Deep in the heart of Texas lies the pulse of Texas fashion – beating loud and proud. Not only are these LGBT designers representing the LGBTQ+ community, they’re representin' Texas, ya’ll!
This diverse group of designers is oh so fashionably fabulous and they're showcasing their Texas talent with pizzaz. With clothing designs are as unique as their personalities, these southern stars are being featured on the red carpet draped on the shoulders of stars like Lady Gaga and Beyoncé.
Spring is just around the corner and we can't wait to see what these fierce, fabulous LGBT designers will bring from Texas to the fashion world.
Brandon Maxwell
From Longview, TX to the Big Apple, Brandon Maxwell is bursting through the glass ceiling and giving us some of fashion’s most glamorous looks. Inspired by his grandmother’s clothing boutique, Maxwell has climbed the ranks to recently style Lady Gaga – and there's no end in sight for this maestro of fine material.
As if his celeb cred isn't enough, the newly announced judge on Project Runway is making his television debut this Spring. Bravo released a sneak peak of their fan-favorite show, Project Runway. In the new season, Brandon will be a judge designer on the show’s panel.
When Brandon is off judge duty, he’s making headlines with his own designs like those worn by Meghan Markle.
Tom Ford
Despite its long-standing reputation as the steer and tumbleweed capital of the U.S., Texas actually has a long history of fashion-forward thinking. Case in point: Tom Ford.
From the state capitol of Austin, LGBT designer Tom Ford has blazed a Texas-sized trail for designers to follow. Mr. Ford built an empire on his creativity and design, which translates through his clothing, high-fashion, jewelry, cosmetics and even now in his directing career.
A coffee table book, $1,000 stilettos, and a self-named cologne are just a few for Ford's contributions to the industry of glitz and glam.
And yet, while there is only one Tom Ford, there's never enough lone star state representation in high fashion.
Charles Smith II
What do you get when you combine a humanitarian with a creative genius? You get something akin to the marvel that is Charles Smith II. The genius designer behind SMITH II, Charles Smith II represents the city of Dallas, Texas, beautifully.
His clothing defies the ambiguous laws of fashion in that Charles Smith II designs his clothing with purpose. With a line exclusively designed in support of the Black Lives Matter Movement and his involvement in Dallas public schools, Charles shows us that standing up for what you believe in is always in fashion.
Smith is a leader among the greatest LGBT designers. His impeccable designs are both edgy and elegant. He habitually creates visual art campaigns to coincide with avant-garde fashion.
Though he was born in New York, his passion and ambition lead him to Texas. Since, he has created some of the most modern, trendy, and remarkable clothing designs worn by hip hop musicians like Dreezy and Young Thug, all while giving back to the community (which is something we can definitely get behind).
Danny Nguyen
Houston gave us Beyoncé. Check. Then, Houston gave us Danny Nguyen. Check mate.
Danny Nguyen Couture recently showcased his bright and bold Spring/Summer 2019 designs at Paris Fashion Week and his gowns absolutely blew the fashion world away. With some of the most detailed beadwork and eclectic shapes and colors, everyone is watching Nguyen's trajectory to the top.
Designing for Hollywood’s Jeanie Mai and the fabulous Amanda Leopore, Danny is adding his sparkle to the stars. His featured looks can be seen on T.V. and in your favorite fashion magazines.
These LGBT Designers Are Lighting Up Texas
These LGBT designers prove that no matter where you come from, following your heart and your passion is beautiful. Now, the world gets to benefit from the bravery of these LGBT designers who refused to mute the light shining from within and instead channeled their brilliance into creating wearable works of art.
Who's your favorite LGBT fashion designer? Let us know in the comments below or tag us on Instagram @EqualityVodka. We’d love to show our support!