Cassey Ho's Blog, page 24

Finding Joy in Fitness Helped Undo My Teenage Body Image Issues

Like so many others, my journey with body image wasn’t always easy. At times, it was incredibly hard to find anything I even liked about how I looked. With the new POPFLEX swim release, Cassey shared a piece of her own self-image journey and her relationship with swimwear. Her openness inspired me to share my own story. 

Especially since it’s how I found Blogilates. And eventually, myself. 

Although we all have our own struggles, I hope these stories shared in the Blogilates community resonate and help you know that if you struggle with body image, you are not alone. 

Trigger Warning: This story is about my personal experience with body image issues. If you are going through this struggle currently, you may not be in a good mental place to read this article. If this sounds like you, we recommend that you seek the help of a mental health professional. You deserve to be loved. That includes love from yourself.

Body image issues start young

In fifth grade, I remember staring at a picture from a friend’s birthday party and thinking, “Wow, I hate how I look.” I wish I could go back in time and tell my younger self that what you look like doesn’t determine your worth. But of course, it was different then. 

The early 2010s were the era of skinny-chic and fat shaming. The Disney Channel stars I idolized were bone-thin. When they weren’t, these teenage actors were shamed horribly by the industry. 

My love of fashion started young, but it was clear that to be in the industry, you had to be beautiful. At this time, that meant you had to be model-thin. I thought that I couldn’t be into fashion if I didn’t look like a fashion person. (Which news flash, even “fashion people” don’t really look like that IRL; thanks, airbrushed magazine covers ).

To start getting “in shape,” I started dancing. But, as much as I loved movement and performing, the dance industry was just as toxic. At the ripe age of 12 years old, I had to face the reality that the two things I loved most had one thing in common; they unofficially had a maximum weight requirement. 

The weight loss journey begins

In my late middle school and early high school years, I spent extensive hours searching for “dancer body workouts” and “model fitness routines.” 

I wanted to look like the girls who were successful at what I wanted to be good at because I thought that was the only way to get there. 

I associated my success in fashion and dance with what I looked like because everyone who was respected and well-known in those industries looked a certain way. 

As a freshman in high school, I discovered Blogilates when I searched “Victoria’s Secret Workout” on YouTube and found an ab workout video from Cassey’s early days of social media. 

Cassey’s videos really opened the door to the world of YouTube fitness. At first, it was a spiral. I was doing the right thing for my body, but for the wrong reasons and at the wrong time. I went from being the non-athletic friend to obsessively working out in my basement. 

Through it all, I found that Cassey’s positivity in her videos made my closeted workout sessions less of a form of self-punishment and more of an enjoyable way to move my body. It was like chatting with a friend at the gym.

By doing Pilates, I found joy in movement that was dance-inspired.

It became a way to build the foundation for a more positive relationship with exercise, instead of suffering through HIIT workouts that I absolutely loathed, but did anyway because I thought it would burn the most calories. 

Better yet, I was able to see how Cassey’s fitness journey changed over the years. I saw that she had gone through a similar journey; the ups and downs that all of us have felt. It was comforting to see acknowledgment that even fitness professionals with a huge platform have the same struggles as those who follow them. 

We were going through it together. I wasn’t alone.

Fast forward to today

Now I’m a contributing writer for Blogilates, helping to create a positive narrative around wellness that I wish I’d found earlier. I’m a fitness instructor who takes plenty of rest days. I don’t feel guilty when I eat an entire Costco muffin in one sitting (even if I didn’t work out that day). 

It took a lot of work to get here. 

But it gets easier. Every. Single. Day. 

After years of recovery, reflection, and practicing self-love, I found balance. Now I use movement not to make my body look a certain way, but to feel my best. I have a body-neutral approach, meaning I acknowledge that it’s okay to not like what my body looks like all the time because my physical appearance is such a small part of who I am.

It also really helps that unlike in the early 2010s, the fashion industry has gotten a lot more diverse. (The dance industry has too, to an extent. But there’s still a lot of progress to be made on both fronts). 

I am so grateful for those who have paved the way when it comes to rejecting the concept that beauty, grace, and success have a particular look.

