Sara Blakely: 9 Things You Don’t Know About the Spanx Founder, and Youngest Forbes Billionairess

Last week, Tracey spilled the beans on Slaves to Fashion that Sara Blakely, founder of underwear drawer-religion Spanx, is the youngest self-made female billionairess ever. Yes, ever. Currently on the cover of Forbes, the 41-year-old Blakely is a powerhouse of a petite blond, but you already know that. Here’s what you may not know.

I’m obsessed with this picture of Blakely on CBS This Morning.__She’s a Tri-Delt.__At her alma mater Florida State Univeristy, Sara was member of Delta Delta Delta. So, if someone ever calls you a “sorority girl,” you’re now free to take it as a major compliment.

__She sold office equipment door-to-door.__Like, fax machines. Like, really.

She does her homework. Why are Spanx called Spanx? Thanks to her research on successful brand names (“Kodak” and “Coca-Cola” included), plus background in stand-up comedy, Sara knew that the “K” sound need to be prominent in her branding.

She conducts her meetings in her skivvies. One way to make sure your upcoming products are top-notch? Test ’em out. In front of everyone.

She’s fearless…kind of. Business and product development? Psh, Sara doesn’t finch. But heights, flying and public speaking? Those are less of a cinch—even this superwoman had to conquer her fears to forge ahead.

She’s a magnet for semi-nudity. Sara’s husband, Jesse Itzler, told Forbes that when women recognize her out and about, they flash their Spanx at her in appreciation.

She has her own foundation. The Sara Blakely Foundation supports women by providing entrepreneurial grants, education and hands-on initiatives all over the world. A.K.A.: While making your bum look BAM, you’re helping Sara raise money to help the world. You can be very, very OK with this.

She tanked the LSAT. And it’s a good thing, too.

She wrote her own patent out of a textbook to save $3,000. To pinch pennies, some women cut back on eating out. Others, on shoes. Sara? On legal fees. Voila.

You must, must, must read the full Forbes story on Blakely and her record-setting accomplishment. You’ll never have known a financial mag could make you laugh so much. Sara, you’re a total inspiration.

P.S. Curious about the other women who made the billionaire list? Take a peek at this roundup from MSNBC.

Spanx-lovers and future-entrepreneurs alike, speak up! Do you have a dream to launch a product or company?

Photo: Getty Images