The fashion world often borrows from queer culture but rarely gives credit where it’s due. For over a decade, dapperQ has been changing that narrative with its annual New York Fashion Week show, hosted at the Brooklyn Museum. This by-queer, for-queer event is a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ artistic talent, honoring both established and emerging creators.
dapperQ’s eleventh show, titled Legacy was more than just a fashion event; it was a testament to the power of queer creativity and resilience. The show featured designs from Atashi RTWBoiPKGDykemintHarley De OliveiraIGBO-SISUNJasmine KnitsLlessurRose Noir DesignsSoid Studios NY and Alegria each bringing a unique perspective to the runway.
The Backstage Magic of dapperQ
While the runway steals the spotlight, the real magic happens backstage. Unlike the often cutthroat environment of the fashion industry, dapperQ fosters a culture of affirmation and love. Models, designers, and stylists come together in a symphony of collaboration, creating a queer paradise where everyone is celebrated.
Backstage, you’ll find models like Isaiah Alan feeling empowered in their Llessur corsets, and designers like Carrie Seng meticulously sewing garments that push the boundaries of art and fashion. The atmosphere is electric, filled with laughter, support, and a shared passion for creativity.
A Community of Creativity
dapperQ is more than just a fashion show; it’s a community. Designers draw inspiration from each other, creating pieces that are sustainable, innovative, and breathtaking. The show is a reflection of the queer experience, with all its grief and resilience joy and pain, captured in every stitch and stride.
Models like Jari JonesDenitra Alicia and Amaryllis Greene bring these designs to life, each telling a unique story. Greene’s dress, made from 8,000 straws by Harley De Oliveira is a testament to the show’s commitment to creativity and sustainability.
The Legacy of dapperQ
The title Legacy was fitting for dapperQ’s eleventh show. For eleven seasons, dapperQ has been empowering queer and trans artists, giving them a platform to showcase their talents and inspire future generations. The show is a living exhibit, a historical record of queer artistry in real time.
From the runway coordinators like Buffy Sierra marking her fourth year with dapperQ, to the models bonding over their love for their looks, every individual plays a crucial role in this celebration of queer culture. dapperQ’s legacy is one of inclusion, creativity, and unapologetic queer pride.
As the fashion world continues to evolve, dapperQ remains a beacon of queer creativity, a reminder that the people who inspire fashion deserve to be celebrated on the runway and beyond.