How it started vs. how it’s going

I found Blogilates because I didn’t like my body. I stayed because, through Cassey’s infectiously kind and friendly personality, I was finally able to find joy in movement. 

I hope the same for all of you. The Blogilates community is here for you and is a safe space to share your stories! We hope you feel the love (from us, and from yourself) .

 

How Do You Measure Your Bra Size at Home? Let’s Learn Together.

I’m going to be 100% honest with you. I never wear regular bras with cups. I stick to sports bras. Why? You might ask. Simply put: they never fit my body correctly. Look, I can’t even blame a specific brand because the truth is… I have NO idea how to measure myself to even buy the correct size (gotta love “oh this looks big enough” shopping). 

As of Summer 2023, that stops. 

I had to call my best connect for all things fashion-fitting advice and for once, it’s not my mother. Friend, I got the tips and tricks to finding the perfect fit-like-a-glove bra from none other than Jennifer Johnson – Design Director at POPFLEX. 

Signs of a Poor Fitting Bra

I told you I’m going to be 100% honest with you… if you look like the image above when you slip into your bra… it’s not fitting you properly. 

 

I know I know. When Jennifer ever-so-politely dropped knowledge on signs of a poor fitting bra, I sat there jotting down notes but not for you… for ME. With my right boob popping out of the top of my bra and my bra band halfway up my back begging for me to take it off, I felt so… seen. BUT this is the beauty of fashion education. You (cry a little) live and learn. 

Here’s what to look out for:Boob spillage Wrinkly cupsThe bottom band should be leveled, which can be done by tightening or loosening the strapsThe back band should not be super high and should rest comfortably on your mid-back You should not be able to stick more than 1 finger under the bottom band. If you can, this means it’s too loose! Bra straps sliding off (you want a secure fit) 

 

How to Measure Your Bra Size

We have to learn at some point. Let’s get into it. 

Step 1: Grab a soft measuring tape. 

And I know you better not go into your closet and get that super hard measuring tape from the hardware store. Emphasis on soft, friend. A soft measuring tape (or tailor’s tape) is designed to be super flexible so you can loop it around your body easily and THAT is juuuust what you need. 

 ”Stand in front of a mirror while measuring so that you can ensure that the measuring tape is level. If it’s too high or too low, you’re not going to get an accurate read.  Let it be snug.” – Jennifer.

 

Step 2: Discover your band size.

For this step, you need your boobs to be relaxed and not pushed up in any way so you have 2 options: go braless or, make sure you’re wearing a non-push-up/non-supportive bra. 

Part 1:Wrap the measuring tape around your torso and place it directly under your bust (directly underneath your boobs).

Remember what Jennifer said: the tape should be level and snug (not tight).

Part 2: Got your number? Perfect. Now… this part is important:

Is the number even? If so, add 4 inches to your measurement. 

Is the number odd? If so, add 5 inches to your measurement. 

For example, my measurement read 39.” 

39 + 5 = 44

My band size is 44. 

 

Step 3: Discover your bust measurement

Part 1: Wrap the measuring tape around your back, under your arms, and around the fullest part of your chest.

Remember: level and snug (not tight).

Part 2: Got your measurement? Beautiful. Now round to the nearest whole number. 

 

Step 4: Find your cup size

Bust size – Band size = Bra Size 

I was never good at math so, I’ll keep this simple for you. 

Part 1: Subtract your measurement from Step 1 (band size) from your measurement from Step 2 (bust size). 

Part 2: Take your answer, and refer to the size chart above to calculate your cup size. 

Ok, I’ll go first. My bust size is 46 and my band size 44. Let’s do this. 

46-44 = 2 inches 

This means my cup size is a B. I am a 44B. 

Friend… we did it. We found our bra size!!!

Myth Bust-ers

Let’s be real: there is NOTHINGGGGG more frustrating than finding something super cute like to the point where you’re literally itching to add it to your cart just to find out… it’s sold out in your size. 

True or false: Sister sizing exists with bras (aka your boobs can fit into different cup sizes).

TRUE!  

