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 change this world…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 men and women 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 and Vanpoucke’s plans to change how the world see socks goes beyond just their designs. To pair socks with their love for 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.

“Fritz ’n Chewy is reimagining the sock, and it’s grown-up, clean, and versatile.” – Fritz ’n Chewy-

You can frequently find Chan and Vanpoucke sharing their passion 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 fritznchewy.com or follow them on social media.
Instagram: @fritznchewy
Facebook: facebook.com/fritznchewy