‘One of the most influential people in the world of patents, textiles, and fashion. She possesses a deep understanding of intellectual properties and continues to make waves in the industry with no signs of slowing down.’ – Vaughn Lowery
Tosha Hays is an accomplished inventor, entrepreneur, and fashion executive with a wealth of experience in the textiles and fashion industry. A graduate of the University of Georgia, she earned her degree in Textiles and Fashion Merchandising before furthering her studies in Fashion Design at Parsons School of Design and Seattle Central College.
Tosha began her career as an intern for Bella Freud, the granddaughter of Sigmund Freud, gaining invaluable insights into high-end fashion. She then honed her skills as a merchandiser for Tommy Hilfiger before founding Tosha Hays Children’s Collection, which gained recognition by selling in prestigious retailers domestically and internationally such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Takashimaya.
Tosha’s experience at SPANX, Inc. as Head of Product Development & Design from 2006 to 2014 was a defining chapter in her career. She played a crucial role in driving a 200% growth during her tenure, expanding the brand globally. Under her leadership, SPANX consistently created patentable products, securing a competitive edge in the market. Tosha successfully launched multiple new brands, capturing market share and consistently exceeding revenue targets, solidifying SPANX‘s position as an iconic global leader in shapewear, intimates, and apparel.
As co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer of brrr°, a textile technology company, Tosha has been at the forefront of fabric innovation. Her work there has contributed to numerous advancements in cooling fabrics and moisture management technologies. Additionally, she holds 10 patents related to fabric and soft goods innovations.
Tosha also served as Chief Product Officer for Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA), an institute supported by MIT, the Department of Defense, and the state of Massachusetts. In addition to these roles, Tosha runs TLH Designs, a consulting firm dedicated to helping entrepreneurs develop and commercialize their ideas. As Chief Growth Officer for Blogilates and Popflex Active under renowned entrepreneur Cassey Ho, she played a pivotal role in expanding these brands’ reach into retailers such as Target, Inc.
Currently serving as Executive Vice President of Product and Sourcing for Venus Fashion Inc., Tosha continues to drive product development forward with a focus on integrating AI into product creation and advanced methods for determining customer sentiment on assortments. She is also a co-inventor and co-founder of Hurdle Apparel Inc., where they hold a patented sock design featuring an integrated polymer matrix, the first of its kind. Recognized early in her career with WWD’s Fresh Face Award and honored as a UGA 40 Under 40 recipient, Tosha remains committed to pushing boundaries within the fabric and fashion industry while empowering others along their entrepreneurial journeys. Outside of her professional endeavors, she enjoys spending quality time with her three sons and partner—who is also an inventor in the advanced fiber industry—as well as running to stay active and inspired.
Fun Facts
- Designed the World’s First Digitally connected backpack with MIT/AFFOA and Jansport
- 10-11 patents (Need to double check count)
- First job with Bella Freud in London (Sigmund Freud)
- Started first business at 22 and launched in Saks Fifth Avenue at 1st showing and request by Ralph Lauren design team for private label
- Began designing at age 9
- Designs featured in InStyle.
- Recently featured in Forbes for petite launch with Venus Fashion Inc.
Photo credit: David Lamer
