Talk about a Stocking Stuffer!

Erica is one of the most interesting, self-motivated designers I’ve met in a long time. Her concept for fun, witty socks is so fun and a little bit nuts. We first met Erica at Unique L.A. about a month ago and even thought I’m not much of a sock girl, I couldn’t help but get drawn over to her booth. Even I had to admit…these socks are hot! Sit back and enjoy…ROCK SOCKS!

LDB: So what first got you started in designing socks?

RS: For years I’ve worn shorts and knee socks as my everyday “uniform” the way some people wear jeans and flip flops. I had been toying with the idea of designing socks for a while, because there are very few companies making interesting, stylish socks, but didn’t actually take the plunge until last year. Seeing the amazing variety of hip Obama gear and products I thought ‘Somebody needs to make Obama socks!’ Then I realized that there was no reason I shouldn’t be the person to make Obama socks and voila! The world had its first-ever presidential knee socks and I had a sock company.

Actually, it’s great because I’ve worked in fashion most of my adult life and I finally feel as though I’m putting my English BA to good use! Putting the power of words on socks.

LDB: What has been the response so far?

RS: The response to Obama socks was huge and immediate - they were featured in everything from Marie Claire to LA Weekly and I couldn’t keep up with the sales. That success allowed me to introduce a full line which is also doing really, really well. Quirky socks are a niche but these socks are very unique and fun; the people that like them REALLY like them. A lot of people buy them as gifts because they are playful, useful, unique and affordable.

We’re doing especially well in hip, indie cities like Portland. And there’s been an awesome response in Japan.

LDB: Can you tell us what new socks we can look forward to seeing soon?

RS: I can’t give away my secrets, but by late October there will be a whole new group of word socks (check www.rocksocks.net or our Fan Page on Facebook for updates). They won’t be styled like retro tube socks; they are dress socks. I describe the new collection as the kind of socks Oscar Wilde would wear if he were alive today and listening to the Ramones and hanging out with Rodney Bingenheimer.

LDB: Where can we find you when you’re not designing and promoting your business?

RS: When I’m not working on Rock Socks, I’m buying vintage clothes - I’m a huge collector (I co-authored and photographed Rock Tease (Abrams Image, 2006), the first book about vintage rock T-shirts), urban hiking (aka walking in LA), shopping at Amoeba or traveling. I am also a partner in Portland’s Red Light Clothing Exchange, a huge vintage clothing emporium. The Red Light keeps me pretty busy - it’s a rock star clothing junkie’s Candyland.

Erica is smart, hip and quick-witted…all of which is reflected in her sock collection. I’m looking forward to more. I’m not sure what to make of Oscar Wilde/Ramones/Rodney Bingenheimer dress socks. (?) We’ll wait and see. For more information on Rock Socks or to inquire about a wholesale order for your store, click here to contact Erica directly.

Thanks, Erica for taking time out with LDB. We wish you the very best with Rock Socks!