How Designer Brands Support LGBTQ+
You might not know it, but many high-end fashion brands are staunch allies of the LGBTQ+ community. These brands are working hard to create an inclusive world for all, from donating to LGBTQ+ charities to using their platforms to speak out against discrimination.
Brands like Coach, Versace, and Michael Kors have all come out supporting the rights of queer people and have created campaigns and merchandise to show their solidarity.
These brands send a powerful message that everyone is welcome, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We reveal the designer brands who are helping to support the cause. So next time you're shopping for luxury goods, consider purchasing something from one of these iconic brands.
LGBTQ in the Luxury Fashion World
LGBTQ+ people have played a significant role in the luxury fashion industry. The fashion house of Givenchy was founded by the gay designer Hubert de Givenchy, who became famous for dressing Audrey Hepburn in films like "Sabrina" and "Breakfast at Tiffany's."
You may have noticed that a large majority of luxury fashion designers are, in fact, gay men. This is no coincidence- fashion is drawn to uniqueness, and what could be more unique than a queer perspective?
Fashion has always been about pushing boundaries and breaking down norms. Gay men have been at the forefront of this movement. From trailblazers like Yves Saint Laurent and Karl Lagerfeld to contemporary visionaries like Alessandro Michele and Raf Simons, gay men have always been at the forefront of fashion.
And as society becomes more accepting of queer people, we are beginning to see more openly gay designers making a name for themselves in the industry.
Versace
Versace has just released a new collection, including a unisex beret and tee shirt, perfect for showing off your unique style. This new collection solidifies Versace's continued support of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Versace works with Lady Gaga's Born This Way Foundation. This non-profit organization was co-founded by Lady Gaga and her mother. The foundation is dedicated to supporting young people's mental health and empowering them to create a kinder and braver world.
Burberry
This Pride month, Burberry is reaffirming its support for the LGBTQ+ community through various initiatives. The brand has partnered with the Stonewall Community Foundation to support its work in empowering queer youth and fostering connections within the LGBTQ+ community.
Burberry continues its long-standing support of the Albert Kennedy Trust (AKT), the UK's national LGBTQ+ youth homelessness charity. AKT provides safe homes and emotional support to young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or living in a hostile environment.
Each year, AKT supports young people through its four core services: housing, mentoring, training and employment, and advocacy.
Balenciaga
Demna Gvasalia, the designer and creative chief at Balenciaga, launched upcoming capsules to help communities in honor of the International Pride Month.
The Balenciaga Fall/Winter 2018-2022 collections show the brand's commitment to the LGBTQ+ community through rainbow flags and sweats. 10% of the proceeds will be donated to charitable organizations that focus on ending discrimination and violence toward the LGBTQ+ community.
He has also used his voice to discuss race, sustainability, and classism within the fashion industry.
Le Tanneur
The Le Tanneur brand launched a capsule called "Love is Love." This collection is a celebration of the month of pride and contains five of the house's best-known pieces available in six colors of the rainbow.
The launch of this collection also represents another way in which the French company will provide financial aid to Inter-LGBT organizations. In addition to supporting a great cause, you'll also be getting your hands on some seriously stylish pieces that you'll be proud to show off.
Calvin Klein
The famous fashion designer launched the #ProudinmyCalvins. This campaign features a series of short films highlighting the stories of individuals who have overcome adversity to claim their place in the world.
By sharing these powerful stories, Calvin Klein is helping foster a more inclusive society. In addition to the films, the #ProudinmyCalvins hashtag is used to promote discussion and raise awareness about LGBTQ rights.
As a result, Calvin Klein is not only promoting its own brand but is also making a positive impact on the world.
Ludovic de Saint Sernin
Ludovic de Saint Sernin is a fashion brand that includes gender-neutral designs, meaning that they can be worn by anyone regardless of gender identity.
The brand's mission is to break down the barriers between genders and promote self-expression. Ludovic de Saint Sernin's collections are full of unique pieces that anyone would love to wear.
As a young person in the LGBTQIA+ community, it's essential to feel celebrated. Designer Ludovic de Saint Sernin created a capsule collection that celebrates love, sexuality, and freedom.
Coach
Coach celebrates Pride Month and the progress made in the fight for equality. Stasha Sanchez, Bob the Drag Queen, and other LGBTQ+ icons are featured throughout the collection.
The colors of each product have also been specifically chosen to reflect the diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. While the collection's overall message is positivity and support, it is also important to remember that every individual has a unique story.
These products are meant to serve as a reminder that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued. Whether you are part of the LGBTQIA+ community or an ally, these products can help show support for equality and inclusion.
Michael Kors
Kors collaborated with Paper and Paper to design and develop a capsule containing t-shirts, sweatshirts, and shorts with embroidery highlighting colors. In addition to being fashion-forward, the items in the capsule are also highly practical. Making them perfect for wearing during pride parades or any other outdoor event. With their message of inclusion and love, the garments in this collection are sure to make a powerful statement.
Savage x Fenty
Inclusivity can be difficult to come by in the fashion and beauty industry- which is why Rihanna's Savage x Fenty line is so important. Not only does the line carry a wide range of sizing, but it also celebrates love in all forms with its Pride Month capsule.
Featuring items like underwear robes, socks, and rainbow whips- all of which help celebrate love in a fun and unique way. Rihanna has always been an outspoken supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community. This capsule is just one more way she shows her love and support.
What is an LGBTQ-owned Business?
A business whose ownership has been at least 51% regulated by an LGBT person. Many of these companies celebrate Pride Month in June by flying rainbow flags, displaying pride banners, and offering special promotions.
By supporting LGBTQ, not only are you helping to promote inclusion and diversity, but you're also supporting businesses that are owned and operated by members of a once marginalized community.
What is The Trevor Project?
The Trevor Project also provides educators and parents with resources to support LGBTQ youth. By offering these vital services, the Trevor Project is working to prevent suicide among gay and transgender youth and create a more inclusive world for all.
Embracing Diversity in the Fashion Industry
Today, luxury brands are increasingly embracing diversity and acceptance, with many featuring LGBTQ+ models and designers as a way to appeal to a broader range of consumers.
This shift shows that luxury brands are becoming more inclusive and aware of the buying power of the LGBTQ+ community and its supporters.
During Pride month, it's essential to remember that the fight for equality is far from over. But with the support of allies and businesses like these, we are one step closer.
To do our part, when you purchase from FINMO'S pride collection, we will donate X% towards causes supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
But you don't need to buy anything to help. Here is a list of organizations you can donate to directly:
