Humankind's swimwear and TomboyX's undergarments offer LGBTQ+ a wider range of gender-affirming ... [+]
Ahead of Pride Month, Target has announced new collaborations with two LGBTQ+ clothing designers. The brands TomboyX and Humankind will both bring queer-friendly, limited-edition options to Target’s shelves.
LGBTQ+ people deserve a wider selection of underwear and swimsuits. Most clothing brands create underwear and swimwear in distinct “male” and “female” categories. For example, swimsuits are often limited to board shorts marketed to men, while bikinis or form-fitting one-pieces are marketed to women.
TomboyX makes underwear that are comfortable for people of any and all genders. Humankind sells swimwear like swim shirts and board shorts. Both of these brands help LGBTQ+ customers feel more comfortable in their own skin. Customers can find TomboyX clothing online and in some stores throughout May. Target plans to start sell Humankind garments on May 25th.
What can shoppers expect from these collections? TomboyX has compression tops (a more comfortable option for chest binding), packing underwear, and other undergarments like boxers and briefs. The sizes range from S - 4X.
Chest binders are designed to compress a person’s chest to make it appear flatter. Packing underwear allows a person to wear a phallic object or padding to create the appearance of having a bulge at the front of their pants. These undergarments empower transgender and nonbinary people to present their bodies in the way that feels most authentic to their gender identity.
Many customers are excited to see these items in a big-box store. This is the first time that Target has stocked compression tops on the racks. Shoppers usually have to purchase compression tops from online specialty shops, which can be expensive. When shopping online, it can also be difficult to find the right size. Chest binders should be worn snugly across the torso. However, compression tops should not be too tight or they can cause skin irritation and restrict breathing. Now that these garments are available (albeit for a limited time) in Target, customers can physically hold the clothing up to their bodies or stretch the fabric to test the elasticity. When LGBTQ+ customers can interact with these undergarments, they can more easily determine which size will work best for them.
The TomboyX and Humankind collaborations can reduce some of the barriers that LGBTQ+ teens face when they try to purchase gender-friendly underwear or swimwear. Young people may not be able to buy clothing online without using their parent’s debit card. If a young person lives in an unsupportive household, they may not be out to their family members. Now, young people may be able to more discreetly purchase compression tops or other undergarments at Target.
Chest binders and packing underwear can help some people feel more confident. Nonetheless, your identity is valid no matter what swimsuits or undergarments you wear. If you don’t feel safe enough to come out, you can contact the Trevor Project or your local health centers for guidance and support.
Target’s Pride collections can validate transgender and nonbinary people who are exploring which clothing options best align with their gender identity. The retailer has made a huge step forward for equitable fashion, but many LGBTQ+ shoppers argue that gender-affirming swimwear and underwear belong on store shelves year-round.
