What's in a Name?: Spanx

SPANX® is a women's undergarment company founded in Atlanta, Georgia in 2000 by entrepreneur Sara Blakely when she was just 27 years old. The company has become famous for its slimming and shaping undergarments, which are loved by women all around the world.

Cutting the Feet Off

The idea for SPANX® came to Sara in the late 1990s while she was getting ready for a party. She wanted to wear a pair of white pants, but couldn't find any undergarments that would give her a smooth, seamless look. Getting creative, she tried cutting off the feet of a pair of control-top pantyhose and wearing them as a makeshift undergarment.The result was surprisingly effective, and, just like that, the idea for SPANX® was born.

For the next two years, Sara spent her time developing and refining the product, working on everything from perfecting the fabric and design to creating the packaging and business plan. She even wrote her own patent and trademark applications. Finally, in 2000, she launched her company with just one product: footless pantyhose.

Quitting Her Day Job

Sara faced a lot of challenges in the early days of SPANX®. She had no background in fashion or retail, and had to rely on her own instincts and determination to make the business a success. She initially funded the company with her own savings and credit card debt, and even worked a day job selling fax machines while she got SPANX® off the ground.

However, Sara’s hard work and persistence soon paid off. Once they hit the market, SPANX® quickly became a hit with women. In fact, the product was placed on “Oprah’s Favorite Things” list in 2000. The company eventually expanded its product line to include a variety of shapewear and other undergarments, as well as leggings, activewear, and even swimwear.

Becoming a Billionaire

As for the name SPANX®, it was a play on the word "spanks," which is a term for tight-fitting undergarments that smooth out the body's contours. However, Sara wanted a name that was more memorable and catchy, and "SPANX®" fit the bill.

Today, SPANX® is a multi-million dollar company with a global presence. Sara is one of the world's wealthiest self-made women, and has become an inspiration to entrepreneurs everywhere. In March of 2012, she was named the world's youngest, self-made female billionaire by Forbes Magazine and made the list of TIME's 100 Most Influential People. The company continues to innovate and expand its product line, but at its core, it remains focused on helping women feel confident and comfortable in their own skin.

Sara’s invention is a true American success story. From its humble beginnings as a single product created in her home, SPANX® has grown into a global brand that has revolutionized the undergarment industry. The company’s stated purpose is “Elevating Women”, a testament to its founder’s determination to make her vision a reality.

For more business-naming stories, check out What's in a Name?: L.L. Bean, The Story Behind Jimmy Beans Wool, and, of course, Penny Mustard: Our History.

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