Ross laing, Co Founder of Stand Out Socks
What’s the best way to stand out in life? If you ask Ross, the answer is simple: bold, colourful, conversation-starting socks! But behind these funky foot coverings is a powerful mission: to create job opportunities for people with learning disabilities, especially those with Down’s syndrome. Let’s dive into Ross’s incredible journey and the fun-filled world of Stand Out Socks!
My brother Scott proudly has several pairs of Stand Out Socks
A Business Built on Love, Family, and Funky Fashion
Ross had been looking for paid employment for over six years with little luck. This is when his brother Christian and sister-in-law Natalie decided enough was enough. It was time to create something amazing together. That’s how Stand Out Socks was born. I mean, who doesn’t love a great pair of socks?
But these aren’t just any socks. They’re bold, bright, and made to make a statement, not just about fashion, but about inclusion, opportunities, and showing the world what people with learning disabilities can do. This is something that is very close to my heart. My younger brother Scott has Down's syndrome, and so do some of my dearest friends. I even worked as a carer for those with learning disabilities during the pandemic, so once I heard about Ross's story, I had to share it with the world.
Why Socks? Why Not!
Ross knows firsthand how hard it can be to find a job when you have a learning disability. So why not create something fun that also raises awareness? And what better way to spark conversations than with eye-catching socks?
From chromosome 21-inspired designs (a nod to Down’s syndrome) to mix-and-match odd pairs that celebrate uniqueness, every pair of Stand Out Socks comes with a message: Different is brilliant!
The Journey – Challenges, Triumphs, and a Few Wobbly Steps
Starting a business is never easy, and Ross and his team faced plenty of hurdles, from finding manufacturers to convincing retailers and handling the serious business side of things. But with determination (and a LOT of sock-themed brainstorming), they made it work.
One of their proudest moments was appearing on Dragons’ Den and securing multiple offers! Ross was over the moon. He decided to go with the power combo of Steven Bartlett and Peter Jones. Why? Well, Peter is famous for rocking funky socks!
Socks That Tell a Story
Every pair of Stand Out Socks is designed to make people smile, start conversations, and spread awareness. Whether it’s the extra chromosome-inspired socks or their mismatched odd socks, these designs aren’t just about style—they’re about making a statement.
The response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive, customers LOVE it. People wear them on World Down Syndrome Day, gift them to friends, and use them as an everyday reminder that everyone deserves a chance to shine.
Building a Workplace Where Everyone Belongs.
Ross and his team don’t just sell socks; they create job opportunities for people with learning disabilities. At Stand Out Socks, employees do everything from packing orders to hosting TikTok Lives (yes, they’re social media stars too!).
Ross and the team
The best feedback that the team gets is seeing how these jobs boost confidence, independence, and happiness. As Ross says, “It’s not just about making money; it’s about making a difference".
The Future? More Socks, More Inclusion, More Fun!
Since appearing on Dragons’ Den, Stand Out Socks has taken off! They’ve expanded to new retailers, launched on Amazon, and started shipping their socks all over the world.
What’s next? More sock designs, more job opportunities, and maybe even new products beyond socks! In fact, they have launched some incredibly fun t-shirts and hoodies!.
For Ross, the goal is simple: keep growing, keep hiring, and keep breaking barriers. He dreams of a world where businesses embrace inclusion, where everyone gets a fair chance, and where socks bring people together in the best way possible.
Ross’s Advice: Be Happy, Work Hard, and Believe in Yourself!
If Ross could share one piece of advice with anyone dreaming of starting their own business, it would be: “Find something you love, work hard, and don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t do.” Never underestimate the power of a great pair of socks am I right!
So next time you’re looking to add some flair to your feet AND support an amazing cause, check out Stand Out Socks. Because standing out is what life’s all about! I hope you have enjoyed reading about Ross and his incredibly inspiring journey. I absolutely love supporting Stand Out Socks and connecting them with other inspiring individuals who are breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes. Take care, thank you for reading, and Vegoutt everybody!
My friend David, proudly holding up a pair of Stand Out Socks
