Every June, Pride Month sparks a wave of corporate rainbow-washing, with companies releasing limited-edition collections and vying for LGBTQ+ dollars. However, many queer-owned businesses are committed to supporting the community year-round, offering products that cater to diverse identities and experiences.
These brands go beyond seasonal activismproviding solutions that address everyday challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Whether it’s gender-affirming underwearartistic expressions of identityor fashion-forward accessoriesthese founders are making a tangible difference.
Not-Basic Pride Merch
The market is flooded with generic Pride merchandise, but these brands offer something truly unique. Ash & Chessfounded by queer and trans couple Ashley Molesso and Chess Needham, creates hilarious greeting cards and powerful T-shirts that advocate for trans youth. Their brick-and-mortar store, Everywhere Shop in Kingston, NY, is a testament to their commitment to the community.
Bianca’s Designsrun by a queer Latine designer based in Queens, New York, offers cutesy enamel pins, patches, and stickers. After a brief hiatus, Bianca is back with a renewed passion for creating stationery that resonates with the LGBTQ+ community. Meanwhile, Austin, Texas-based Emily Bryn of Emsbrynart designs T-shirts that promote safety and inclusivity, using secondhand materials for a unique, eco-friendly touch.
Queerly Designs started as an Etsy shop in 2018, offering sassy T-shirts that friends couldn’t resist. Founder Amanda’s creations have since evolved into a full website with an extensive inventory. For those looking to make a statement, The Phluid Project offers march-ready merchandise that supports The Phluid Foundation, which has raised over $1 million for LGBTQ+ grassroots organizations.
Accessories with a Purpose
When it comes to accessories, Automic Gold stands out with its ethical, comfortable, and size-inclusive fine jewelry. Founder Al Sandimir’s dainty, minimal styles are perfect for everyday wear. For luxury handbags that have adorned the arms of celebrities like Oprah and Kim Kardashian, Brandon Blackwood is celebrating its 10th anniversary with accessible yet high-end designs.
Twin sisters Coco and Breezy Dotson of Coco & Breezy Eyewear have been a force in the eyewear industry since 2009, offering luxury sunglasses that exude cool factor and individuality. London-based Kurt Geiger is known for its rainbow-hued handbags and footwear, with a summer campaign featuring Emily Ratajkowski that showcases the brand’s fashion-forward approach. And let’s not forget Telfarthe creator of the iconic ‘Bushwick Birkin’ bag, which has taken many forms and continues to be a staple in the queer community.
Beauty and Wellness Innovations
The beauty industry has seen a surge in LGBTQ+-owned brands, offering products that cater to diverse gender expressions and skin types. About-Facefounded by Halsey, impressed with its high-quality makeup that stands out even without the celebrity attachment. The Performer Foundation and Glitter Fix Eye Paints are just a few of the standout products that have garnered praise.
AKT London was founded by two West End dancers who struggled to find a natural deodorant that could hold up to eight shows a week. Their super concentrated formula has become a holy grail for many. Alder New Yorka queer- and woman-owned vegan skincare brand, offers clean products verified by the Environmental Working Group. Their classic body bar soap is a favorite for its gentle exfoliation.
For those looking to experiment with their look, Freck Beauty offers a freckle pen that creates natural-looking faux freckles. Ghost Democracyfounded by beauty industry veteran Rex Chou, provides clean ingredients at an affordable price. Their Softglow Facial Oil is a favorite among those who think they hate face oils.
Other notable mentions include Good Lighta gender-inclusive skincare brand that donates 1% of sales to True Colors United; JVN Hairfounded by Queer Eye’s Jonathan Van Ness; and KimChi Chic Beautylaunched by RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant Kim Chi. These brands are just a few examples of the innovative products being created by LGBTQ+ founders in the beauty and wellness industry.
