Cassey Ho's Blog, page 16

Do nipples have beauty standards now, too?

Hey guys!

Leave it to Kim K to shock and confuse the internet… and start some interesting conversations. Last week, she announced her newest SKIMS bra: The Ultimate Nipple Bra. And I was immediately like wait, what?

I seriously thought the announcement was an SNL skit or an April Fool’s joke.

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Kim Kardashian (@kimkardashian)

It’s a push-up bra… with faux nipples

This bra has built-in faux nipples to make it look like you’re bra-less, but also like you still have perfectly round, lifted boobs.

The ad is hilarious (the script was actually written by comedian Michelle Wolf), but it’s not a joke.

As Kim says, “Some days are hard, but these nipples are harder.”

After watching it about 3 times and realizing it was real, I had so many thoughts. First, it’s nothing new for Kim to push the shock factor for the sake of marketing. I LOVE watching it. But there’s something concerning about this that I just can’t shake.

It plays into the body positive, liberating “free the nip” movement, but are we saying that now our real, actually cold nips aren’t good enough? Or is it that our naturally-shaped boobs aren’t desirable enough when there’s no bra to support them, so this bra will make it appear as though you’re not wearing a bra but still have perky, perfectly shaped boobs?

The caption on one of the Skims promo posts literally says, “A faux nipple brings the wow factor while innovative cups fully reshape, augment, and lift your bust.”

Hmm.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SKIMS (@skims)

 

Kim knows how to get people talking

After reading comments and chatting with the Blogifam, feelings are pretty mixed on this. First, we had questions.

“Who’s nipples did they mold to make this happen? ”

“I already have nipples, why do I need extra?”

Some are getting the ick like I did, and some are pointing out the silver linings. Like maybe this bra is helpful for those who have had a mastectomy!  I can get on board with that.

When chatting with the team, the different perspectives were so interesting! And we discovered that something as simple as adding fake nips to a bra unfolds A LOT of layers within body positivity and fashion. Here are some questions I’ve been thinking more deeply about:

Are bras in general problematic? Their original purpose was to provide support and real technical function but beauty standards have weaved their way in over time. There is an “ideal” boob shape according to beauty standards that really isn’t ideal for all boob sizes and body types. Push-up bras are meant for cleavage and some bras have no purpose other than vanity. All of that’s totally acceptable, so maybe the faux nip is acceptable too? Or is it all problematic?

What about shapewear? If we’re going to criticize one undergarment that “enhances” how our bodies appear (the bra), do we need to look at shapewear in the same light? Most of the time we wear shapewear to smooth and cinch certain body parts.

But if it makes you feel better it’s fine, right? OR do we feel better because our bodies look more like how society says they should look?

Where I stand is… wear what makes you happy and makes you feel good. I’m not the Ultimate Nipple Bra’s target audience, but I’m not about to judge anyone who buys and rocks it. BUT I think it’s important to consider WHY you want to purchase and wear it.

And I’m still kinda wondering if this is just a marketing ploy by SKIMS to get people talking. If that’s the case, SKIMS wins, again.

What do you think?!

We must discuss in the comments! What do you think about the Ultimate Nipple Bra?! Is it raising major red flags or are you into it?

 

You asked for lavender! Here’s how it turned out 💜

Hey guys!

I don’t know about you, but for me, what color I choose to wear and what piece of clothing I choose to wear really affects how I feel. Color psychology is a real thing and you should use it to your advantage. Here’s a lil info on colors and consumer purchases:

WHITE can make you feel fresh and clean bc it evokes a sense of youth and modernity.

BLACK gives off a sense of power, luxury, mystery and sexiness, and that’s why you see it in lots of high-end cars.

RED shows boldness and confidence. When you wear it, it will grab attention.

🩵 BLUE evokes a sense of stability and safety, making one seem dependable and trustworthy when they wear it.

YELLOW apparently shows people you’re a happy person and apparently are more willing to take risks compared to the average person.

PINK can be linked to innocence, sweetness, hope and optimism. It evokes a feeling of femininity and kindness.

PURPLE can inspire creativity and spark new ideas. It’s also historically a color reserved for the royals so it can be linked back to power.

🪻 LAVENDER can encourage calmness and tranquility of the mind as it’s associated with healing, relaxation, cleanliness, and purity.

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

Thank you for suggesting the color of my latest POPFLEX Digital Lavender color drop! I love when you guys get super excited about something because your enthusiasm pushes me to want to do it even more!

