Cassey Ho's Blog, page 8

It’s time for a real convo with real numbers…

“Your stuff is too expensive.”

Not a single week goes by that I don’t hear this exact criticism about POPFLEX. I’m not going to waste any time arguing, defending, or justifying anything. HOWEVER, I do need some input from you. Ready?

HOMEWORK: please answer all 3 to get %

1⃣ When you want something “affordable,” can you be more specific? We need to be speaking apples to apples here! What is your ideal price point for leggings? Be reasonable here though! No one can expect a luxury pair of leggings to cost $5, okay?
2⃣ What feature could you live without? For example: Removable bra pads. Cutting unnecessary features = lower cost.
3⃣ This one is for funzies. Is there a dream store you would love to see my designs in? Let’s manifest!

 

 

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I promise I am not ignoring you on the price convo. I hear you, but we need to have a real chat with real numbers. What you tell me in the comments today will really help me navigate the next steps to making things more affordable. Thank you for your help!

The 2025 POPFLEX Fit Planner is Here!!

I can’t believe it’s been 12 years. WOW.

 

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SHOP 2025 FIT PLANNER

The 2025 POPFLEX Fit Planner

It’s here!!!!

For those of you trying to balance your fitness life with your life life, this one’s for us. All the prompts and pages in this fit planner have been tweaked and perfected over the past decade+ as I’ve evolved over my fitness journeys:

Daily meal planning
Daily water tracking
Daily sleep tracking
Daily mood tracking
Daily to-do checklist
Weekly workout planner
Weekly grocery list
Monthly intentions
Monthly reflections
Cycle tracking
Habit tracking
Goal setting + tracking
Workout challenges
Healthy recipes
2025 vision planning + reflection

 

SHOP 2025 FIT PLANNER

I am someone who loves tracking things with pen and paper and crossing things off physically. It just FEELS more like an accomplishment, you know what I mean? I can’t believe we are just a few weeks away from a whole new year. 2024 has gone by tooooo fast!!!

TWO COLORS!

Are you getting Black Metallic or Rainbow Gradient?! Ahhh it’s so hard to choose but honestly, there’s no wrong answer.

What are your 2025 goals? Mine: to live my life to the fullest and live more spontaneously. Whatever the heart wants, the heart gets.

 

I know what you’re going to say…

Don’t say it DO NOT SAY IT

Not everyone’s cut out to be a romper girlie and THAT’S OKAY. Rompers are in my blood so I’ll wear them forever and design them forever no matter what anyone says.

rOmPeRs 4 LyFe

 

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SHOP CLOUD ROMPER

 

The Cloud Romper

The easiest cozy outfit ever. Tighten the bungee to cinch the waist, or let it out to go full Potato Mode. Of course she has romantic, blousy sleeves and a large enchanted hood. The two front pockets have zippers so nothing falls out while you lounge!

Sam and I did a spontaneous trip out to Joshua Tree this weekend to stargaze and this was my morning desert outfit! It’s the POPFLEX Cloud Romper and I am 5’5” wearing sz S/M!

Just don’t ask me how to pee, okay?

 

SHOP CLOUD ROMPER

Your Blogilates December 2024 Workout Calendar!!

Hey guys!

You’ve made it to your last workout calendar of 2024!! Thanks for sticking it out with me month after month this year. I’m so proud of you! I hope you’re feeling stronger physically and mentally, more confident, and excited to see what you can achieve in 2025.

2025. WOW. Can you believe it?!

Here it is! Your December Workout Calendar.

DOWNLOAD

How to follow the December 2024 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 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 December 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

The app has so much more than the calendar!

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

You’ll also find 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.

One of the many “pinch me” moments of this year! The first ever POPFLEX billboard!

Want MORE?! Take on a challenge

Begin 2025 with one of my favorite challenges, the 30-day Good Mood Challenge! Or get into the habit of meal prep with the Build-A-Bowl Challenge!

You can find more challenges here!

Time to check in!

Are you IN for the last calendar of 2024?! Don’t forget to celebrate your wins for the year, no matter how small! Enjoy the holidays, and I’ll see you next year!

A chic upgrade for our favorite viral leggings

Now, a lil upgrade to my most viral legging…Introducing the POPFLEX Faux Leather Leggings!

 

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SHOP FAUX LEATHER LEGGINGS

 

These faux leather leggings mimic the texture and look of leather while being stretchy enough for a legging! For my girls who dream of a ‘going out’ outfit that feels like staying home in your comfies, THIS IS THE ANSWER.