“You actually can size up or down depending on what is comfortable for you and what works best for your body.” – Jennifer

When Jennifer told me this, I was sooo happy. A rule of thumb is to move up or down by 1 band or cup size depending on the brand. 

“Every brand has their own “fit” it can be really trial and error for you to find what works best for you.” – Jennifer 

So basically, If I’m doing what I do best (cough, shopping) and a specific bra isn’t comfortable on my body because of the cut and I grabbed my normal size (44B), my next move would be to try a 46A for more room or, a 42C for less room. 

Ok bra knowledge!!! 

Knowledge is Power

The edu is poking through, no pun intended. I don’t know about you guys but there’s something so empowering about knowing how to shop for YOUR body. 

Personally, being plus size, there is a certain amount of trauma that follows me through the mall:

Will my size be available?

Is there even anything cute in my size? Nope, the store doesn’t carry it. 

YES! The button is clasped….but can I sit and function in this? 

Don’t get me wrong, it’s great to have certain tried-and-true products under my belt that I can be truly comfortable in and also FEEL good in. But as they say, knowledge is power – knowing my body and what works for MY specific lumps, bumps, and curves is so so important when trying to reclaim that traumatic story. That’s something I not only want to experience, but I want for you too. You deserve it . 

Alright, now that I finally know bra size, guys I need recs. What’s your favorite comfy bra?

My first Cannes Lions Festival… and a trip to prison?

Hey guys!

A quick (but arduous) trip to the South of France for my first Cannes Lions Festival! As excited as I was to be invited to share my creator journey on stage, I was slightly more thrilled to visit the original prison cell of the man in the iron mask.

I’m a huge history freak and spent the past few years learning about 15th, 16th, and 17th-century European royalty bc I love rich people drama (only accurate drama please) and I also lovvveeee historical fashion.

Let’s just say when I told people where we were going they just smiled confusingly, and said “oh, that’s interesting.” (Sam also thought it was “interesting” and was v reluctant to go but I forced him).

You can’t see the excitement on my face bc how does one pose in a prison cell, but it was cool to physically step into a part of history!

Because every hotel room was booked in the city due to the festival, we could only find housing in the outskirts. At first I was sad, but it turned out to be a blessing. We found this cute little bed & breakfast chateau called Les Rosees that made me feel like a storybook character!

Every morning I was woken by the sounds of birds singing. It was def giving Snow White.

 

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Shop My Swimsuit!

Also got to take my POPFLEX Boardwalk Bombshell one-piece on a lil swim just days before launch! If you saw my stories, you could see how well it stays on! I’m wearing S (A-C cup).

Thanks Raptive for having me in Cannes!

 

A strapless bikini top that won’t fall off?!

Hey guys!

A strapless bikini top that doesn’t fall off??

Yes.

I’ve had NUMEROUS occasions where my bikini has come totally undone while going down a slide, while diving, while snorkeling, while swimming or just by being hit by a wave! And the terrible part is that some of these bikinis actually had straps .

So, it’s time to make an anti-slip strapless bikini top happen. It took 2 years to develop but we’re here! We’re FINALLY here! And here’s how it works:

 

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Dual layer inner shelf bra helps keep your bbs in place
Faux boning on sides for structure and to help keep the fabric from rolling off your body
Corset-inspired lace-up back for infinite adjustable (tighten until you feel secure)
Removable straps that you can wear multiple ways
Removable pads (if you don’t need the extra padding, go ahead and remove it bc all the layers will cover the nipplage)
XXS-3X

Shop Sandbar Strapless

I’m wearing the S! If you’re afraid your bbs may need extra coverage, go ahead and size up by one.

I hope you love this top! It’s seriously my favorite for tanning and for being active!

Also thank you for all the love on my first ever swim launch!

This was an experiment for me and I wasn’t sure if this could be a forever category but looks like it will be . So many things have sold out already and unfortunately won’t be back til next summer. Think of it as POPFLEX’s yearly McRib drop .

Shop POPFLEX Swim

 

 

The Blogilates July 2023 Workout Calendar!!

Hey guys!

Do you have any exciting plans for 4th of July weekend?! Maybe a cookout or a pool day?