SHOP DIGITAL LAVENDER

 

I now identify as Ube.

PS…here is what I am wearing in order – I am 5’5”!

1. Pirouette skort (S) with Flexy Crop (S)
2. Cloud Hoodie (S/M)
3. Ruffle bra (XS) with Twirl Skort (S)
4. Corset bra (XS) with Pirouette skort (S)
5. Celeste Mesh Cami (S) with Twirl skort (S)
6. Go with the Bow High Pony Hat (S/M)

Is it Bad to Drink Coffee on an Empty Stomach?

One thing about me is that I drink a cup of coffee before I do anything else in the morning. And sometimes…I’m drinking it on an empty stomach.

Don’t come for me! I never claimed to be perfect. Besides, I’m not doing it on purpose – I am DEFINITELY a breakfast girly. I’ve just fallen into a habit of drinking coffee while I work before my kids wake up (read: while it’s quiet).

I’ve seen Instagram posts and TikToks denouncing coffee without food, claiming I’ll ruin my hormones, derail my blood sugar, and spiral into anxiety. But is drinking coffee on an empty stomach actually bad? Let’s find out.

Coffee and digestion

We all know the joke about running to the bathroom after finishing a morning cup of coffee. Not everyone experiences something quite THAT dramatic, but coffee can have a serious impact on your digestive system.

Coffee stimulates stomach acid and bile production and gets the intestines moving. The increase in stomach acid could aggravate symptoms for people with GERD. Some researchers hypothesize that drinking coffee regularly lowers the pressure of the sphincter in your esophagus, causing reflux.

Fun fact: Coffee is so good at stimulating the intestines that researchers call it a low-cost method to prevent intestinal paralysis following abdominal surgery.

Coffee and anxiety

Sometimes I feel like I’m literally about to lift off after I drink coffee. It’s not a feeling of productive energy (although that would be much more ideal). It’s anxious energy. So at least for me personally, this claim seems to be true.

Caffeine is a stimulant, which means it increases activity in the nervous system and increases the circulation of chemicals like cortisol, a stress hormone.

While it has some positive effects like improved cognitive function, it may also increase symptoms of anxiety for people diagnosed with anxiety and panic disorder. Caffeine binds to certain adenosine receptors that help regulate neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which could contribute to anxiety symptoms.

Hormones

Is drinking coffee on an empty stomach wrecking your hormones? What does that even mean?

Some experts say that caffeine could affect estrogen and progesterone levels, especially for those diagnosed with hormonal disorders such as PCOS. An imbalance of these hormones could cause heavy periods, skin issues, fatigue, and more.

Caffeine also increases cortisol circulation, which could increase long-term inflammation. More research is needed to say for sure if coffee causes a long-term cortisol increase, or any related effects. One randomized trial found that caffeine affects cortisol differently between men and women (and women are far less researched) and that caffeine did not increase cortisol as much in the absence of stress.

While avoiding coffee on an empty stomach may help slow the absorption of caffeine, it may be more important to consider how much caffeine you’re ingesting per day.

Not all coffee is the same

Remember, there are a lot of different types of coffee: Drip, French press, instant, espresso, etc. An 8-oz cup of traditional brewed coffee has an average of 95mg caffeine, while a 7.7 oz coffee pod in my Nespresso has closer to 200mg (explains the feeling of lifting off when I drink it).

On the same note, drinking an Americano with no milk or sweetener may affect you differently than a fully sweetened PSL made with whole milk.

If you’re noticing negative side effects after drinking coffee, start paying attention to the type you drink. It might be easier than you think to alter what you’re drinking or simply add to it instead of giving it up completely.

It might help to eat (or drink) something

If you just don’t feel great after drinking coffee on an empty stomach, you’re feeling anxious, experiencing insomnia, or you notice your energy levels dropping mid-morning, there are a few things you can try. Of course, you could try half-caff or even forgo coffee altogether. But if you’re not ready to part with your morning cup, you can try pairing it with food.

Try eating breakfast before you drink coffee

You might notice a real difference in how you feel by simply eating breakfast before you drink coffee. Or, at least eat while you sip. Here are some light, easy ideas for what to eat.

