This Startup Sock Company is Beginning to Melt Hearts Everywhere
Los Angeles based Fritz ‘n Chewy releases their limited "Heart Shaped” socks, just in time for Valentine’s Day
Co-Founders Ben Chan and Gilles Vanpoucke attending sock school.
LOS ANGELES, CA: Combining their passions for both socks and dogs, Irvine resident Ben Chan and Hermosa Beach resident Gilles Vanpoucke have teamed up to create startup sock company, Fritz ‘n Chewy. Named after each of their rescue dogs, Fritz ‘n Chewy’s “look better, be better” approach strives to make this world better...both one foot at a time, and one dog at a time.
Far from the kitschiness of novelty socks, Fritz ‘n Chewy’s designs offer people a classy way to add a pop of color to their outfit, whether for a day at the office, a night on the town, or just an afternoon stroll with their dog. Fritz ‘n Chewy believes your feet should look good no matter where they’re taking you. Historically, socks have served a strictly functional purpose, with limited comfort and design options. Especially when considering options that are professionally appropriate, there were limited choices beyond the boring black sock. “We see socks as a way to reflect your personality and add color to the world. Each pair has a critical balance of style, color, comfort, and simplicity,” says co-founder Ben Chan, who creates all designs in-house. Most designs boast a simple design element right above the ankle, which peeks out as people’s pant legs shift. Fritz ‘n Chewy is reimagining the sock, and it’s grown-up, clean, and versatile.
Chan, who produces all designs in-house, gets his inspirations from travelling, different cultures, foot, art, and photography
One of their most popular designs offers a great way to stand apart from the standard bouquet of flowers or box of chocolates this Valentine’s Day. The Bailey features half of a heart on each sock so when one’s feet are placed together, the halves meet to form a whole heart. Chan shared that when they chose the name Bailey for this particular design, they envisioned an affectionate, lovable Beagle. “It has quickly become a fan favorite. It’s a playful design that is work-appropriate on top, but all whimsy once you slip off your shoes. It’s perfect for gifting and very instagramable,” Chan says.
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The Bailey, Fritz 'n Chewy's heart design, is melting hearts everywhere. Ours included.
To pair their passion of socks and dogs, Fritz ‘n Chewy has teamed up with three pet rescue organizations, each with its unique approach to tackling the growing issue of overcrowded shelters and placing rescue dogs with loving families. Every purchase from Fritz ‘n Chewy has a broader purpose, as a portion of each sale is donated to help these organizations cover the costs of food, shelter, emergency medical services, basic behavior training, and the general transitioning of placing rescue dogs in new homes.
You can frequently find Chan and Vanpoucke at local pet adoption events or pop-up markets with a pair of socks in one hand, and a dog leash in the other. “After rescuing both Fritz and Chewy from shelters in Southern California, we wanted to share our story and passion to make a difference. We felt it was necessary to give some more attention to these great causes and help make an impact in our own way,” Vanpoucke says. “We are going to forever change how the world sees socks!”
For more information, visit www.fritznchewy.com or follow them on social media.
Instagram: @fritznchewy
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fritznchewy
Vanpoucke and Chan look to forever change how the world sees socks. "We're going to change the world...one foot at a time!