Pride month is just around the corner, but Target has already got a jump on celebrating by joining forces with TomboyX and Humankind to offer gender-affirming (and affordable) undergarments and swimwear in stores. Target is well-known for its brilliant pride display every year, offering gender-neutral clothing, LGBTQIA+ statement and pride wear and rainbows galore. With signature pieces from the TomboyX and Humankind collections being added to the mix, Target is genuinely reaching new heights in the inclusivity and affirmation scenes.
Haily Marzullo founded Humankind on a mission to create inclusive swimwear. Their website clarifies that products are “designed for every body,” with a “promise to make you feel comfortable and confident so that you can wear what suits you.”
TomboyX founders Fran and Naomi, two self-proclaimed “tomboys,” wanted to create underwear for people like them. With values that include “advocating for equal representation and celebration of all people” and pride in creating “products for all bodies and needs, of all sizes and across the gender spectrum,” it’s no surprise that TomboyX has become huge within the trans and non-binary communities.
Target’s collaboration with the brands will include swimwear, briefs, bras, boxers, and binders in various styles and colors. And most importantly, it will be a more cost-effective option than many of those currently on the market. Studies have shown that the trans community is among the lowest-paid employees, so having access to these essential garments at affordable cost is critical. The partnership makes it far more convenient by giving people the ability to shop for all of their clothing needs in one place, but these gender-affirming items can be a critical element in promoting body positivity for many LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Studies have shown that feeling affirmed is crucial to the mental and emotional well-being of trans and non-binary folx. According to a research study conducted by the Williams Institute, trans people are at a far higher risk of suicide compared to their cis-gender counterparts. A follow-up on the study done by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that affirmation and support are the leading factors contributing to reducing the high suicide risk that trans and non-binary people face.
The groundbreaking announcement is exciting, but the accompanying marketing campaign further proves that representation matters. Mila Myles, a stand-up comedian who modeled for the collection, spoke about their experience in an interview with Bustle: “It was the first time that I was welcomed and empowered to make other people feel empowered.” They’re hopeful that this collaboration between Target and TomboyX will “redefine ‘commercial beauty’ by hiring different-looking ‘commercial models.’”
I started something today, something I never thought I would. I started my journey into becoming who I am. I got my first binder thanks to @Target and @tomboyx #trans #transman #happyashell pic.twitter.com/k1KD6bgGGu
— Your local non binary bottom (@Lunar_Lexi_luvv) May 7, 2022
The products can all be found online, with some options already making their way into stores. This is a monumental drop as Bustle reported: “Target reps have confirmed that this collection marks the first time the retailer has stocked compression tops in stores—a huge move for queer youth who wouldn’t regularly have access to gender-affirming products.”
Cheers to Target for kicking off pride in an inclusive, affirming way.
https://twitter.com/goshdarn/status/1522283720731938816?s=20&t=VLIZ0bcNqeVCZpChl4rqiA
