Sara Blakely

Sara Blakely is an entrepreneur and inventor known for founding the shapewear company Spanx. Blakely developed the concept for Spanx after seeking a solution to improve the fit of her clothing, leading her to create footless pantyhose. With no formal background in fashion, retail, or business leadership, she invested her savings into researching clothing manufacturing and launched Spanx, which became widely recognized after being featured on Oprah Winfrey's "Favorite Things."

Blakely's professional journey began as a door-to-door fax machine salesperson before she established Spanx. She credits her approach to entrepreneurship to her upbringing, where her father encouraged learning from failure, a philosophy she shares in her public speaking engagements. Blakely gained additional visibility as a contestant on the reality television program "Rebel Billionaire," hosted by Richard Branson, and has appeared as a guest judge on "Shark Tank" and in a cameo on "Billions."

Under Blakely's leadership, Spanx expanded from shapewear to include undergarments, leggings, and apparel. The company attracted significant investment, with Blackstone acquiring a majority stake in a deal that valued Spanx at $1.2 billion. Blakely retained her role as executive chairwoman and part owner. She also founded Sneex, a brand focused on hybrid footwear that merges the style of a stiletto with the comfort of a sneaker. Blakely is recognized on Forbes' America's Richest Self-Made Women list.

In addition to her business ventures, Blakely is active in philanthropy through the Sara Blakely Foundation, supporting women in entrepreneurship, education, and the arts. She is the first self-made female billionaire to sign The Giving Pledge, committing to donate at least half of her wealth to charitable causes. Through the Red Backpack Foundation and other initiatives, Blakely has funded scholarships and invention education programs for girls. She has been inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, received an honorary doctorate from Florida State University, and is listed among TIME's 100 Most Influential People.

Blakely is a frequent speaker on topics such as entrepreneurship, innovation, consumer branding, and female leadership. Her career is marked by a focus on creative problem-solving, resilience, and advocacy for women's empowerment in business.