Pride Month 2024: A More Meaningful Rainbow
Pride Month 2024 isn’t your average celebration. While significant progress has been made in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, battles for equality and the growing visibility of transgender and non-binary identities continue. Pride in 2024 is a chance to recommit to creating a world that celebrates the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ experiences, from the flamboyant and fierce to the quiet and introspective. Thankfully, many brands are standing with the community, but this year, there’s a shift towards more impactful support. Gone are the days of simply slapping a rainbow on a t-shirt. Brands are prioritising collaboration with LGBTQ+ artists and designers, ensuring a portion of proceeds goes towards organisations making a real difference on the ground, and using their platforms to amplify LGBTQ+ voices. Fashion with Pride: A Canvas for Self-Expression Let’s dive into the world of fashion, where self-expression reigns supreme. TomboyX: This LGBTQ+-founded brand continues to be a champion of inclusivity. Their gender-affirming undergarments, from binders and boxer briefs to sports bras and swimwear, are a game-changer for many in the LGBTQ+ community. Their vibrant Pride collection this year boasts a message of “Love Wins” splashed across tanks and tees. A portion of proceeds goes towards the National Centre for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), a vital organisation working to secure legal and economic justice for LGBTQ+ women, femmes, and people of colour. Madewell: Known for their comfy-chic aesthetic, Madewell’s “Love to All” collection boasts a simple yet powerful message of acceptance. The collection features everything from graphic tees and cosy sweatshirts to flowy dresses and denim jackets, all emblazoned with a rainbow heart motif. Fifty percent of proceeds benefit the ACLU, a vital organisation that fights for LGBTQ+ rights through legal action and advocacy, ensuring everyone has access to justice. Levi’s: A longstanding Pride supporter, Levi’s 2024 collection is more than just a fashion statement. It features designs by LGBTQ+ artists, celebrating the vibrant diversity of the community. This year, they’ve partnered with artist Sonya Sombreuil, whose bold and colorful work reflects the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ+ experience. Donations go to organizations like the Stonewall Community Foundation, which provides crucial grants to LGBTQ+ organizations across the country, and Minus18, an organization that provides crisis intervention and support services to LGBTQ+ youth. Calvin Klein: This iconic brand isn’t shying away from self-expression. Their 2024 campaign features actor Jeremy Pope, known for his roles in films like “Hollywood” and “Cherry,” alongside a collection designed to empower everyone to embrace their true selves. There is something for everyone in the collection with its statement pieces, classic silhouettes, and vibrant colours. A portion of proceeds goes to the Trevor Project, a lifeline for LGBTQ+ youth providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services. Dockers: Celebrating their seventh year of Pride collaboration, Dockers offers a collection designed by artist Rawley Clark. It’s a fusion of style and purpose, with bold geometric prints and a color palette that pops. Donations go to the Stonewall Community Foundation to support ongoing LGBTQ+ initiatives, including educational programmes, health services, and advocacy efforts. Beyond Apparel: Pride in Every Aisle Fashion isn’t the only space where brands are making a statement. Let’s explore some brands taking action beyond the clothing rack: Nike: It’s not just about the iconic swoosh. Their “Be True” collection offers vibrant takes on classic sneakers like Air Maxes and Blazers, featuring rainbow detailing and inclusive messaging. They also expand their collection to include performance apparel, with everything from sports bras and leggings to shorts and tees, ensuring everyone can participate in their favourite activities with pride. More importantly, over $3 million is donated to LGBTQ+ organisations like Athlete Ally and the National Centre for Transgender Equality, making a significant financial impact on these vital organisations. Adidas: This sportswear giant isn’t just about performance. They’ve partnered with Australian artist Kris Andrew Small, known for his vibrant and inclusive illustrations, for a collection that celebrates the spirit of unity. The collection features everything from tracksuits and hoodies to running shoes and gym bags, all adorned with Small’s signature style. Proceeds benefit Athlete Ally and Stonewall UK, organisations fighting for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports at all levels, from professional leagues to local gyms. Apple: More than just a fabulous Pride watch band (though they do have one! ), Apple goes a step further. They donate to organisations like the Human Rights Campaign and National Centre for Transgender Equality, advocating for change at a systemic level. They also use their platform to amplify Beauty with Pride: Celebrating Every Shade Beauty transcends the superficial. Let’s explore some brands that are using their products and platforms to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community in all its vibrant diversity: Ulta Beauty: Shop their curated selection of Pride-themed makeup kits, featuring a range of colors and shades to suit everyone’s unique style. This year, the kits include eyeshadow palettes with bold rainbow hues, shimmering lipsticks in every shade imaginable, and glittery highlighters for an extra dose of sparkle. A portion of proceeds goes to The Trevor Project, a vital resource for LGBTQ+ youth providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services. Fenty Beauty: Rihanna’s inclusive beauty brand offers a dazzling highlighter in limited-edition Pride packaging this year. The highlighter comes in a range of shades to flatter all skin tones, and the packaging features a vibrant rainbow design. Donations go to GLAAD, a media monitoring organisation that works to ensure accurate and respectful representation of LGBTQ+ people in the media. Glossier: Known for their “dew-y” makeup aesthetic, Glossier offers a limited-edition Pride sticker set this year. The stickers feature positive affirmations like “Love is love” and “Be you” in Glossier’s signature minimalist font. While it may seem like a small gesture, the stickers are a reminder to embrace your individuality and celebrate self-love. Proceeds go to The Centre, a community centre in New York City that provides vital resources and support services to LGBTQ+ people. Beyond Retail: Pride in Action While shopping can be a fun way to celebrate Pride, it’s important to remember
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