Spanx: Shaping retail in King of Prussia

By now we're certain you've heard of Spanx, the miracle hosiery product endorsed by Oprah in 2000.

12 fruitful years later, and with more than 200 products amassed as part of its expanding empire, Spanx announced this summer that it was setting up its first standalone retail stores. The first location opened in October at Tysons Corner in Virginia, the second opens Friday at the King of Prussia Mall. But that's not it!

Local women will finally have the opportunity to personally thank (and/or flash) the force behind the brand. Spanx founder Sara Blakely will be at the store's official opening at 10 a.m.

For those of you who aren't familiar with Blakely's story - with an initial investment of $5,000, the self-made billionaire watched as her fortune grew exponentially in the last decade, all without any advertising support or external investments. Not only was she listed as one of TIME's 100 Most Influential People List, but Forbes ran a cover story on Blakely earlier this year dubbing her, "the world's youngest, self-made female billionaire."

We're told that the first 100 fans to arrive at the store Friday morning will receive a complimentary Spanx product (free!). There will also be a hosiery ribbon cutting ceremony (fun!) and a donation made out to local fundraising coalition Women's Way.

Event details: Official opening, 10 a.m., Friday, November 9, 2012, Spanx, located in the upper level of the Plaza near Lord & Taylor, King of Prussia Mall.