I’m always looking for clothes that blend fashion with functionality. As a mom to a 2-year-old son, I’m constantly moving around. So, although I’d like to look chic each time I step out the door, I always need to be comfortable. That’s why you’ll usually find me in sundresses or athleisurewear. But when I saw this cute tennis dress on Amazon, I thought it could offer me the best of both worlds.
Ewedoos Tennis Dress
Colorways: Nine | Sizes: XS-XXL | Fabric: 83% nylon, 17% spandex
There are several colorful styles to choose from, including a baby blue, flamingo pink and a lavender option that are sure to add extra oomph to your summertime wardrobe. With five-star ratings from more than 4,000 shoppers, I knew I had to take this tennis dress for a spin and see if it would ace my “mom-wear” test.
Why I like this dress
The fabric is stretchy and soft
What immediately impressed me was the stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric. Not only is it extremely soft on the skin, but it doesn’t cling to my body the way thicker materials do when you’re sweating in the summer heat. Having breathable fabric is also a huge plus when you’re carrying a toddler around. Plus, I liked how I didn’t have to worry about my son accidentally spilling water on me during any outings, since the material is designed to pull moisture away.
The one thing to keep in mind, however, is that the fabric is thin. While the color of your underwear won’t necessarily peek through the dress (I wore the baby blue tennis dress with black underwear to make sure!), the shape and design will show up. You could see the outline of my underwear as well as the seams along the waistband. So, I’d suggest wearing seamless panties or shapewear underneath.
It's surprisingly supportive
Another detail that I like about the tennis dress is the adjustable crisscross straps. This small, but mighty design element gives me extra support on top as well as some shape. And, as some customers pointed out in their reviews, this comes in handy when nursing since you can easily loosen the straps to lower the top during feedings.
In terms of the style, I love that this tennis dress features an A-line silhouette because it doesn’t look too sporty. You can easily throw on a denim jacket or wrap a sweater around your shoulders for a more elevated look. And with the right accessories, it becomes a versatile piece that can take you from day to night.
It's functional
The dress also has built-in shorts with pockets. While I think this feature is unnecessary (I’m not going to put anything in the pockets because I don't like the bulkiness it creates on the sides), it's there for anyone who appreciates the extra storage for your phone or wallet. The shorts are also not as compressed as I’d like them to be, so they tend to scrunch up when I walk.
What to consider
Contrary to the Amazon listing, which describes this piece as a “workout and athletic dress,” it’s not really fit for, well, fitness. For example, when I did a 20-minute Pilates session at home, I had to take several breaks to readjust the built-in bra. The attached shorts also kept riding up, which made the workout uncomfortable. Constantly fiddling with my attire made me self-conscious, and that’s not the mindset I want to be in when I’m exercising.
However! Despite not being the best workout gear, there is one exercise perk to consider. If you plan on walking — whether around your neighborhood, the zoo, or at a farmers market — then it’ll be the perfect piece to wear when you’re out and about. Again, the stretchy, breathable fabric will keep you cool and comfortable on a hot summer day. I also love that this is an easy outfit to throw on for low-key outdoor activities, like taking your kids to the park or going to a friend’s barbecue. Overall, it’s a great dress for the mom on-the-go.
More tennis dresses to shop
Ododos Cloud Feeling Racerback Tennis Dress
- Lightweight and breathable
- "Cloud-like" softness
- Shorts and built-in bra
Colorways: 10 | Sizes: XS-XL | Fabric: 81% nylon, 19% spandex
Attraco Tennis Dress
- A-line silhouette
- Pull-on design
- Three pockets
Colorways: Seven | Sizes: XS-XL | Fabric: 75% nylon, 25% spandex
Halara Softlyzero™ Plush Backless Active Dress
- Moisture wicking
- Four-way stretch
- Removable shelf bra
Colorways: 20 | Sizes: XS-3X | Fabric: 77% nylon, 23% elastane
GAP GapFit Power Exercise Dress
- Fit and flare silhouette
- Hits above the knee
Colorways: Five | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Fabric: 79% recycled polyester
Abercrombie & Fitch YPB sculptLUX Mini Dress
- Sweat wicking
- Four-way stretch
- Has functional pockets
Colorways: 12 | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Fabric: (Pad Foam) 100% polyurethane (Body) 78% polyester, 22% elastane (Pad Lining) 100% polyester (Lining) 88% polyester, 12% elastane