lifestyle

Pride on the Island

From security blanket to suit of armour, clothes have the power to show the world who we truly are without saying a word. We know it’s not always easy, but living (and dressing) authentically is one of the best forms of self care. Take it from our Islanders: Ridwan, Megan, Khaliyah and Javier who we chatted to about what Pride means to them and how they use fashion as a form of self expression.

Javier, He/Him, Allocator at Distribution Hub

Why is Pride important to you?

Coming from a Roman Catholic family made accepting who I was or even exploring the LGBTQ+ community difficult. It wasn’t until I went to Bournemouth Pride in 2019 with a friend that I realised how welcoming the space was and that all that mattered was your own happiness. From then on, I decided to embrace my true self because I knew if anything went wrong, I had a whole community out there who would support me.

How would you describe your style?

In two words: fabulously monochromatic. I am someone that likes to take colour to the next level, all with a bit of sparkle. I make sure to accessorise to really bring an outfit to life, making sure that my jewellery, shoes and occasional headband all match the colour theme.

What’s the one piece of clothing that holds significance to your LGBTQ+ journey?

My tiara. Not to sound like a true prince but for my 20th birthday party I decided to embrace my true self and wore a set of tails (traditionally a very masculine outfit) and finished it off with a brooch and tiara. You should wear what makes you happy and whatever makes you feel like the star of your own life.

Megan, She/Her, Delivery Team Member

What makes you proud to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community?

I am proud to be a part of this community because it’s unconditionally accepting and resilient. Throughout history we have fought for our rights and never given up, and sometimes just remembering that helps me to keep going. Going to Pride and being amongst my community is always one of the most joyous experiences.

What’s the one piece of clothing that holds significance to your LGBTQ+ journey?

I’ve had a cream shirt with trippy colourful patterns all over it for 10 years. I found it in the men's section at a thrift store and it was the first time I felt comfortable wearing a button up. I always hated wearing women’s clothes, because everything felt tighter and was more form fitting so I never felt comfortable. Shopping in the men’s sections helped me feel more myself. I started to shy away from wearing colour when I went to college but this shirt was the one piece that I held on to.

Who should we check out to educate ourselves on the LGBTQ+ community?

There are some amazing Instagram accounts such as: Them, Pride Train, Stonewall Foundation and Pink News. Also, the show POSE is educational but heartbreaking about the ballroom scene and the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community in New York City in the ‘80s and ‘90s.

Ridwan, He/Him, Floor Manager

Why is Pride important to you?

There are so many reasons but mainly it’s the chance to celebrate justice, equality and visibility for all.

Does fashion play a role in expressing your identity?

Definitely! Whether done on purpose or not, the way you dress expresses who you are to other people and how you want to be perceived.

How will you be celebrating Pride month?

By going to all the Pride parades I possibly can.

Khaliyah, She/Her, Sales Advisor

Why did you want to share your story?

It’s a great opportunity to show a different insight into the LGBTQ+ community. We are a diverse community, with different backgrounds and identities but what I love the most is how each individual differs from the next. I’m grateful that an opportunity like this came about and I’m hoping to be a positive influence that the younger generation needs.

What's the one piece of clothing that holds significance to your LGBTQ+ journey?

The first piece of women’s clothing I wore publicly was a white bodycon dress with silver sparkly ruffles along the waist and chest. It was the first time I showed the world my true self and as soon as I stepped out of the house in that dress I felt like everything was finally coming together.

What advice would you give to people who are struggling to express their true selves?

You have been blessed with an alter-ego and you have to do anything and everything to express it. You are more than an identity in a community, you are a human and have a purpose in this world just like everybody else. Never forget that you’re the narrator of your own life and it’s up to you how you want to be perceived.

How will you be celebrating Pride month?

I was never one to celebrate Pride month but my friends and family make sure it’s all about me! My friends have played a huge role in my Pride journey and, of course, I’ll be dedicating an entire day to Mummy because I wouldn’t be where I am without her. She gave me an open and safe space to express myself exactly how I wanted.