Savage x Fenty Launches Their First Pride Collection
Given that many members of Rihanna’s fanbase identify as LGBTQ+, it is not surprising that Savage x Fenty’s latest collection has launched in celebration of the queer community. The collection is ‘here for every BODY’, featuring everything from thigh-high stockings and crop tops to bralettes, boxers, and smoking jackets. Most of the garments presented in this collection are visibly connected to Pride and the rainbow flag, honouring the community and its continued journey towards liberation. In keeping with RiRi’s ethos of diversity and inclusivity, African American fashion photographer Quil Lemons was chosen to shoot the campaign with models who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Key to the brand’s success story, this collection is available in sizes stemming from 30A to 42FF – also upheld in the marketing campaign, which includes models of all different body types. Like Calvin Klein, which has also recently released a Pride collection in collaboration with several LGBTQ+ charities, Savage x Fenty will be working with the Clara Lionel Foundation, with an initial donation of $250,000 from sales of the Pride collection bequeathed to LGBTQ+ organisations including GLAAD, the Audre Lorde Project, The Caribbean Equality Project, INC., Trans Latin Coalition, and the Trans Wellness Center.
Rihanna has always been a cis ally when it comes to the LGBTQ+ community. She has showcased her solidarity for the community in several ways over the years, championing minority groups in her product lines and speaking out about LGBTQ+ rights. Back in 2014, the Sochi Winter Olympics held in Russia generated major controversy, as news outlets and athletes around the world contested the hosting nation’s anti-gay propaganda laws. Rihanna joined numerous other celebrities in wearing a Principle 6 t-shirt, demonstrating against the Russian government’s discrimination. Moreover, she has in the past given advice to fans on coming out and feeling confident as an LGBTQ+ individual; in April 2016, she privately helped a gay fan come out to family and friends. When he reached out to her on Twitter, her central message was ‘to be who you are’, and Rihanna continued to check in and offer more advice along the course of his journey. Her music also plays a powerful role in highlighting her allyship, regularly featured in gay clubs alongside the likes of Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, and Britney Spears, as a major contributor to the queer scene.
Overall, this collection should be supported. If you want to help queer people and their struggles, supporting brands that are proud to be working with queer organisations gives opportunity for growth in a way that doesn’t damage the community or it’s representation, but generates pride and confidence instead.