Famous gay male fashion designers

The racial awakening that swept America in was supposed to lead to change. Following nationwide protests after the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police, innumerable industries pledged to make new commitments to diversity and inclusion, including the fashion industry. Progress, at least thus far, has been mixed. That next generation is already here, and already making strides to reshape the industry.

Fashion design has always had a large contingency of gay men who are prominent in the profession. This is perhaps not surprising given the extent to which the industry relies on leading-edge and extravagant design, a particular skill of many in the LGBTQ community. Often notable for designing haute couture and ready-to-wear for women, there is a smaller group of gay men who also design menswear. Most of them are highly visible and operate global brands either under their own labels, or associated with household-name design firms.

Beginning in the year , plaques have been installed along Seventh Avenue — a corridor synonymous with the fashion industry — to commemorate internationally renowned fashion designers. Gay fashion designers recognized along the Fashion Walk of Fame include Geoffrey Beene, Bill Blass, Perry Ellis, Rudi Gernreich, Halston, Marc Jacobs, Charles James, Calvin Klein, Norman Norell, and Willi Smith. left Geoffrey Beene's plaque on the Fashion Walk of Fame, located on Seventh Avenue between 39th and 40th Streets, Photo by Christopher D.

By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. It's important to support Black queer businesses and to continue to hire Black queer creatives for projects all year long. Black History Month may have just come to a close, but even though we need a longer month shoutout to Whitney Houston! So here are some of our favorite queer Black designers that you should know about, that you should support, and whose offerings will keep you looking fab!