I love them so much that I made them in 9 !!) sizes (XXS-3X) and 5 inseams! Please measure from crotch to ankle bone! Not the floor like full length jeans. Here are your options:

EXTRA PETITE: 23” for heights 5’ and under
PETITE: 25” for heights 5’1” – 5’3”
REGULAR: 27” for heights 5’4” to 5’7”
TALL: 29” for heights 5’8” to 5’ 11”
EXTRA TALL: 31” for heights 6’0” and above

As a reference, I’m 5’5” wearing size small, 27” inseam. But def measure yourself because just because we’re the same height doesn’t mean we have the same torso length and leg length!

I can’t wait to see how chic you look in these!

 

SHOP FAUX LEATHER LEGGINGS

Trader Joe’s Thanksgiving Crowd Faves

The holidays are officially upon us! If you’re hosting Thanksgiving, it’s time to nail down the perfect spread. If you’re a guest, it’s time to decide what you’re contributing! Here are my favorite things from Trader Joe’s that make holiday cooking a little easier.

Keep in mind these are my picks for convenience and yumminess. If you prefer to cook everything from scratch, go for it! But if you need to stress a little less and enjoy time with friends and family a little more, this list is for you.

Credit for all images: Trader Joe’s

Main dishes

Maybe you’re hosting a small group. Maybe you’re hosting a large, diverse group of eaters. These main dishes will impress everyone, with minimal work required.

1. Brined Bone-In Half Turkey Breast

The juiciest, most flavorful pre-cooked turkey breast I’ve ever had. These go fast, for a good reason!

2. Breaded Turkey-Less Stuffed Roast

Even if you’re not vegan, definitely grab one of these. It’s so flavorful and cozy.

 

3. Balsamic Rosemary Beef Steak Tips

If you’re not a fan of turkey or just want to go for something unconventional, these steak tips are delicious and ready to cook.

Apps

In my opinion, appetizers are the true star of the show at any gathering. Isn’t grazing while you mingle until it’s time to sit down at the table the best part?

 

1. Savory Squash Pastry Bites

Bite-sized appetizers are always a good choice. These little cuties are filled with a lovely combo of pumpkin, butternut squash, and four different cheeses. All you have to do is bake and enjoy! And share, I guess.

 

2. Mini Brioche Bites

These fluffy bites are filled with apricot and brie cheese. Yes, they will absolutely melt in your mouth.

3. Double Cream Brie Cheese

Charcuterie may be “out” according to some Gen-Zers, but it’s still the perfect Thanksgiving app IMO (yes, I am a millennial). Trader Joe’s is my go-to for all grazing board necessities, but this Double Cream Brie is my favorite. If you’re not into the effort of an entire board, wrap this little wheel of goodness in puff pastry and bake it. Serve with your favorite crackers.

4. Chicken Uncured Bacon Ranch Dip

Chicken, cheese, uncured bacon, and ranch. My advice? Bring at least two of these babies. Serve with chips and veggies.

5. Thanksgiving Stuffing Seasoned Popcorn

This appetizer is a little unconventional, but delicious nonetheless. As a bonus, it’s sure to break the ice and spark conversation.

Sides

Tired of the same boring Thanksgiving sides? Can’t cook? No worries.

1. Harvest Apple Salad Kit

What goes better with turkey and heavy, starchy sides? A crisp, zippy salad. This Harvest Apple Salad Kit is ready to go, with a spring mix, Unexpected Cheddar (IYKYK), crunchy apple chips and pecans, and a tasty apple vinaigrette. If you want to level this up, serve with fresh apple slices.

 

2. Herbs de Provence Potato Wedges

These look and taste like you put in a lot of work. They’re crispy, herby, and delicious. You truly can’t go wrong with this Thanksgiving side.

 

3. Garlic Shiitake Green Beans

Are you team fresh green beans or team green bean casserole? I’m team ALL green beans tbh, but I’m obsessed with these Garlic Shiitake Green Beans. Not only is the flavor amazing, but they look and taste like you made them from scratch.

 

4. Mashed Potatoes

Nobody really talks about the PRESSURE that comes with making mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving. They aren’t as easy to master as you’d think! These potatoes are pre-cooked and mashed, and frozen into cubes so you can heat as much as you need and dress them up as you like. No chance of globby or dry potatoes.

 

5. Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Plain, pre-cooked and mashed sweet potatoes, ready for you to add your own personal flavor. Will you keep them pretty basic with butter, or go all out with brown sugar and mallows?

6. Scallopini Potatoes

The third and final potato in this series is the most extra. Cheesy, creamy Scallopini Potatoes. You could definitely make this from scratch if you have the time and motivation, but these are a yummy alternative.

 

7. Fresh Cranberry Sauce

 

If you’re in charge of cranberry sauce, this is the one. It’s made with simple ingredients (cranberries, sugar, and water) and doesn’t taste overly sweet.

