2SLGBTQ+ Winnipeggers embrace vintage and thrift fashion for self-expression

CBC

5 hours ago

Double knits, bright colours, pant sets and polyester jumpsuits — when it comes to queer fashion, anything should go.
That's the advice of three Winnipeggers who have leaned into fashion and style, and particularly vintage clothes, as a way to express their identity and sexuality.
"It can really allow for an individual to present themselves in a way that matches how they feel on the inside," said Michael Duchon, co-owner of Vantage Vintage in Winnipeg's Exchange District.
"I know thrifting has really played a big role in allowing gender diverse people to really express themselves."
His boutique opened in 2017 and bills itself as a safe space for 2SLGBTQ+ shoppers.
Moss Queen, a non-binary and gender fluid creative in Winnipeg, has also jumped on the vintage wagon too.
"The queer community has always been involved in influencing fashion," they said.
"I really do like vintage pieces. I many focus on colour palettes and textures," said Queen, who opened up their closet in a new short video by CBC's Creator Network.
Taleigha Joseph did the same. Joseph has a healthy collection of circa 1960s and 1970s multi-patterned and brightly coloured dresses, some with the telltale big collars of those decades.
"I feel like when people look at me, they're like, 'yeah, she's a little fruity.…' And I like that," said Joseph. "I want people to know that I am gay."
"Don't dress to impress anybody else," Duchon recommends. "Do it for yourself. And this doesn't just go for queer people, it goes for a lot of different self-identifying groups of people."
You can hear more from Duchon, Joseph and Queen in the new video, created in honour of Pride Month by Bridget Clemente, Evan Rivard, Chaira Plaga, and Caryl Jazz Cruz as part of CBC's Creator Network.