LGBTQ+ Sustainable Brands to Support this Pride
June 7, 2021It’s Pride month once again! And what better way to celebrate than dressed head to toe in queer attire? But do you know the true impact of your Pride clothing?
With the fast fashion industry being the third biggest polluter in the world, creating more carbon emissions than aviation and shipping combined, we can no longer ignore the global impact of our wardrobe choices. High street fashion brands often do everything they can to reduce production costs, including cutting corners when it comes to protecting our planet. On top of this, less than 2% of garment workers are paid a living wage, despite the fashion industry being worth over US$1.2 trillion annually.
It’s very hard to be proud of an industry embedded in exploitation and overconsumption. But, luckily, many LGBTQ+ brands are changing this. Here’s our list of the top queer ethical brands to support this Pride.
1). Chromat
This bodywear brand is all about empowerment of all shapes and sizes. They describe the motivation behind the brand “We hope that every time you wear Chromat, it reinforces the message that there are many different versions of beautiful and that everybody is worthy of love, acceptance and empowering swimwear.”
Founded by queer creative Becca McCharen-Tran they’ve become well-known for their body diverse runways and celebration of LGBTQ+ identities.
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2). femme forte
femme forte is an ethical fashion brand. They exist to offer a sustainable fashion option which is why everything they make is 100% vegan, sweatshop-free and does not hurt our planet. Their range is completely gender neutral and each collection raises money for a different cause, including trans young people (Mermaids), LGBTQ+ homeless youth (akt) and period poverty (Bloody Good Period).
With a range varying from streetwear to prints, tote bags and more, they blend activism, fashion and brightly coloured designs. Sustainability and inclusivity are an authentic commitment to them and this shows in everything they make.
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3). Depop
Why not buy second-hand this Pride? And what better place to do so than Depop. With plenty of LGBTQ+ brands to choose from, it’s an easy way to support the queer community and be kind to the planet this Pride.
From performance artist, Michael Boardii’s shop, to customised vintage pieces by Jade Laurice and second-hand finds by writer and musician Naeeja, many LGBTQ+ sellers are on Depop, so there’s plenty of variety and creativity to pick from. Search using their #QueerOnDepop hashtag, launched earlier this year to highlight LGBTQ+ sellers, to find your favourites.
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4). Automic Gold
Describing themselves as “radically ethical” this jewellery brand is committed to only using 100% reclaimed solid gold. The LGBTQ+-owned shop is the only retailer with sizes 2-16 available and they offer all jewellery as fully customizable. This shop is fully unique, and brings together inclusivity and sustainably perfectly!
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5). Cagey’s Planet
Cagey’s Planet is revolutionising fashion with its independent and ethical streetwear label. They were founded in 2016 by Australian-based Carolyn Cage and have raised money and awareness around a range of issues they care about, including mental health, climate change and supporting LGBTQ+ youth.
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6). The Gay Agenda
These LGBT+ t-shirts are Pride essentials, but also perfect for every day. Plus 10% of all sales go towards supporting LGBT+ charities, what’s not to like?
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7). Shape Shifters
Shape Shifters are a fashionable, size-inclusive and gender affirming brand. Having started as a small Etsy shop, they’ve grown to having their own studio and orders around the world. They offer binders in all sizes, colours and designs, and each one is made to size to make sure it fits perfectly!
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8). Area Eighteen
This eco-fashion vintage clothing store is all about smashing down barriers and saying goodbye to conformity. As a platform, they are here to rebel against the constraints of modern-day society and for anybody passionate about social change.
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