What To Wear To Pride, According To A Very Fashionable Queer

Pride is not the time for blending in. It’s your annual invitation to show up, show out, and wear whatever makes you feel the most you (with extra glitter if you so choose). Whether your vibe is that of stone butch heartthrob, a hot femme raver, a shirtless angel, or some chaotic combination of all three, the only real dress code is joy, visibility, and maybe a little strategic ventilation (plus sunscreen, obviously). From statement accessories to strategic skincare to outfits that scream “I’m gay! Please look at me!” here’s exactly what to wear to the Pride March. Oh, and did I mention everything on this list is from a queer-owned business? You’re welcome!

Protect Your Skin

First things first—whether you’re to taking to the street parade or celebrating Pride with a queer picnic this weekend, you’re going to need sunscreen. That’s where Malin+Goetz comes in. Their SPF 30 mineral sunscreen will help protect your gorgeous mug from harmful UV rays for up to two hours while also hydrating your skin, leaving you with a dewy, photo-ready sheen. Reviewer Melissa E. said, “I love it! I was so surprised when I first put it on. It doesn’t leave a white cast; it’s lightweight and not sticky. I have found my favorite sunscreen.” Believe Melissa and add this beauty to your cart so you don’t wrap up your festivities with a nasty burn. Thank me later.

It’s What’s Underneath That Matters

Yes, we all are focused on the fit everyone will ogle over when we post our pictures from Pride. But your choice in underwear for the big day is just as crucial as the cheeky slogan tee you pick (don’t worry—we’ll get to that later). My go-to gender-neutral undergarment is my Woxers. The thick waistband ensures they don’t dig into my hips throughout the day, providing a comfortable fit. And wedgie? I hardly know her! These breathable cotton drawers will help keep your undercarriage dry throughout the festivities while also providing support in all the right places. In fact, I am wearing a pair as I write this article on this 96-degree day in Brooklyn. Not a drop of sweat in sight!

T-Shirt Time

Now it’s time for every queer’s fave part of any ensemble—a clever tee.  Flavnt has us covered. Want to let the girlies know you’re down to clown? Maybe sport this “Will Bottom For Femmes Shirt.” If you’re a hot trans boy, wear your moniker on your chest with this treasure. Perhaps you’re the “World’s Versiest Vers.” Yeah, it’s time to let the people know this Pride with the perfect t-shirt. Peruse their whole site to find the perfect top to let everyone know exactly who you are. I mean, graphic tees are kind of the new Hanky Code, right?

The Perfect Bottom

You’ll also need the perfect bottoms (pun intended) to complete the look. Wildfang offers a variety of tailored trousers, lightweight drawstring pants, and even shorts. However, if you’re more of a skirt-wearer, I recommend this absolutely badass utility wrap skirt, which features tons of pockets, an adjustable belt waist buckle, and a zippered opening. This do-it-all diva allows for easy access to your carabiner, chapstick, and whatever else you may need to whip out while you’re marching through the streets (or sipping on your vodka soda at Cubbyhole).

Patterns Galore

If you want a real show-stopper, though, look no further than The Blonds. This skater dress, featuring a printed gold chain pattern, is serving opulence while still being super parade-friendly, thanks to its sweat-wicking material. Or, if you’re more of a coordinating set type of person, go with a matching top and joggers in this sick, spikey pattern to show off how hard-core you are without having to commit to wearing real metal. And go the extra mile with a matching fanny pack to keep snacks, sunscreen, and your wallet!

Glitter? I Hardly Know Her

Okay, so we have our outfits covered, but what about makeup? Whether you want something a little more subtle or an all-out confetti cannon plastered on your face, Kim Chi Chic Beauty is going to be our ride-or-die this Pride. For a glow you can’t get anywhere else, I recommend her Pearl Gone Wild Pressed Shimmer Highlighter. A little bit of this on your cheekbone, upper brow, and inner eye will have you looking like the glowing deity you are without committing to a full-on rainbow look, although you can certainly do that, too. If you do want to look like a walking Pride flag, her Twenty-five Palette offers all the colors you’ll need! Finally, her Stage-Proof Matte Setting Spray is going to be a non-negotiable to keep the sweat bay and lock in your makeup. I have been using this stuff for years, and I swear by it.

Gays, Accessorize!

Finally, we need to select the perfect accessories to complete our ensemble. I personally think a bucket hat is the ideal way to show off your Pride while also protecting your gorgina face from the sun. This one from The Peach Fuzz, which is very Lizzie McGuire but with a gay twist, is so stinking cute that I may just buy one for myself right now. However, if you’re not a hat person, I think this not-so-subtle nod to U-Haul lesbians would be the ultimate addition to any carabiner. Check out the rest of Peach Fuzz’s site for the cutest accessories, home goods, stickers, and more to indulge in Pride, even if you’re not going to a parade!

And there you have it: your ultimate Pride March starter pack, hand-picked from queer-owned brands that are serving looks, function, and fashion. Whether you’re strutting through the streets in a utility skirt serving body and face or just trying to avoid a wedgie in your Woxers while hollering “love is love” at the top of your lungs, you’re going to be winning at Pride in any of these pieces. Just don’t forget to give a little wink to the hottie across the street. Now, go forth and slay the sidewalk. Your queer ancestors, and your chosen fam, are cheering you on.