Most of my life, I was questioning myself on what fashion is. Is it only trends or do I have to have expensive clothes to look cool? Or maybe it’s just clothes that we pay too much attention to. I didn’t have any answers to these questions, until I realized who I am and what my values are.
Fashion comes in different shapes and forms. Fashion is the way we represent ourselves in this world and we might not think about this, but our outfits tell a lot about us. It’s a full story captured in a single outfit. And lately, the voice of fashion has become a powerful protest in the fight for freedom and rights. From the queer icons and activists who have paved the way for the rights and protections of the LGBTQ+ community to the voices that are currently taking part in the fight against homophobia and transphobia. When it comes to the fashion industry in particular, the new generations don’t pay attention to your name or popularity, but what your values are and what you stand for.
According to The Akin’s The Generation Report, “Gen Z and Millennials actively seek out information on brands’ practices and product origins or manufacturing,” and “70% believe brands have more power than governments to make a change.” Today’s consumers would easily switch brands due to a lack of social work or a conflict in values. And you are part of this demographic too, which means you have the same power over the choices you make as a consumer.
What better way to mark the Pride Month than by supporting the brands that are actually taking part in the fight for queer visibility? In order to help you pick the right brands to support this month and after, we’ve listed some brands below which are either LGBTQ+ owned and operated, celebrating gender and sexuality diversity, or supporting the community in innovative and charitable ways.
1. Telfar
You’ve probably seen the famous Telfar shopping bag, AKA the “Bushwick Birkin,” that has been taking the Internet by storm over the past few years. Telfar was created by queer Liberian-American designer, Telfar Clemens, who launched the brand in 2003. While the shopping bags are the most popular item, Telfar also offers shirts, shoes, jewelry, hats, and other apparel, along with collaborations with UGG and Converse.
2. Phlemuns
Founded by James Flemons in 2013, Phlemuns is a Black-owned, queer-owned, unisex fashion label based in Los Angeles. Phlemuns takes an “inclusive slow-fashion” approach to clothing, crafting unique and interesting tops, bottoms, dresses, and sets for all gender identities.
3. Private Policy
If you’re looking for a variety of fashion choices that look unique and stunning, check out Private Policy. Founded by Siying Qu and Haoran Li, Private Policy is a genderless fashion label that has a wide variety of shirts, tops, bottoms, and dresses that are sure to make you look amazing.
ROARA Magazine 