It’s crazy because I keep seeing all of these “end of the season” sales and it’s like wait… summer JUST started! I’m still obsessing over my new swimwear – not ready to go into fall mode yet! Still shopping those sales though.

This weekend kicks off a new month, which also means a new workout calendar!! So here it is…

Your July Workout Calendar!!

We’re just heating up!

Download JPEG

How to follow the July Workout Calendar

Check the Blogilates YouTube playlists to find all of the videos you need for this month’s calendar!!

OR you can get everything you need (and more motivational tools!) on the BODY By Blogilates app! If you don’t have the app yet, it will make following along with this month’s workouts easier! You can access not only the calendar but all of the videos in one place. Find challenges and free programs like the Glow Up Sessions and the 200 Ab Challenge there too!

Now that you know where to find your workouts, here’s what you can expect each day of the July Workout Calendar. You ready?!!!

SUNDAY: Recovery
MONDAY: Total Body
TUESDAY: Abs
WEDNESDAY: Booty
THURSDAY: Total Body
FRIDAY: Arms
SATURDAY: Legs & Thighs

Do each video once (unless otherwise stated) and check off as you go! Most days will be 45 min max of exercise.

If you get the BODY By Blogilates app, your workout calendar and workouts will all be in one place! And it’s so fun and motivating to get that “Workout Complete” checkmark

Speaking of the app!

The Blogilates community is the BEST. So, I wanted to create a space where we could all feel a little more connected to each other! The social feature (in the most updated version of the app) is a place where you can share photos and/or text thoughts and comment on each other’s post. Think the good ol’ days of Instagram!

ANNNND

We just added PPCYCLE, a place where you can list and shop for gently used POPFLEX and Blogilates items! You can read more about it here!

If you're just getting started...

Or want to ease into working out, my Beginner’s Calendar is a great place to start! It’s a free 4-week program to get you stronger so that you can join in on the monthlies when you are ready.

Want MORE?! Take on a challenge

BTW how did it go with the 100 Arms Challenge in June?!! I hope you’re feeling strong!! You can do this one any time, or repeat whenever.

Deets about the July Challenge will be coming soon!

Time to check in!

Let me know you’re IN for this month’s calendar, and tell me about your fun July plans!!

How to Pack A Travel Capsule Wardrobe

One of the biggest challenges with traveling is balancing feeling comfortable and feeling like you’re putting your best self forward into the world. We want to be relaxed, but presentable. Cozy, but beautiful. 

After all, how we dress reflects how we feel and how we want the world to see us. And when you’re restricted to one checked bag (or maybe just a carry-on), it’s hard to imagine how to be all of these things when your luggage space is so limited.

Enter, the Capsule Wardrobe

Capsule wardrobes have been around since the 70s, but the trend circled back around in recent years. This term to describes the act of building a wardrobe full of a limited number of versatile, quality items that can be mixed and matched to make a plethora of outfit options. 

Not only is a capsule wardrobe a sustainable and affordable approach to fashion, but it also saves space! This is why the capsule wardrobe approach is not only a great mindset for your everyday closet (goodbye, overconsumption!) but also the perfect method for packing your travel essentials.

Why it Works

When you’re limited to a certain amount of space, the key is versatility. Pieces that you can layer, wear again and again, and dress up or down. 

The capsule wardrobe method encourages choosing items that can be mixed and matched, meaning the colors and materials of each item complement each other. Creativity is key when it comes to making new, exciting outfit combinations. 

This approach will help you see your closet in a whole new light. From the airport to sightseeing to nightlife, building a capsule wardrobe will take you wherever your heart desires during your travels.

Travel Capsule Wardrobe Essentials

How you build your travel capsule is up to you! Of course, it will depend on your destination, the time of year that you travel, and what activities you plan to do once you arrive. This guide will help you get started. Don’t feel like you need to follow it to a T, but use it as a reference point for pieces to include in your packing list.

Corset Bra | SuperShort | Cloud Hoodie | Crisscross Hourglass Bell Bottoms

Travel Set

Limited luggage space often means you’re tempted to leave the sweatpants at home. I’m a firm believer in function over fashion for travel days, especially if you’re in for a long car ride or hours-long layovers.

