7 Queer Fashion Designers on LGBTQ+ Industry Representation
7 Queer Brands Doing the Work to Make Fashion Visibly More Inclusive
August Getty
"Try on as many creative hats (or wigs) that you physically or metaphorically can."
LA-based designer August Getty, who is known for dressing the likes of Kim Kardashian, Paris Hilton, Katy Perry, and Miley Cyrus, focused on the launch of his TINITUS collection while in lockdown, and it depicts a world that is a safe place where emotions are projected as different colors and sounds. The digital space uses technology like CGI software to hone in on the details of Getty's couture pieces and will be fully revealed in July 2021 during Paris Haute Couture Week. The user is meant to imagine themself here and seek unity, inclusivity, prosperity, hope, peace, and acceptance.
Image Source: August Getty Atelier
The pandemic made me realize . . . "the state of the world has been severely affecting the mental health of so many of us. I am angered that so many communities don't feel safe in this world. I've been doing a lot of self-reflecting and going back to my roots. The bravery grew inside of me to dig deeper into who I authentically am as a person, and I came out as nonbinary."
An inclusive designer knows that . . . "fashion helps people express who they are, and inclusive designs should have endless, genderless freedom and should be created for people of all different races, ethnicities, ages, and identities. Many of Jean Paul Gaultier's collections are good examples of this, as his clothing skewers gender binaries, incorporates a wide variety of cultures, and is made for different body types, among other things."
Some of my proudest dressings include . . . "Angelica Ross and Dominique Jackson from Pose, two phenomenal actresses from such a powerful show. I'm also proud of dressing my siblings and dearest friends, Nats Getty and Gigi Gorgeous, Markus Molinari, Hayley Hasselhoff, and Gottmik, who has worn several of my designs on season 13 of RuPaul's Drag Race, showcasing his drag aesthetic as well as his chest. Gottmik has become a huge role model for trans men and the queer community across the globe."
A young queer person interested in the fashion industry should . . . "Love yourself as a human being and as a creative and believe in yourself. Try on as many creative hats (or wigs) that you physically or metaphorically can. You can never anticipate which direction your path will take so stand firm in your dream, work hard, and take things as they come. Create every day because your art and your voice are valid."
As an LGBTQ+ designer, it's my responsibility to . . . "be as loud as I possibly can be about representation and inclusivity for all and support organizations that do incredible work for our community, such as GLAAD, amfAR, and the Los Angeles LGBT Center. I will continue to be an outspoken designer, using my platform to protect our community and to create clothing that is inclusive."
