When we think of LGBTQ+ fashion icons, names like Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier, and even Elton John often come to mind. While these are some of the most recognizable style influencers, countless other LGBTQ+ legends have made groundbreaking contributions to the fashion world. Here are just a few designers, style stars, and creatives who helped redefine what fashion means today.
April Ashley
One of the first successful transgender models, April Ashley, was a significant figure in the fashion world. After being discharged from the British Merchant Navy, April underwent gender confirmation surgery and was outed to the press in the 1960s. Despite the backlash, she graced the pages of Vogue and became an influential LGBTQ+ activist.
Sylvia Rivera
Latina trans icon Sylvia Rivera was one of the most influential transgender rights activists of her time. Born in New York to Puerto Rican and Venezuelan parents, Rivera expressed her defiance not only through voice but also through her style. Dressed in drag, she participated in pivotal events like the Stonewall Riots at just 17 years old. From there, she continued to advocate for trans voices throughout her life, and always glammed while doing it.
Marlene Dietrich
A bisexual icon of the 1920s, Marlene Dietrich was a popular actress, singer, and fashion influencer of her time. Known for her androgynous style, Marlene challenged gender roles. She expressed her fluidity by confidently switching between masculine suits and top hats, as well as glamorous, feminine silhouettes.
Jenny Shimizu
When it comes to historical Asian LGBTQ+ figures in fashion, recognition is lacking due to cultural and legal restrictions that prevented many from living openly. It wasn’t until the 1990s that lesbian model Jenny Shimizu stepped into the spotlight, modeling for luxury brands like Calvin Klein and Jean Paul Gaultier. Her androgynous style and openness about her sexuality helped pave the way for greater LGBTQ+ representation among Asian men and women in the fashion world.
William Dorsey Swann
Born into slavery, William Dorsey Swann was the first self-proclaimed drag queen after moving to D.C. as a free man. Crowning himself the “Queen of Drag,” Swann hosted drag balls that often led to legal consequences, as they were considered illegal at the time. His resilience and queer activism paved the way for the unique fashion and style the drag community embraces today.
Today, countless LGBTQ+ fashion icons are shaping the future of the industry, building on the legacy of past legends. From Marc Jacobs to Alex Consani, the fashion world continues to evolve with their innovative influence.
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
