The Founder’s Inspiration
Shannon Kehrer’s journey into the world of business began with an annoyance that most of us can relate to: slipping no-show socks. At 19, Shannon decided she had had enough of dealing with socks that wouldn’t stay in place. Without any design or sewing experience, she crafted a sock prototype on her kitchen floor, featuring an anklet that would keep it secure. Her DIY solution wasn’t just a quick fix; it turned into the concept for a product and eventually a business—Hidey Socks.
Design Meets Functionality
What makes Hidey Socks unique is their combination of style and functionality. These no-show socks are crafted from breathable bamboo fabric and include a secure anklet with Swarovski crystals, adding both durability and a touch of elegance. Customers can pair Hidey Socks with any footwear, from flats to high heels, making them a versatile wardrobe essential. Shannon’s attention to both aesthetics and performance has set Hidey Socks apart in the competitive sock market.
The Business Journey
After Shannon realized the potential demand for her creation, she took steps to turn her invention into a legitimate business. She spent years building credit, saving money, and teaching herself the basics of entrepreneurship. Starting with an online store, she began partnering with boutique retailers and eventually expanded her wholesale operations. Today, Hidey Socks are available in U.S. boutiques and internationally in Canada and Australia. The team is actively working on deals with larger retailers, including Neiman Marcus and Target.
Materials and Quality
A significant factor in Hidey Socks’ appeal is their bamboo-based material. Bamboo is naturally breathable, hypoallergenic, and more durable than traditional cotton, creating a soft and comfortable experience for wearers. The choice to use bamboo reflects Shannon’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Many customers report that they’ll never go back to regular cotton socks after experiencing the feel and longevity of bamboo.
Product Expansion
Hidey Style is growing, with new product lines emerging to meet customer needs. Recently, Shannon introduced a line of yoga and Pilates socks featuring grippers for enhanced stability during workouts. This expansion reflects her commitment to continuous improvement and customer focus. Hidey Socks are also now available in kids’ sizes, making it easy for families to match and enjoy together. The range of products is expected to grow as Hidey Style continues to innovate.
Community and Networking
One of the driving forces behind Shannon’s success has been her partnership with WBEC-West and her network of women entrepreneurs. These connections have provided invaluable opportunities, from introductions to large retailers to guidance from experienced business owners. Shannon values this community support and uses it as motivation to keep expanding her business.
A Word of Advice
Shannon’s journey is a testament to persistence and creativity in the face of challenges. She encourages other entrepreneurs to stay determined and embrace the hurdles that come with building a business. Her story proves that sometimes the best products are born from everyday frustrations—and a little bit of DIY ingenuity.
To explore Hidey Socks or make a purchase, visit Hidey Style’s website at https://hideystyle.com/. To listen to her full journey, listen to Women in Motion using this link: https://businessradiox.com/podcast/women-in-motion/shannon-kehrer/
About Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West (WBEC-West)
WBEC-West is a regional partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a coalition of corporations, WBEs, and regionally focused women’s business organizations. As an affiliate organization, WBEC-West implements the certification standards of WBENC throughout Arizona, Colorado, Southern California, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Hawaii, and Guam. WBENC is the largest certifier of women’s business enterprises in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs. WBENC certification is nationally recognized and accepted by more than 10,000 major corporations. We also support corporations in their efforts to include WBENC Certified WBEs in their supply chain.
