Get to Know: Cayla O'Connell Davis of Knickey

We care so much about what we put into our bodies so why don’t we care about what goes on them? Especially down there. Did you know that most underwear made with synthetic fabrics has harmful chemicals? Yeah, same. That’s the reason about 300 million women suffer from yeast, vaginal, and bladder infections each year. Scary stuff.

This is exactly why Cayla O’Connell Davis started Knickey.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE “WHAT YOU DO” IN ONE SENTENCE?

That is difficult to contain in one sentence - in any given day I wear every hat in our company - whether its making strategic decisions about the business, balancing the P&L, picking out submits from our manufacturer or responding to our customer inquiries! But if I were to reduce ‘what I do’ into one sentence - it would be furthering the fashion industry in its pursuit toward sustainable practices that may better benefit both the earth and its inhabitants.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE BRAND EXPERIENCE- OTHER THAN YOUR OWN?

I love Care/Of’s branding, website, UX, unboxing - the whole nine! I have been a dedicated customer since their early days and think that they may the daily chore of vitamin consumption exciting. Plus their supplement packages are now compostable! Would love for Knickey to someday collaborate with them on a custom box design or daily ritual campaign!

WHAT GETS YOU EXCITED EVERY DAY?

Building a brand that positively contributes to our global supply chain, and that resonates with a super engaged community all over the world.

WHO’S YOUR IDOL?

I’m not sure I have an Idol, though I admire so many people - both recognizable, and simply within my friends and family. My parents set an incredible example for me to follow my passions, and I value that outlook as well as their work ethics every day.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO DISCONNECT AND DE-STRESS?

Depending on the season - I love walking on the West Side Highway during the fall and summer, and doing a puzzle or crossword by the fireplace in the winter.

WHAT CAN YOU NOT LEAVE HOME WITHOUT?

Sunglasses, headphones, my laptop and a water bottle.

WHAT’S YOUR SPIRIT ANIMAL?

Definitely a Cheetah. I like to move quickly and with agility. I believe in working smart, not hard. I sleep deep, and I love a fabulous print!

WHAT’S YOUR CURRENT FAVORITE PODCAST?

Right now I have been working my way through Startup Therapy, and I love Reed Hoffman’s Masters of Scale. I listen to The Daily and am a time-honored devotee to Planet Money whenever I have a few minutes to spare - I love listening to old episodes again!

WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE SOMEONE WANTING TO START THEIR OWN BRAND?

Ah! It is so hard to distill anything down to ‘one’ soundbite -- there truly is so much to know and absorb- but perhaps that it is it - prepare to be a sponge and take in any and all things that you can! Not all advice will apply to you, and not all paths will be yours - but knowing what not to do can be just as important as what to do when embarking on an entrepreneurial pursuit!