Toast with peanut butter or avocadoHardboiled eggsYogurt with granola (we love this recipe)Fresh fruitCheeseProtein pancakes

 

Eating before you finish a cup of coffee may also help you pack in more nutrition for the day. For many of us, caffeine suppresses the appetite and as a result, you may sacrifice a nutritious, protein-rich breakfast by drinking coffee first. This may seem like NBD, but skipping an entire meal can have a major impact on your daily intake. So keep that in mind!

Easy add-ins for your morning coffee

If eating a full breakfast is just not happening and you’re noticing increased anxiety or an energy crash not long after your coffee, it might be worth experimenting with easy add-ins to slow the absorption of caffeine.

Here are some ideas to give your coffee a little “oomph” if you’re skipping breakfast. These mix-ins may help curb some digestive side effects of coffee, avoid blood sugar crashes, and (my fav) provide a little extra nutrition.

Milk – Depending on the type, this can add protein and fat to slow caffeine absorption and keep you full.Protein – Add a scoop of powder or use your favorite premade shake as a yummy creamer.Collagen – Some people prefer to use collage peptides instead of protein powder! Collagen is often flavorless and undetectable in coffee.Coconut oil – Not my favorite, but one way to add healthy fats into your morning.Turn your coffee into a smoothie – If you’re into cold coffee, blend it with a frozen banana and some protein for a creamy, tasty shake.

 

Is it bad to drink coffee on an empty stomach?

I’m going to give you everyone’s favorite answer: It depends!

Some people may be more sensitive to the effects of coffee on an empty stomach. If you start your day with coffee and notice that you don’t feel great, try adding some food and see how you feel! And as always, work with your healthcare provider and/or dietitian to figure out what’s best for you.

 

Is it Actually Bad to Drink Coffee on an Empty Stomach?

One thing about me is that I drink a cup of coffee before I do anything else in the morning. And sometimes…I’m drinking it on an empty stomach.

Don’t come for me! I never claimed to be perfect. Besides, I’m not doing it on purpose – I am DEFINITELY a breakfast girly. I’ve just fallen into a habit of drinking coffee while I work before my kids wake up (read: while it’s quiet).

I’ve seen Instagram posts and TikToks denouncing coffee without food, claiming I’ll ruin my hormones, derail my blood sugar, and spiral into anxiety. But is drinking coffee on an empty stomach actually bad? Let’s find out.

Coffee and digestion

We all know the joke about running to the bathroom after finishing a morning cup of coffee. Not everyone experiences something quite THAT dramatic, but coffee can have a serious impact on your digestive system.

Coffee stimulates stomach acid and bile production and gets the intestines moving. The increase in stomach acid could aggravate symptoms for people with GERD. Some researchers hypothesize that drinking coffee regularly lowers the pressure of the sphincter in your esophagus, causing reflux.

Fun fact: Coffee is so good at stimulating the intestines that researchers call it a low-cost method to prevent intestinal paralysis following abdominal surgery.

Coffee and anxiety

Sometimes I feel like I’m literally about to lift off after I drink coffee. It’s not a feeling of productive energy (although that would be much more ideal). It’s anxious energy. So at least for me personally, this claim seems to be true.

Caffeine is a stimulant, which means it increases activity in the nervous system and increases the circulation of chemicals like cortisol, a stress hormone.

While it has some positive effects like improved cognitive function, it may also increase symptoms of anxiety for people diagnosed with anxiety and panic disorder. Caffeine binds to certain adenosine receptors that help regulate neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which could contribute to anxiety symptoms.

Hormones

Is drinking coffee on an empty stomach wrecking your hormones? What does that even mean?

Some experts say that caffeine could affect estrogen and progesterone levels, especially for those diagnosed with hormonal disorders such as PCOS. An imbalance of these hormones could cause heavy periods, skin issues, fatigue, and more.

Caffeine also increases cortisol circulation, which could increase long-term inflammation. More research is needed to say for sure if coffee causes a long-term cortisol increase, or any related effects. One randomized trial found that caffeine affects cortisol differently between men and women (and women are far less researched) and that caffeine did not increase cortisol as much in the absence of stress.

While avoiding coffee on an empty stomach may help slow the absorption of caffeine, it may be more important to consider how much caffeine you’re ingesting per day.

Not all coffee is the same

Remember, there are a lot of different types of coffee: Drip, French press, instant, espresso, etc. An 8-oz cup of traditional brewed coffee has an average of 95mg caffeine, while a 7.7 oz coffee pod in my Nespresso has closer to 200mg (explains the feeling of lifting off when I drink it).

