I still remember the first time I attended a Pilates class. I got there early, sat in my car, and felt completely terrified at the thought of trying something new. But if life has taught me anything, it’s this: when you feel that kind of fear, lean into it—it usually means something great is on the other side. (Case in point: Ruby.)
So it didn’t surprise me when I fell in love with Pilates. In fact, the resistance I felt beforehand almost confirmed it. I had found something I knew I’d stick with for the rest of my life.
Pilates challenged me in ways I didn’t expect. The slow, controlled movements? Brutal—in the best way. The focus on form, alignment, and breath? Completely different from anything I was used to as a former college rugby player and marathon runner. It’s the kind of workout that looks graceful from the outside but leaves your muscles shaking, quietly questioning every life choice that brought you there.
And somehow, that’s exactly why I love it.
There’s something deeply intentional about Pilates. It forces you to slow down and truly connect with your body and your breath—to notice the small things, the subtle shifts, the muscles you didn’t even realize you weren’t activating. It’s not about rushing through a workout or chasing exhaustion. It’s about control, strength, and showing up for yourself with focus and purpose.
Over time, it became more than just a workout. It became something I genuinely looked forward to—a reset. A space where I could step away from the noise and just be present.
And of course, as I started going more regularly… I started noticing the socks.
If you’ve ever taken a Pilates class, you know exactly what I mean. Grip socks are everywhere. At first, I didn’t think much of them—they felt like part of the uniform. Something you needed for safety and stability on the reformer.
But the more I wore them, the more I realized how much they actually matter.
A good pair of grip socks isn’t just about traction (although that part is very important—ask anyone fighting for their life on a Bosu ball). It’s about feeling secure and supported as you move. It’s about not slipping when you’re holding a position your body is already questioning. It’s about confidence—being able to focus on the movement itself instead of worrying about your footing.
And naturally, my brain went exactly where you think it did.
Socks.
It felt like such an obvious connection, I almost laughed when it clicked. Here I was, already building a brand centered around socks—and suddenly, there was this entirely new category in front of me. One that aligned perfectly with everything I care about: movement, strength, and supporting women in doing hard things.
So I started paying closer attention.
What did I love about the grip socks I owned? What didn’t I love? What would I change? What would make them not just functional, but genuinely fun to wear?
Because if there’s one thing I believe, it’s that the little details matter. The things you wear while you move, while you work, while you push yourself—they should feel good. They should reflect who you are. And in true Ruby fashion, they should be made with the highest quality possible.
That’s where this next chapter of Ruby begins.
I’ve started designing grip socks made not just for Pilates, but for the full experience of it. Socks that feel secure and supportive, yes—but also bold, fun, and a little unexpected. The kind that make you feel put together the moment you walk into the studio, while still letting your practice feel entirely your own.
Because Pilates, to me, isn’t just about the workout. It’s about how you feel while you’re doing it: strong, grounded, capable.
And your socks should rise to that energy.
This is just the beginning of this chapter. I’m still learning, still experimenting, still figuring out exactly what Ruby can become in this space—and that’s part of what makes it exciting.
If Pilates has taught me anything, it’s that growth doesn’t happen all at once. It happens in small, controlled movements. In showing up consistently. In being willing to try, adjust, and try again.
So here we are.
Leaning into something new. Creating something fun.
And, of course… making socks along the way.
Thanks for being here, I’m so glad!
Love, Emily