Desserts

Perhaps the most important course of all?

1. Apple Crumble Pie

 

The oat crumble topping on this is so delicious my mouth is watering just thinking about it. If you pass it off as homemade, I won’t tell.

 

2. Nantucket Style Cranberry Pie

A buttery crust topped with juicy, sweet, tart cranberry filling. The perfect compliment to traditional desserts like pumpkin pie.

 

3. Petit Fours Mousse Cakes

 

Light, sweet, and bite-sized.

 

4. Sweet Cannoli Dip

Serve this in a cute little bowl topped with mini chocolate chips or berries, and a side of graham crackers. If you want to get fancy, use it to layer in a trifle.

 

5. Macarons

 

The easiest choice if you’re in a pinch or just looking to add a little variety to your dessert table. Macarons instantly elevate the vibe. The pistachio flavor is my fave.

 

Beverages

If the food is covered, a yummy beverage is always a good choice. Trader Joe’s has an amazing selection of beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks. And… this new ready-to-drink espresso martini, which I will FOR SURE be grabbing!

Before you check out, don’t forget to grab some flowers!

 

What can fit in this pocket?!

Sooo we need to talk about the POPFLEX Half Zip Warm Up Hoodie. I did make it for YOU, after all.

 

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SHOP HALF ZIP HOODIE

The Half Zip Warm Up Hoodie

A classic that I designed and launched a couple years ago, and to this day, remains one of my favorites. You can wear it long or cinch the adjustable bungees on the sides for a cropped look! The structured neck is so regal and gives a higher end, elegant look to an otherwise very casual, sporty piece!

But the key to how good it looks is… THE SHAPE. It’s an inverted triangle that tapers you in at the waist. NO FRUMP HERE. Some other things that make the half zip hoodie one of my faves:

Cloud fabric
Drop shoulder
Blousy sleeves
A HUGE double-lined hood
A zippered pocket (no dropped phones!)

 

And yeah… I did fit my entire lunch in the kangaroo pocket. Anyway, what else do you guys want to see? From full zip to no zip to half zip…which is your zip of choice!?

SHOP HALF ZIP HOODIE

What CAN’T fit in this pocket?!

Sooo we need to talk about the POPFLEX Half Zip Warm Up Hoodie. I did make it for YOU, after all.

 

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SHOP HALF ZIP HOODIE

The Half Zip Warm Up Hoodie

A classic that I designed and launched a couple years ago, and to this day, remains one of my favorites. You can wear it long or cinch the adjustable bungees on the sides for a cropped look! The structured neck is so regal and gives a higher end, elegant look to an otherwise very casual, sporty piece!

But the key to how good it looks is… THE SHAPE. It’s an inverted triangle that tapers you in at the waist. NO FRUMP HERE. Some other things that make the half zip hoodie one of my faves:

Cloud fabric
Drop shoulder
Blousy sleeves
A HUGE double-lined hood
A zippered pocket (no dropped phones!)

 

And yeah… I did fit my entire lunch in the kangaroo pocket. Anyway, what else do you guys want to see? From full zip to no zip to half zip…which is your zip of choice!?

SHOP HALF ZIP HOODIE

I tried to make the perfect legging…

I can’t believe this legging has been going for nearly 4 years, and every year, as trends change, the bottom hem changes. We’ve added colors and inseams and as of now, you have 1,075 different options to choose from. FOR REAL. But as we add and evolve this legging, you know what stays?

That iconic waistband
That anti-cameltoe crotch
That booty seam
That squat proofability
Those pockets
And the fact that I’ll always cover my shorties to my supermodels.

 

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SHOP LEGGINGS

What’s silhouette is your fave?

I am 5’5” wearing the POPFLEX Crisscross Hourglass® Legging in size small, 27” inseam. This legging comes in xxs-3x in 5 inseams! For leggings measure from crotch to ankle bone. For flares measure from crotch to floor.

The perfect plane outfit!

Quiz: why do you need a collar in your the plane outfit?

I wore the POPFLEX Ooey Gooey Half Zip and Ooey Gooey Sweatpants on my 14+ hour flight to Italy and it was perfect for making me look put together while also being soft and comfortable enough for sleeping!

 

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SHOP OOEY GOOEY

Not so fun fact

The one time I wasn’t wearing this half zip on the way back to the U.S., I put my printed boarding pass in a non-zippered pocket and 100% lost them at TSA. I was running around FREAKING OUT. Luckily someone returned them to an officer and I got them back but OMG. Unfortunately that’s not even a bad airport situation for me. I’ve def showed up to the wrong airport before, or right airport but 1 day late, or waited at the wrong gate not realizing my flight had already taken off.

Thank goodness for Sam. Me traveling solo = bad news.