Come June, and social media and store windows are flooded with depictions of the Pride Flag and numerous pride hashtags. While Pride Month does usher in queer joy, often, the support begins to taper off once the month is over. Well, we’re not here for the pinkwashing. We’re here to help you zero in on ways to extend genuine support to the community. And one of the most impactful things we can do, is support their creativity and their businesses. All year round. Here are 5 queer-owned fashion brands we love.
Mae
Find them at: https://www.mae.co.in/
What they sell: Tops, t-shirts, bombers, dresses, co-ords
Why we love them:
Mae looks towards repurposing decades-old saris, and turning heritage brocade pieces into unique garments, giving them new life and reducing textile waste. Mae also works closely with the Wagrah community of North India. The brand takes a step forward in reimagining and putting to use saris that would otherwise be collecting dust and moth holes. The pieces are gender-neutral and you can even customize your own one-of-a-kind garments. If you want a statement piece in your wardrobe, be sure to check them out.
Gagged
Find them at: https://gagged.dm2buy.com/
What they sell: Totes, hats, shirts, pants, jackets, blazers, sweatshirts
Why we love them:
The store is run by Rudraksh, who is passionate about providing aesthetic and trendy fashion at the most affordable of prices. Gagged stands for gender- neutrality, when it comes to fashion, and the pieces are either thrifted or secondhand items. All the pieces have a certain congruity to them that is easily identifiable. Rudraksh elevates basic items of clothing by creating art on them that is unique to their brand.
Omaira Handicrafts
Find them at: https://omairahandcrafts.wixsite.com/omairahandcrafts
What they sell: Earrings, keychains, home décor items, rings
Why we love them:
Omaira Handicrafts designs playful, quirky, unique pieces that scream summer. Their collection offers the perfect mix of colour and patterns to elevate any outfit or space. All items are handcrafted by the Shreya are easy to use, and tested for durability. Shreya is also open to customizing one-of-a-kind products and working to bring their customer’s vision to life.
Cosmic Jalebi
Find them at: https://www.instagram.com/cosmicjalebi/
What they sell: Tote bags
Why we love them:
Co-founders Syed and Utkarsh connected over a shared vision to build a community where people come together ‘to celebrate their differences and be their unapologetic selves’ . They have a diverse collection of tote bags that will appeal to everyone. Afterall, what’s better than stepping out with a cloth bag that’s prettier for the planet, and makes an individualistic statement! You’ll be sure to turn a few heads.
Salsette Collective
Find them at: https://www.instagram.com/salsette_collective/
What they sell: Scarves, soft home furnishings
Why we love them:
Salsette Collective is a craft design studio, based in Goa and Bombay, that sells gender-neutral scarves. They focus on organic, natural-dyed, handmade and indigenous products, which they are passionate about. The pieces are traditionally made, but have a contemporary and sophisticated style to them. The scarves are a perfect addition to any wardrobe for the summer and come in a variety of earthy tones.
