Fifty years ago today, the trailblazers and heroes at the Stonewall Inn fought back against brutality and oppression. Their courage that night sparked a revolt and built the LGBTQ+ movement that gave us the ability to celebrate Pride. Thus, it comes as no surprise that more companies than ever are looking to commemorate the Stonewall riots with pride capsule collections.
But just because you see a rainbow stamped on something doesn’t mean you should buy it. If you really want to make a statement, both with your outfit and your purchase, consider shopping only Pride merchandise benefiting LGBTQ+ nonprofits through their sales.
Below, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite retailers and other companies with Pride staples that directly benefit important non-profits such as GLAAD and the Hetrick-Martin Institute. That alone should be enough of a reason to buy them, but they are literally GAY AF, which is even better.
American Apparel Still Queer Printed Fine Jersey T-Shirt ($24.00)
This year, 100% of net proceeds from their How We Love collection will benefit the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Trans-Cosmetic Donation Drive, founded by celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons to serve low-income trans and gender non-conforming people. These guys have always been an outspoken advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. I’ve been a fan since I first saw their racy and cheeky ads. This t-shirt could not be better, I love the message and the gradient rainbow branding in the back.
Express Love Unites Graphic T-Shirt ($29.90)
For every “Love Unites” item purchased by July 15, Express will donate 25% of the net income to GLAAD to accelerate acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community. I like that the collection isn’t predictable. The updated neon rainbow scheme totally does it for me.
Fossil Limited Edition Live in Color Watch ($75.00)
This season, Fossil honors Pride Month with a Pride-inspired watch case, complete with a subtle, rainbow-themed dial that celebrates the full spectrum of love. One hundred percent of proceeds from the Live in Color watch case will benefit the Hetrick-Martin Institute (HMI), the nation’s oldest and largest LGBTQ+ youth organization. No matter where this weekend, you will always be able to reach the rainbow.
Hipdot Legendary Press Glitter ($30.00)
Love it or hate, but no Pride outfit will be completed without some glitter. Wearing it allows you to express yourself and to be bright and bold. Hipdot knows it, that’s why to celebrate Pride, they launched a rainbow glitter inspired palette. It’s made in collaboration with my fabulous queer artist friend @HeyRooney – with proceeds going to the Anti-Violence Project Organization. Pick up a palette and put on some sparkle!
Original Penguin Pride Rainbow Print Swim Short ($79.00)
With their Pride collection, Original Penguin goes above and beyond supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Not only did they hired two queer illustrators Paul Tuller and Peen but also comedian Matteo Lane, right and center on the marketing campaign. More importantly, they will make a donation to the global non-profit group All Out. All Out is rooted in changing policy in countries around the world so that no person has to sacrifice their family or freedom, safety, or dignity because of who they are or who they love.
Reebok Classic Leather Pride Shoes ($75.00)
For Pride, Reebok is introducing vibrant updates to the iconic Club C, Classic Leather, and Freestyle Hi silhouettes. With a portion of the proceeds going to Fenway Health to support their ongoing mission of enhancing the wellbeing of the LGBT community – and all people. Through access to the highest quality health care, education, research, and advocacy. Some fresh white sneakers with rainbow motifs, I’ll take it.
Sprinkles Cupcake Pride Dozen Box ($46.00)
Sprinkles Cupcakes is bringing back their Pride Sprinkle cupcake, this time teaming up with BuzzFeed and The Trevor Project. With proceeds from all partnership, donated to the non-profit organization focused on suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth. Because after all the starvation leading up to Pride weekend, you deserve a treat!
So whether you’re celebrating Pride in NYC this weekend – or somewhere else, wear your support loud and proud!
Jorge Gallegos
Not just a pretty face
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