My recommendation is to bring a travel set, a pair of comfortable leggings or shorts with a sports bra, layered under your favorite sweatshirt. (I find that my personal favorite option is a one-piece.) Make sure to use pieces that are thin (i.e., no bulky sweatpants) and can be rolled up small to fit in your luggage later. Bonus points if your travel set can double as a workout set if you feel the need to get physical and do some vacation-friendly workouts during your trip!

Neutral T-Shirt

When you hear “t-shirt”, your mind might immediately think “boring”. But that’s not the case! Including a basic shirt in a neutral color means that you can mix and match it with almost anything, including any extra statement pieces you plan to bring with you (if you have the room, of course). You can layer it over your travel set or pair with any other bottoms you bring with you. Choose the silhouette that works best for you, whether you like a short, cropped look or a loose, boxy fit.

Romance Ruffle Bra | Crisscross Hourglass Bike Shorts | Button Down Shirt | Shirt Dress

Oversized Button-Down

Even if you cringe at the term “oversized”, trust me on this! Bringing a shirt that fits just a little looser than normal means that you can wear it in multiple ways. Use it as a swimsuit cover-up at the beach or as a jacket-style layer over your travel set for a hike. At night, button it up and pair it with your favorite pants. The possibilities are endless.

Elevated Top

Having one fancy top for a night out is always a good idea. You can wear it with your skirt or dress or with jeans, depending on how formal or informal you want to be.

Another fun idea if you’re headed for warm weather: Double your fav one-piece swimsuit as a bodysuit.

Black Denim Jacket | Supersculpt Twirl Skort | Corset Bra | Perfect Tee

Versatile Skirt or Dress

 If you love adding a feminine flare to your outfit, bringing a skirt or dress can help you seamlessly switch between your day-to-night looks. The POPFLEX skorts are a great piece for this element because they are comfortable and elegant. You can wear them to a fancy restaurant and even as a part of your travel set (Yes, they’re that comfortable).

Denim Jacket

Jean jackets are seriously my ride-or-die. I never travel without one and highly recommend including one in your travel capsule. They seriously go with everything. If you’re not a blue jean type of girl, black denim is a fantastic alternative.

Your Favorite Pair of Pants or Jeans

The great thing about jeans is that they’re durable. Blue jeans are a classic. You can wear them multiple times before they need a wash and they go with a lot of different tops. If you’re not short on space, you can also incorporate a pair of black jeans for an elevated look.

Classic & Comfy Shoes

While I’m just outlining essentials and not going into detail about accessories (I’ll leave that up to you, dear reader!), it’s important to talk about the elephant in the room; footwear. When you’re traveling, you’re probably walking three or four times your usual daily step count. There’s a lot to see and do! And if you’ve only got room for one pair of shoes, you need something that will be comfortable and versatile. I recommend a classic low-rise and neutral-colored sneaker. My personal favorite is the Nike Air Force One, but there are plenty of options out there. 

If you’re headed somewhere where sandals are a must, these comfy slides won’t take up much room.

Putting It All Together

Now that we’ve given you the formula for building your travel capsule wardrobe, we hope you’ll take inspiration from the following outfit combinations. 

What are your travel essentials?

Let us know in the comments!

 

 

*These travel capsule ideas may contain referral links for products we love, and all opinions are our own. We earn a small commission from these links, at no additional cost to you.

How a Backpacking Trip Shifted My Body Image

Until last spring, I had never been backpacking — and never felt a strong desire to hit the trail with all of my belongings strapped on my back (yes, even after reading Wild by Cheryl Strayed!). 

But, come last March, things changed. Like many of us post-pandemic, I was in a rough spot. I was struggling to find my “new normal” and feeling a bit cooped up. So, in a moment of sheer spontaneity, I booked a solo backpacking trip. 

Great Expectations

Ahead of the trip, I didn’t know what to expect. I consulted a friend who had taken on the trail months before, and I explored a few blogs for insight on what to pack and what route to take. I was nervous about the weight of my pack, and I was unsure if I had enough actual hiking training since I booked the trip just a few weeks out. 