On the same note, drinking an Americano with no milk or sweetener may affect you differently than a fully sweetened PSL made with whole milk.

If you’re noticing negative side effects after drinking coffee, start paying attention to the type you drink. It might be easier than you think to alter what you’re drinking or simply add to it instead of giving it up completely.

It might help to eat (or drink) something

If you just don’t feel great after drinking coffee on an empty stomach, you’re feeling anxious, experiencing insomnia, or you notice your energy levels dropping mid-morning, there are a few things you can try. Of course, you could try half-caff or even forgo coffee altogether. But if you’re not ready to part with your morning cup, you can try pairing it with food.

Try eating breakfast before you drink coffee

You might notice a real difference in how you feel by simply eating breakfast before you drink coffee. Or, at least eat while you sip. Here are some light, easy ideas for what to eat.

Toast with peanut butter or avocadoHardboiled eggsYogurt with granola (we love this recipe)Fresh fruitCheeseProtein pancakes

 

Eating before you finish a cup of coffee may also help you pack in more nutrition for the day. For many of us, caffeine suppresses the appetite and as a result, you may sacrifice a nutritious, protein-rich breakfast by drinking coffee first. This may seem like NBD, but skipping an entire meal can have a major impact on your daily intake. So keep that in mind!

Easy add-ins for your morning coffee

If eating a full breakfast is just not happening and you’re noticing increased anxiety or an energy crash not long after your coffee, it might be worth experimenting with easy add-ins to slow the absorption of caffeine.

Here are some ideas to give your coffee a little “oomph” if you’re skipping breakfast. These mix-ins may help curb some digestive side effects of coffee, avoid blood sugar crashes, and (my fav) provide a little extra nutrition.

Milk – Depending on the type, this can add protein and fat to slow caffeine absorption and keep you full.Protein – Add a scoop of powder or use your favorite premade shake as a yummy creamer.Collagen – Some people prefer to use collage peptides instead of protein powder! Collagen is often flavorless and undetectable in coffee.Coconut oil – Not my favorite, but one way to add healthy fats into your morning.Turn your coffee into a smoothie – If you’re into cold coffee, blend it with a frozen banana and some protein for a creamy, tasty shake.

 

Is it bad to drink coffee on an empty stomach?

I’m going to give you everyone’s favorite answer: It depends!

Some people may be more sensitive to the effects of coffee on an empty stomach. If you start your day with coffee and notice that you don’t feel great, try adding some food and see how you feel! And as always, work with your healthcare provider and/or dietitian to figure out what’s best for you.

 

THIS is a hoodie that hoodies.

This hoodie hoodies harder than all the hoodies that have ever hoodies. Do you know what I mean? Because I know you know what I mean.

The POPFLEX  Cloud Hoodie  is the best-selling thing in my entire lineup of designs. It’s a classic that has withstood the test of time since I first released it 3 years ago.

And since it’s getting cold again, time to show you why I wear this EVERYDAY.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

SHOP HOODIES

Hoodie non-negotiables

This is why the Cloud Hoodie hoodies harder than any other hoodie.

It’s oversized and only fitted in the right places, so it gives an shape.
The cloud fabric is seriously so luxurious and substantial. Trust.
The hood is huge. It’s giving storybook princess running through an enchanted forest.
New! I improved the Cloud Hoodie by adding stoppers so you won’t lose your strings in the wash!
Comes in XXS/XS to 1X/3X

The Cloud Hoodie

I’m wearing the Cloud Hoodie in Size S/M and am 5’5”. It is already very oversized so you really don’t need to size up unless you wanna be drowning in it which is a vibe too.

If you feel this is “too cropped,” give the Long Cloud Hoodie a try! Last year after getting feedback, I added extra length for those wanting more coverage, so hopefully that works for you!

You can see this on different-sized models on my site. And yes I ship worldwide

 

Easy Barbie Costume Idea!

Hey guys!

If you’re searching last min for a Halloween costume, here’s an easy Barbie costume idea!

I’ve been hearing so many of you guys asking for pink things! I hear you, and I’m so excited to share with you my latest color drop: Bubblegum!

I carefully selected your favorite POPFLEX pieces and pinkified them – hopefully I chose enough to satisfy your ’s desire!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

I’m wearing the Twirl Dress here in size XS (I’m 5’5” and normally S) – personally I like my dresses extra snatchy! But I would recommend you get your regular size. Comes in xxs to 3x and in multiple colors!

