The LGBTQIA+ fashion designers you need to know

To kick off Pride Month, we’re spotlighting LGBTQIA+ fashion designers who are making their mark in the industry. These are the brands you should have on your radar to shop now and forever.

Winner of the 2015 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, Jonathan Simkhai is known for his intricate design details and eye-catching silhouettes. He has continued to turn out bold, feminine collections year after year with pieces for both everyday wear and special occasions.

Named the American Emerging Designer of the Year at the 2020 CFDA Fashion Awards, Christopher John Rogers creates attention-grabbing designs that make you smile. His collections are bursting with vibrant color, and you’ll find voluminous silhouettes sitting next to tailored styles.

Founded by South Asian-American designer Sheena Sood, abacaxi puts a fresh spin on traditional silhouettes. The mindfully-made pieces feature lively colors, patterns and handcrafted textiles.

Matthew Adams Dolan debuted his first collection for Spring/Summer 2016. The label brings a fresh perspective to American sportswear, and he’s known for innovative denim designs.  

New York designer LaQuan Smith launched his eponymous label in 2013. His collections have glamorous, sexy body-hugging designs, so it’s easy to see why some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry are fans. 

Jenny Cheng and Esther Gauntlett launched their label Gauntlett Cheng in 2015. The New York-based brand explores gender fluidity and body positivity through its designs, and is known for its textile manipulation and knitwear.

Founded in 2013 by Patric DiCaprio, Claire Sullivan and Bryn Taubensee, Vaquera notes that it “makes fashion fan fiction.” The brand’s designs bring a bold, edgy feel to wardrobe essentials by playing with shape, texture and fabric. 

Founded in 2016 by Jameel Mohammed, KHIRY is inspired by the African diaspora. The jewelry line is known for its sleek, modern pieces, and it’s been worn by the likes of Michelle Obama, Issa Rae and Alicia Keys.

London-based jewelry designer Alan Crocetti’s namesake line has statement-making pieces that feature unique shapes and bold details.