If there’s one thing about me, it’s that I’ll always reach for a little black dress—even on the pickleball court.

There’s just something effortlessly chic and timeless about it. It never goes out of style, always looks polished, and let’s be honest, black is famously flattering. It’s an easy win every time.

So when Free People Movement dropped a new little black athletic dress, I knew I had to give it a try.

As luck would have it, I was able to test it out by renting it through Nuuly, a clothing rental service, and it even arrived brand new with the tags still attached.

I went with the baseline dress in black, size small, and found that it fit true to size.

What I like about the FPMovement Baseline Dress:

The dress features a fit-and-flare silhouette that’s universally flattering, and the back cutout adds a playful touch while providing extra breathability for hot summer days.

The layered look is having a moment in athleticwear, and the black-and-white combination offers a subtle, understated way to embrace the trend.

It also comes with built-in shorts, which I love, especially because they’re white to match the faux layered tank on top. The skirt is designed to reveal a hint of the shorts on the sides, creating a cute peekaboo effect.

Another standout is the range of color options, all made with UPF-rated fabric for added sun protection. Always a plus.

Overall, it’s clear this dress was thoughtfully designed, with great construction, comfortable fabric, and stylish details from top to bottom.

What I would change about the FPMovement Baseline Dress:

There are no built-in bra pads, so if you’re playing indoors in air conditioning or prefer a bit more support, this might not be the best option.

The shorts also run on the shorter side. If you have any curves, they can feel a bit cheeky, especially when you’re in a ready position on the court. I found myself having to adjust them throughout to keep everything in place.

Another thing to note: the shorts are attached, so you’ll need to take the entire dress off for bathroom breaks, which isn’t always the most convenient.

The white shorts are slightly see-through as well, so your underwear choice matters. Nude underwear is definitely the safest option unless you want your color choice on full display.

All things considered, this might be better suited for a casual outing like brunch with friends rather than intense pickleball matches. That said, it’s still a flattering, on-trend piece.

As for the $108 price tag, while the quality is there, I couldn’t justify the investment when I didn’t love every detail. In the end, I decided to be practical and return it.

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