She Kept Quiet While the World Slept Now Her Secret Prints Money

Sara Blakely’s inspiring ascent from selling fax machines to becoming a billionaire entrepreneur exemplifies the power of discreet ambition. In 2000, armed with a modest $5,000, she established Spanx, which has since evolved into a shapewear phenomenon valued at $1.2 billion.At the Texas Conference for Women on October 2, 2024, Blakely shared insights on her unique entrepreneurial journey. For an entire year, she kept her innovative idea hidden from even her closest friends and family, convinced that outside opinions could stifle her vision.Blakely built Spanx independently, refusing outside investment, and dedicated two decades to developing a brand synonymous with transforming women’s undergarments. Her unconventional marketing included strategically placing Spanx at department store checkout areas and driving with a “SPANX” license plate. The milestone moment came when Oprah Winfrey endorsed Spanx on her show, catapulting the brand into the spotlight.Now, at 54, Blakely boasts an estimated net worth of $1.3 billion.