5 LGBTQIA+ Brands to Know
By Elana Katz
Every year around June, we all see the same things; big box retailers and fast fashion brands trying to capitalize on Pride Month by releasing a lazy collection and then promptly forgetting about the LGBTQIA+ community the rest of the year. Some companies are worse than others and even have removed those items from their stores (ahem, Target), but most of them share a commonality of being performative.
Meanwhile, there are independent brands that are not only owned and operated by queer founders and designers but take care of supporting queer communities all year long. Shopping from these brands is a great way to put your dollars to good use and show you care, while also getting some incredible items in the process.
These aren’t just “LGBTQIA+ brands”, they’re fashion brands that take care in what they do, produce quality items, and have customers in mind rather than just dollars.
Wildfang
Wildfang represents everything that fast fashion retailers do not. Started by founder Emma McIlroy, the brand is reflective of its queer roots. Selling a wide range of items from gender-neutral pieces to tailored suits to comfortable dresses, Wildfang is truly for everyone. In addition to designing incredibly stylish and versatile pieces (peep those coveralls they’re known for), they’re also walking the walk and committed to doing actual good. Wildfang is a carbon-neutral brand, is focused on diversity and inclusion, and has taken the 1% Pledge to donate at least 1% of its revenue to organizations such as The Trevor Project, the ACLU, ProjectQ, Planned Parenthood, and more.
TomboyX
If only every brand cared as much for their customers as Tomboyx does. Co-founders Fran and Naomi originally set out to create products for people who weren’t being catered to, and today they make underwear, bras, swimwear, and more for the trans community and beyond. Their undergarments provide every level of coverage one would want, whether someone is looking for a thong or long boxer briefs. They also make tucking panties, compression bras, period underwear, and more — all in a variety of colors, styles, and prints in eco-friendly fabrics. With a large selection of products that go up to size 6X, there’s something for everyone.
JZD
You may remember a slew of celebrities wearing a viral T-shirt that said “Latina Power” on it a few years ago. What you may not know is that the brand that made that shirt (and still does) was started by a queer married couple, Jen and Vero, who design a great assortment of other items too. Their products are ethically made and many boast screen-printed phrases that make it clear they’re a safe space for their Latinx and queer customers, like “Amor es Amor” and “Bien Gay”. Aside from clothes, JZD also sells accessories, home decor, stationery, and other fun items!
Nicole Zizi Studio
Sustainability in fashion shouldn’t be a novelty, but alas, it’s still quite a feat to be able to claim. Nicole Zizi is a Black, queer artist who crafts drool-worthy pieces all with recycled, alternative, and natural materials. All of the items the brand makes are gender-neutral, meaning there is no limit to who can enjoy these works of art. The pieces are timeless and made with care, such as patchwork denim jackets and pants dyed, woven, and sewn by hand. In addition to the gender-free nature of the items, Nicole Zizi Studio also offers a made-to-measure option for some of the clothing so that standard sizing doesn’t have to be a barrier to someone getting clothing that fits perfectly.
FLAVNT Streetwear
Started by twins Chris and Courtney in Austin, Texas, FLAVNT Streetwear is truly a brand by and for queer people. They’re committed to creating clothing that goes beyond the gender binary and uplifts their community, which is evident by their selection of pieces and use of models of every identity. The name FLAVNT itself comes from a desire for everyone to feel free to flaunt their true selves. In addition to a variety of binders, the brand also makes t-shirts, sweatshirts, tank tops, and everything in between. You’ll find items proudly emblazoned with phrases like “Let Trans Kids Grow Up”, and binders created with comfort in mind in a multitude of skin tones. FLAVNT’s items are fun and colorful, but their message rings true and important on each one. With over $50K raised for gender-affirming surgeries and LGBTQIA+ causes, there’s no question that supporting a brand like FLAVNT does some good.
While these five queer-owned brands are excellent ones to support this June, it’s crucial to note that these are only five of many. Whether it’s Pride Month or any time of the year, it’s more important than ever to vote with your dollars. Support brands like these and the plethora of others out there rather than picking up a rainbow shirt from a big corporation that doesn’t care about anything but your money.