BUBBLEGUM TWIRL DRESS

 

 

Complete the look!

You asked for links for accessories to complete the Barbie costume, so here you go! You can get everything on Amazon!

Sunglasses

Pom Pom Earrings

Shoes

Hair Bow

 

You can find more Barbie outfit inspo here!

 

Revealing my new designs at Target!!

Hey guys!

Today we’re going shopping because I dropped some new, super cute designs at Target and cannot believe we haven’t talked about them yet?!

It’s crazy how after 3 years and countless Target visits, I still feel anxious (in a good way) when I walk through the store to the fitness section. Seeing new products join the display will never get old!

And yes, I still tidy up the shelves to make everything look pretty every single time.

Anyway.

Here’s what’s new from Blogilates x Target!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

SHOP BLOGILATES AT TARGET

Water Bottle Bag

WE LOVE POCKETS.

This bag has 3 (one on the front and two on the side) so you can carry your water and the essentials in one bag. It has a crossbody strap too, so it’s perfect for long walks and hikes, but also for running errands when you need to be hands-free.

Oh, and it’s insulated! Gotta keep that water cold.

SHOP WATER BOTTLE BAG

Half Gallon Timer Bottle

The perfect bottle for your bag! It holds half a gallon of water and has little markers to help you stay on track to hydrate all day.

I also added a little strap for easy carrying if you’re not using a water bottle bag!

SHOP HALF GALLON TIMER BOTTLE

Black High Ponytail Cap

Yay now you can get the High Pony Cap in black! This hat is a perfect example of something I designed to solve a problem. The problem? Founding Father hair. EW.

I used to avoid hats because I had to either shove a ponytail through the hole that’s always a super awkward height or do a low pony. SOO I went on a mission to design a hat that works with a high or low pony.

She’s essential. Trust.

SHOP BLACK HIGH PONYTAIL CAP

 

3-in-1 Toning Tubes

Your workout is about to get spicy.

The tubes in this set are interchangeable, meaning you can make them as light or as heavy as you want. And omg the gold hardware?! Love!

SHOP TONING TUBES

Ultimate Toning Tube Kit

Booty toning bands.

This set comes with 5 resistance tubes, soft squishy handles so you can work your upper body comfortably, and ankle weights to work your booty. You can seriously make so many combinations with this little set and it’s super travel-friendly.

My favorite thing in this set is the door anchor! You just put it behind your door and then. you can do leg extensions like you would with a cable machine!

Glutes on FIREEE.

SHOP TONING TUBE KIT

Foam Roller with Ridges

I love foam rolling to loosen up tight muscles and help with soreness after a tough workout… but I also lowkey hate it because it’s kind of uncomfy while I’m doing it. Totally worth it though.

I made this foam roller with little ridges to make it even more intense. Ahh it’s gonna hurt so good! If you have tight hips or shoulders or just want to level up your recovery, you need this.

SHOP FOAM ROLLER

 

Black Gym Bag

You wanted the gym bag in black and now it’s HERE!

She’s sleek and she’s functional, with a shoe compartment, yoga mat holder, and multiple pockets inside and outside to carry your water bottle, snacks, keys, and anything else you need. The bags usually go quick, so you’ll have to lmk if you see one in your store!!

SHOP GYM BAG

 

Terrazzo Gym Flooring

This isn’t new-new, but it’s back at a lower price and that is a reason to celebrate! I love this flooring so much. It adds a lil cushion for your joints, it locks together so you can add as many as you need to fit your space, and it’s SO PRETTY.

Shop Terrazzo Flooring

 

Tell me if you’ve seen the new drop at your local Target! I’m always curious what it looks like at your store! Btw if you don’t see it on the shelves check the site! I see that the high pony cap and the ultimate bands kit are still in stock there!

A moment for genuine friendship…and the jumpsuit

Hey guys!

A moment for this jumpsuit.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

Or rather 3 moments because me, Hope, and Mindy all showed up to speak at VidSummit wearing the POPFLEX Go with the Flow Jumpsuit without planning it and I was like ! It means so much to me when friends genuinely support one another because I’ve been in insincere “friendships” where your worth is based on certain numerical values or how “popular” you are. It is disgusting, dehumanizing and the reason why I have such bad social anxiety.

