I Tried Taylor Swift’s Go-To Activewear Brand — and Have Some Thoughts

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Beyond selling out stadiums, Taylor Swift also has a knack for selling out the inventory of certain clothing brands — more specifically, brands whose clothes she wears often. The pop star’s fashion choices are a frequent topic of conversation among fans, many of whom will attempt to dissect and purchase her outfits before the pieces (inevitably) sell out — and all without a single verbal endorsement from Swift.

Cassey Ho, founder of activewear brand Popflex, knows about the star’s buying power all too well, having previously told PS that there is “nothing like the Taylor Swift Effect.” Swift has been spotted in a number of Popflex styles over the last few years. In a video posted to Taylor Nation’s TikTok channel, the singer was seen donning the Popflex Pirouette Skort ($60) in the Digital Lavender colorway, then again in the music video for her single, “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” — this time, paired with the Popflex Corset Bra ($44).

Not long after these styles received Swift’s (quiet) cosign, they began trending online. Videos flooded TikTok of users buying the bouncy skirt after being influenced by the musician, and searches like “Taylor Swift skirt” and “Popflex skirt” have increased dramatically on Google in the last six months.

Like many other Swifties, I’m far from immune to the singer’s product influence; see my review of Swift’s red lip pencil or her posture-correcting sports bra for further proof. Intrigued by what makes this activewear brand so beloved by the world’s most famous woman, I decided to try Popflex’s bestselling pieces for myself — testing them for breathability, comfort, and of course, style.

What I Like About Popflex Active

Don’t let the playful nature of Popflex’s clothes fool you — these styles are designed with performance in mind. I’ve worn the Pirouette Skirt and Corset Bra in several different environments: first to the gym to test how they felt while on an elliptical machine, and then to my local tennis court to see how they held up for a more high-movement activity.

The Popflex skort is fitted with built-in shorts, which provide total coverage beneath the skirt and ensure I don’t have to worry about any awkward exposure while on a workout bike or even while running. While I usually struggle with chafing (especially if I’m outdoors and sweating), the shorts are made from a polyester and spandex blend that feels cool against skin and keeps my inner thighs from rubbing together too much. The high-waisted design looks extremely flattering (even on someone with wider hips), while the skort’s interior side pockets add a layer of functionality that’s perfect for holding my keys or even cell phone while I’m exercising.

As someone with a larger bust, I had my doubts about the supportiveness of the Corset Bra, but those concerns were quickly dispelled the moment I stepped onto the tennis court. Whether I was stretching, serving, or diving for the ball, my boobs felt tightly secured within the sports bra, and I had zero fear of anything popping out. The style’s corset framing is incredibly flattering, and it’s even fitted with removable pads so that I can adjust the top to better suit my fit preferences.

I’m a firm believer that the right outfit can transform your whole mood — and that extends to your workout routine, too. While it typically takes a lot for me to get excited about exercising, somehow these pieces helped hype me up for the challenge. Sure, the Popflex skirt and bra are endlessly comfortable, but they’re also uniquely stylish; the skort has a tenniscore feel that’s equally sporty and feminine (almost like a tulle fairy skirt). Alternatively, the bra is designed to mirror the flattering nature of a corset, sans any discomfort or strain on my upper body.

Popflex’s founder believes the brand’s unique design flourishes are also part of what appeals to Swift herself. “I think at heart there will always be that young, inner Taylor who loves dressing up in ballgowns and singing about princess love stories. Because Popflex designs are very romantic and feminine, perhaps the ruffles, corsets, and twirly skorts really speak to her soul!” she told PS for a previous article.

I can definitely echo this sentiment within my own experience of wearing Popflex clothes; the styles epitomize a “look good, feel good” mindset, with eccentric design touches that genuinely make me forget I’m wearing activewear at all. And despite being unlike anything else on the market, they’re still surprisingly affordable, with prices well under $100.

What’s Worth Noting

Contrary to product photos (and even Swift’s own videos), the interior shorts on the Pirouette Skort are on the longer side, and they have a tendency to stretch past the bottom of the skirt — especially while you’re working out. This isn’t necessarily a concern with regard to functionality; in my experience, the more material the merrier (particularly when it comes to workout attire). But I did find myself having to make adjustments and pull the shorts up, simply for style sake. Additionally, the Corset Bra is not adjustable, so if you’re someone who prefers a more customized fit with your sports bras, consider another option.

Who Are These Popflex Pieces Best For?

Whether you’re wondering how to dress like Taylor Swift or are simply a gym rat looking to add more flair to your athletic wardrobe, these Popflex pieces are perfect for anyone who — like the musician — isn’t afraid to dress outside of the box (even while working out). They’re great for a variety of workouts, from Pilates to weight-lifting and even tennis matches. Plus, with a wide variety of available colors and sizes, it’s easy to shop out your perfect fit.

Additional Details

Where Is the Popflex Skort and Popflex Corset Bra Available to Shop?

These pieces are available to shop through the brand’s website, Popflexactive.com.

Kyley Warren is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on PS Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.