Celebrating Pride Month: The Icons of Luxury
by Central HULA on Jun 07, 2023
In celebration of pride month, we are honouring the LQBTQ+ history of luxury fashion by exploring the influence of queerness on some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Let’s take a glimpse into the lives of these fashion designer icons!
Alexander McQueen
The late, London-based designer created autobiographical collections that reflected his journey of accepting his sexuality and identity. Many describe his work as dark, mystical, and thought-provoking. The designer was known for challenging social norms by blending innovative designs with tradition. He explored various ideas that only entered the mainstream discussions years later, such as his S/S 1999 show which advocated for inclusivity and body positivity through a diverse cast of models.
Top Picks
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| Black Flower and Skull Jacquard Cashmere Scarf | Black cotton-blend scuba zip logo-embellished crewneck pullover peplum hoodie ( IT40) | Black lace handkerchief skirt with black shorts lining (L) |
Discover more preloved Alexander McQueen pieces
Yves Saint Laurent
The French designer became Dior’s protégé at 17 and became the house’s creative designer in 1957 after Dior’s death. YSL has always been known for challenging gender norms through its androgynous aesthetic, introducing pants into women’s wardrobes, among other bold fashion moves. Although the designer retired in 2002, remnants of the brand’s early rebelliousness are still present in the edgy-chic aesthetic that exists in their current designs.
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| Black denim skirt with asymmetrical with buckle and zip (28) | Black suede and leather Kiki pull-on over-the-knee heel boots (EU38) | Mombasa shoulder bag in black nappa leather |
Discover more preloved YSL pieces
Michael Kors
In a Vogue interview, Kors revealed that he had always been aware of his queerness since he was a child but struggled to be open about his sexuality until university. Becoming a part of the gay community at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City created a sense of belonging that allowed him to fully accept himself. Throughout this time, the Kor has always demonstrated a passion for fashion design which was celebrated by his family.
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| Grey and white leather lace up platform espadrille | Heather grey cotton short sleeve belted sheath dress maxi skirt with elastic band (US4) |
Discover more preloved Michael Kors pieces
Gianni Versace
Gianni was confident and proud to be gay in the 90s despite living through an era riddled with homophobia. His bold, colourful designs can be seen as a reflection of his free and open-minded attitude towards fashion and being different. His sister, Donatella, carries on his legacy today through the brand's extravagantly luxurious designs today as the vice president of the Versace Group.
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| Black mixed media cotton-blend paneled logo hoodie (IT36) | Black pointed toe knee length high heel leather boots (EU37) | Pink quilted leather top handle bag |
Discover more preloved Michael Kors pieces
Jil Sander
The German designer is known for her minimalist, androgynous designs that blur clothing gender norms. Her clothing is partly inspired by her own clothing needs as a working woman while continuing to embrace femininity and delicateness. Despite Sander’s departure from the brand, the house continues to blend fashion and functionality in its designs today.
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| Black short-sleeved knee length dress | Pink sheer strap top | Structured wool small edge tote in off white |
Discover more preloved Jil Sander pieces
From challenging social norms to embracing androgyny, fashion would not be where it is today without these inspiring individuals.