Regardless of my nerves, I was excited to be out in nature and to unplug from daily stressors, work, and social media. I was looking forward to listening to podcasts and my favorite Spotify playlists while checking out the beautiful scenery. 

And, while I expected that the trip would have an impact on my life, I didn’t expect the type of impact this backpacking journey would have on me.

Let’s Back Up

As many women do, I’ve struggled with body image for most of my life. I grew up in the era of thin-bodied models gracing the covers of fashion magazines, crash diets, and low-calorie/low-fat labels dominating shelves. 

In tune with the culture of the time, I was teased relentlessly about my thick ankles and lack of thigh gap in high school. I stopped wearing shorts for years and instead, I obsessed over everything I wore and everything I ate. While I’ve learned and grown from my 16-year-old self through hard work, the memories have a hard time fading, and it still felt like an ongoing mental battle more than fifteen years later. 

And, with the uncertainty of the pandemic and with months of endless social media scrolling, I felt myself returning back to the unhealthy obsession, wondering why my body didn’t look like my friends’ bodies, wondering if I was strong or skinny “enough” and wondering why I couldn’t meet my own warped expectations. 

I was unhappy in my body and felt like it never felt “right” no matter what I tried. 

Off We Go

With all of this in mind, I set off on my journey, stepping onto the dirt trail with my new backpack in tow. 

With each double-digit, heavy elevation day on the trail, I felt my legs screaming as I took on steep hills and felt my feet aching with fresh blisters. My shoulders were sore from a pack I wasn’t used to toting around, and my knees and ankles braced in anticipation of each scary-looking downgrade. But, with each new vista I reached, I started to realize — I was doing it. I was backpacking, and my body was indeed strong enough to meet the challenge. 

Nearly forty miles on my feet later, I wrapped up my final day. When I reached the trail end sign, I broke down in happy, proud tears. I took on what had turned into a bucket list item and could check it off the list. 

Surprise!

As far as expectations go, I did enjoy the incredible scenery that’s only accessible with backpacking. I loved having time to unplug and be with myself. I enjoyed listening to interviews and learning with hours of podcasts.

What I didn’t expect: my body image shifted on the trail — and so did my self-talk.

As I soaked up every breathtaking trail view, I started to realize: bodies are made for living, not looking. My body was able to get me to each view and each summit, and my body was the driving force behind this trip that inspired me to unplug more in the future. My body facilitated a life-changing experience — and it didn’t matter what it looked like. By removing thoughts about how I looked on the trail or if I was fit enough to wear the shorts, I was able to use my energy to live more fully and experience the activities that fulfilled me. 

I also realized that bodies are meant to change in size and shape.

If I was the same size I was in high school, I wouldn’t be able to have conquered the steep hills. My legs and shoulders couldn’t have supported me without some extra muscle. Our personalities and interests grow and expand and shift and narrow with life, so why can’t our bodies too? They are meant to adapt and grow with different seasons of life.

Mostly, this trip taught me how to be proud of and thankful for my body.

I cried at the end because I wasn’t just proud of my mental capacity to survive on a trail alone for a few days despite some tough situations, I was also proud of my body. It supported me along the way, and it felt good. For that, I am thankful and will continue to be thankful for my body, rather than shaming it. I won’t take for granted the things my body is capable of — whether that is backpacking a challenging trail or supporting me while standing over the stove cooking a meal or helping me jump and down at a concert with my favorite band.

Do you have a pivotal moment that shifted your body image?

Say Hello to The Perfect Bikini Top!

Hey guys!

Here’s why this is the most PERFECT bikini top. I know that’s bold to declare but I stand fully behind what I’m saying.

The issue

Most bikini tops either provide no support, or if there’s underwire, it doesn’t fit right, and if there’s padding, my bbs get exposed from the gapping!

The fix

Create something that molds to the natural shape of your bbs while offering support and infinite adjustability.

The solution

 

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The Boardwalk Bombshell Bikini Top

This is my first ever POPFLEX underwire bra! It took 2 years but I needed every moment of it to get this right. Making bras is not easy! I’ve still got a lot to learn but this is a pretty solid start.

