In 1971 Hot Sox launched in New York City with a collection of silkscreened bright opaque socks and the category of novelty footwear was born. Inspired by the hot pants trend, Founder Gary Wolkowitz determined stylish socks were the logical next step for a generation that embraced fun fashion. Though bellbottoms, 8-tracks, and lava lamps faded, Hot Sox has endured due to creative thinking and increasing consumer demand. On the heels of this success, Hot Sox took leg warmers off the ballerina, out of the studio, and into the mainstream with another inventive take on fashionable footwear. Fast-forward to the aughts, Hot Sox delved into the arts, releasing a sock starring a finely rendered knit portrait of iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo to honor her 100th birthday. Reflecting the brand's ongoing celebration of art and pop culture, the tribute paved the way for a Hot Sox signature, the Artist Series. Today, Hot Sox continues its founding principles of marrying creativity and artistry with the practicality of footwear. In the United States, Hot Sox is available in over 1,700 stores. Internationally, the brand is available throughout Europe, Japan and Latin America.