I’ll never forget the time someone didn’t bother to even look at me when I said hi to them, and then when they overheard who I was (eew) and looked me up (double eew) they changed their attitude 180 and tried to be my friend (eew x 1000). Then on the flip side, I’ve been made to realize how I no longer matter to someone by accidentally finding out during a dinner conversation with the entire friend group that I was the only one not invited to the party. And to be clear, things like this aren’t of the past. The latter literally happened last week.

Growing up I was never popular so I’ve always been hyper-aware of my station in social hierarchies. I wish I wasn’t affected by such things (as I myself do not care for fame, followers or money – to me these things are simply the side effects of building what you love), however when others judge me for it or rather the lack of it, I can’t help but be entirely engulfed by the feeling of worthlessness.

SHOP JUMPSUITS

Anyway, don’t worry, for the most part, this year has been good to me. I’ve been so fortunate to have crossed paths with kind people who reciprocate the same affection and respect I have for them. Thank you to the real ones for the deep belly laughs and the ugly cry sessions – your friendship heals my heart with trust and fills it up with so much love.

Wow, this post really went from jumpsuits to unwinding some serious social trauma didn’t it? Thanks for listening!

Turned the Pirouette Skort into a party dress!

Hey guys!

It took 1 year, 8 months, and 5 days to turn the Pirouette Skort into a Pirouette Dress. I’m so proud of how she turned out because SHE IS VERSATILE.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

Like NOT ONLY will you be the queen of the courts , but you’ll also be the belle of the (disco) ball . Like literally HOW is it working with tennis shoes AND with heels!? I dunno. It’s magic I guess.

SHOP DRESSES

I’m looking back on this year and I feel so happy to know that you guys are willing to trust me and POPFLEX as we inch into new categories. As an activewear brand, it was a risk to get into swimwear…but you guys ATE IT UP this past summer. Then you allowed me to test out “Active Casual” and omgggg I’m so so thrilled you are loving the jumpsuit as much as I do!

And in my heart, I’ve always wanted to get into dresses and cute things you can wear to the special events and parties in your lives…so today I’m giddy to share with you my first ever performance party wear – I’m calling this category “Active Party.”

I don’t know about you but when I’m on the dance floor I want to dance, get picked up, kick up my legs and not worry at all about my underwear showing! So this dress lets me twirl my heart out and it makes me soooo happy!

The Pirouette Dress comes in XXS to 3X and I’m wearing XS (I’m 5’5”).

Let me know if you have annyyyy questions!

SHOP DRESSES

Why women are obsessed with pockets

Hey guys!

Have you ever wondered why pockets are so special to us? To women specifically. Buckle up – it’s time for a history lesson!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

The tea on pockets

The lack of pockets in women’s clothing is more than just annoying – it’s actually a sexist and political women’s rights issue that dates back centuries.

Traditionally throughout history, women stayed at home while the men worked outside. Since men were the ones who carried all the $, paperwork, and the keys to and from the house, tailors thought they were the only ones who needed practicality in their apparel.

So what did women do?

They had to tuck their handbags under the poof in their dresses! (Smart! We love a hidden pocket!) Except back then a pocket under a skirt had fatal implications. During the 16th & 17th century witch hunts, women who were burned at the stake for “being witches” were also accused of smuggling herbs, potions, and poisons in their, you guessed it, hidden pockets.

Women were banned from having pockets

Then during the French Revolution, women were banned from having pockets because they were seen as a secret way to hide revolutionary material! The idea was that if we take pockets away from women, we could take away their participation in politics too!

At the beginning of the 17th century (think corsets and bustles), hidden pockets didn’t work anymore because you’d have to basically get undressed in public to access your belongings. Therefore, tie-on style “pockets” (aka mini pouches aka purses) were introduced.

Fast fwd to the Victorian era.

Women’s fashion was focused on tiny waists and looking ornate & delicate. Pockets were deemed too bulky bc they detracted from a woman’s figure, so this time around, pockets simply were not in style. Eventually, during the women’s suffrage movement, pockets actually became a symbol of women’s rights!

In 1954, Christian Dior cemented the patriarchy of pockets by saying “Men have pockets to keep things in, women for decoration.” So that explains the superficial pocket stitchings on my middle school jeans and the super shallow pockets that I could never fit anything in.

No wonder that in 2023 women still get excited over pockets! We’ve been denied them for centuries! I’m gonna keep celebrating my love of pockets not only bc they’re functional but bc they’re also a symbol of our autonomy & freedom.

POPFLEX LOVES POCKETS