What I love about this design:

🩵 Balconette cups
🩵 Contoured cup pattern to mold to the natural shape of your bbs
🩵 XXS-3X + 2 cup capacities to choose from so 18 different sizes!
🩵 Infinite Adjustability with the corset-inspired lace-up back feature. Seriously, this is a game-changer for fit!!
🩵 Silicone grip on ergonomic underbust
🩵 Non-slip: I mean it! The lace-up back paired with the grippies = ultimate security
🩵 Wide and stretchy straps for support
🩵 Wide and low neckline (so flattering!)
🩵 No padding (so I can still feel like myself)
🩵 Double-lined so no see-through scares
Gold hardware bc we elegant around here

Shop Boardwalk Bombshell Top

The perfect bikini top is still a work in progress!

The cups currently come in A-C capacity and D-DD capacity and I plan on extending my range for launch next summer. Just need time to study larger cups and get it right for you!

Hope you love. Any questions, just ask!

 

Swim Journey Pt. 3: Launch Day!

The final part of the swim journey…Launch Day!!

You guys, for real, I did not think we’d make it here. The struggles still aren’t over (the morning of launch I found out about a NEW problem ) but the items that did make it out I 100% stand behind with so much pride. Everything is made to feel like luxury, from the silky fabrics down to the gold hardware.

And the fit.

Oh you guys. The fit.

THIS is what I needed 2 years for. The never-ending pattern adjustments and the constant fittings resulted in some of the best-fitting swimwear you’ll ever put in your body. And trust, I own hundreds of bikinis from $17 Amazon no name brands to $250 one pieces from luxury swim boutiques.

 

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Noteworthy mentions:

Boardwalk Bombshell Bikini Top: My first ever underwire bra with a cup size for A-C and a cup size for D-DD! I’m very happy with the way the balconette bra lifts my boobs, it’s just SO FLATTERING! Plus the adjustable lace-up back allows you to customize your fit to PERFECTION. I know there are many of you with larger cups, but this is where we are starting as I need time to research. Thank you for your patience.

Crisscross Hourglass Cheeky Bikini Bottoms: Basically took the waistband from my most viral legging and stuck it on a bottom with high cut legs (hello long legs), a V booty seam, and a cheeky backside to lift and shape your butt. Don’t be scared of this cut. Trust me. Just try it.

Sandbar Strapless Top: The only strapless bikini top you won’t have to keep pulling up. This one DOES NOT fall off. Even if the lace-up back accidentally gets untied. I’ll explain more in a video. But again. TRUST ME.

 

Shop POPFLEX Swim

Ok now go check the POPFLEX site and have fun browsing! Look at the pics, read the model measurements, and come back here if you have any questions on fit!

Thank you for asking me to design a swim line for you. I had so much fun (and so many sleepless nights) – but all worth it if you can find something you truly love.

PS – I wrote more about the swim journey in Part 1 and Part 2 if you want to know everything that went on behind the scenes!

Check out the POPFLEX Swim Lookbook too!

 

Swim Journey Pt.2

Go here for Part 1 of the swim journey!

As I was losing time, I had no choice but to sacrifice the weak.

Crinkle fabric did not make it. He had to be dropped because we did not have enough time to figure out how to use him properly.

Several styles were dropped last minute as the fit was not working and I knew would take several more months to lock down.

However, there was one thing I COULD NOT sacrifice: the fit of our hero bra.

One of my favorite pieces is the POPFLEX Boardwalk Bombshell Bra that you see in the video. It was the first time I had ever worked with underwire and I was honestly so happy with our results. If fit me perfect. However, when my friend came over, I asked her to try on this bra and her D’s were dangerously bursting out of the cups.

In that moment I made the decision to DELAY our timeline on purpose.

There was absolutely NO WAY I could release this bra without having multiple cup options for you guys. Sacrificing fit is not an option.

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When we finally finished developing the second underwire size, it was already June. WE WERE SO LATE. I had originally wanted to launch in April! We rushed straight into production, booked our photographer, booked out models, booked our venue, and then –

2 days before we shoot, I had nothing in my hands.

To be continued…