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Since the first Pride march in 1970, the parade has been a platform for self-expression through personal style and dress. From audacious fashion to bold makeup and everything in between, dressing for the occasion often involves using fashion as social and political commentary.
Rooted in the Stonewall riots of 1969 which took place in New York City — where police raided a gay bar, Pride, among other things is both a commemoration of that occurance as well as a space to raise awareness on issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community today. We have rounded up the best fashion items to refresh your style with confidence and purpose. From traditional garments made by artisanal brands to contemporary pieces inspired by storytelling, discover the clothing labels to shop for this Pride Month.
1. Bien Abyé Giraffe Signature Silk Square Scarf
If you’re looking to elevate your personal style and embrace your inner fabulosity with a small but impactful accessory, wearing a scarf is one fun and easy way to do so. Whether you choose to put it around your neck, on your head or around your wrist or bag – it has the power to refresh the most basic outfit with sophistication or playfulness, depending on your mood. For an effortless take on this enduring trend and to add some edge to your look, consider Bien Abyé’s offering that comes in a graphic giraffe.
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2. Native Youth Mixed Bandana Patchwork Short Sleeve Cotton Sport Shirt
Perfect for humid and casual days in the city, a short-sleeve shirt is a multifunctional essential staple to add to your wardrobe. Designed sustainably in the UK, and with their products available at accessible prices, contemporary unisex fashion label, Native Youth, takes cues from its name with this youthful mixed bandana patchwork shirt in a flattering slim fit. With various styling options that range from donning it unbuttoned over a t-shirt or layering it with a lightweight knit or jacket, its non-restrive open collar oozes a casual and relaxed mood.
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3. Oak & Acorn Prayer Cotton Romper
Oak & Acorn is a New York-based genderless denim brand offering everyday clothing made from recycled and repurposed materials as well as eco-fibres like hemp and refribra. Founded by Miko Underwood in 2019, the label collaborates with artisans from around the world. In their latest collection they worked with weavers from Turkey to make Buldan, an indigenous handwoven textile, as well as indigo cloths from West Africa where they develop fabrics for their denim pieces. For comfort and ease, turn to the label’s streetwear-inspired lightweight and breathable cotton romper with a low-crotch silhouette.
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4. Keneth Ize Orange Striped Silk and Cotton-Blend Tank
Handmade in Italy and Nigeria by a team of local artisans, this orange tank top by Kenneth Ize is far from your basic white tank. Crafted from silk and cotton blend using traditional hand weaving methods, its vivid combination of trendy summer colours and eye-catching stripes makes it a must-have for the bold in style. Its versatility means you can pair it with the brand's matching pair of trousers for a daring and polished look, or dress it down with a pair of shorts for a laid-back style that still captures the joyful spirit of Pride Month.
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5. La Réunion Unisex One of a Kind Patch Stripe Jacket
Based in New York, Nigerian-American textile artist and designer, Sarah Nsikak’s garments are heavily influenced by her African heritage and history. Nsikak's commitment to storytelling sees her using her label, La Réunion, as a platform to share untold stories about the continent and its people. Her patchwork dresses for example, are inspired by the Herero women of Namibia who adopted the patchwork style as an act of rebellion after surviving a colonial war with the German Empire in the early 19th century. With sustainability at the forefront of the brand, Nsikak’s quilted and patchwork jackets, bags and summary frocks are all sewn from a mix of offcuts and vintage fabrics.