How Brands are Embracing Pride Month and Supporting LGBTQIA+ Causes

2023 Pride Month Brand Partnerships

June has arrived and that means Pride Mont but check this out! It's been almost 25 years since President Bill Clinton declared June as Pride Month back in 1999. Since then, we've come a long way in recognizing and celebrating the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities. Not only has the federal government shown its support, but many brands have also joined in, incorporating LGBTQIA+ messages into their products and campaigns. It's their way of celebrating the progress we've made toward equality, protection, and inclusion.

Now, let's take a look at some of these incredible brands and retailers that are doing their part to support LGBTQIA+ causes. They're not just donating to organizations that empower and uplift LGBTQIA+ people, but they're also releasing special products with a purpose. In this blog, Hollywood Branded shares how brands are making a difference by supporting LGBTQIA+ causes with their vibrant and inclusive collections. 

Calvin Klein

Calvin Klein, the popular U.S. fashion brand, recently announced its amazing global Pride 2023 collection and 'Feel Pride' campaign. The campaign features some incredible individuals like Australian pop singer Troye Sivan, First Nations model Nathan McGuire, and Māori model Manahou Mackay.

This colorful and vibrant campaign was shot by Joe Brennan in Sydney, capturing the essence of joy and celebration within the LGBTQIA+ community during Pride. The collection, called 'This is Love,' brings a fresh twist to Calvin Klein's signature underwear and apparel. It introduces eye-catching colors, limited-edition designs, and a distinct new logo-band, giving classic styles a modern update. The campaign showcases various pieces, including t-shirts, muscle tees, sleeveless hoodies, denim shorts, and truckers, all featuring lively graphics and embroidery that celebrate love and diversity.

But that's not all! Calvin Klein has gone a step further by collaborating with First Nations artist Jake Simon to create an exclusive local capsule collection. This collaboration is particularly special because it's the brand's first-ever partnership with a First Nations artist.

Photo Credit: Calvin Klein

Levis 

Levi's is a brand that has been a long-standing supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community and has consistently shown its support during Pride Month. Their Pride 2023 campaign, features a diverse cast of six inspiring LGBTQ+ individuals from around the world who live authentically and empower others to do the same.

But, Levi's has often released special Pride-themed collections featuring clothing and accessories. These collections typically incorporate the iconic Levi's denim styles along with unique Pride-inspired designs and colors. The brand has been known to feature rainbow elements, inclusive messaging, and LGBTQIA+ pride symbols in their Pride Month collections.

In addition to their product offerings, Levi's has actively participated in Pride parades and events around the world. They have often sponsored and collaborated with LGBTQIA+ organizations, donating a portion of their sales to support LGBTQIA+ causes. Levi's has also used their marketing campaigns and social media platforms to promote inclusivity, acceptance, and equality during Pride Month.

Photo Credit: Levis

Doc Martens 

Dr. Martens teamed up with Japanese artist Fuyuki Kanai for a super cool collaboration on their iconic 1460 boot. This manga-inspired version is all about spreading inclusivity, community love, and celebrating queer relationships. You can get your hands on these awesome boots for $180 at select stores and drmarters.com. But that's not all! Kanai's 1460 Boot is just one part of a series featuring three amazing artists commissioned by Dr. Martens to create Pride products this year.

And here's something truly heartwarming: Dr. Martens is making a positive impact on the LGBTQIA+ community. They're continuing their partnership with The Trevor Project, an incredible organization that focuses on suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ young people. Dr. Martens is showing their support by making a generous $200,000 commitment to The Trevor Project. They're not just making stylish boots; they're making a difference!

So, get ready to rock your manga-inspired 1460 boots, knowing that your purchase is not only super cool but also helping support an organization that's making a real impact. It's a win-win situation, and Dr. Martens is stepping up to show their love for the LGBTQIA+ community in an awesome and meaningful way.

Photo Credit: Dr. Martens/Fuyuki Kanai/PinkNews

Skittles 

Skittles went all out for Pride Month by teaming up with LGBTQ+ designers to create limited-edition Pride packs that are as fabulous as they are tasty! These special packs were designed to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community in a colorful and inclusive way.

By partnering with LGBTQ+ designers, Skittles not only showcased their commitment to inclusivity but also provided a platform for diverse voices and talents to shine. The limited-edition Pride packs became a powerful way to express pride and support for the LGBTQ+ community while enjoying the delightful flavors of Skittles.

These special packs were available for a limited time and could be found in stores during Pride Month. They served as a joyful reminder that love comes in all colors, just like the rainbow of Skittles. So, if you were lucky enough to get your hands on these fabulous Pride packs, you not only experienced the deliciousness of Skittles but also carried a piece of LGBTQ+ creativity and celebration with you.

Photo Credit: Skittles/PRNewsWire

American Eagle 

American Eagle has taken their support for Pride Month to the next level by partnering with influencer Olivia Ponton for an incredibly vibrant and inclusive collection. The AE + Olivia Ponton collection is a celebration of self-expression, featuring genderless T-shirts, boxers, shorts, and more.

The partnership with Olivia Ponton, a prominent influencer known for her positive and inclusive mindset, brings an extra layer of authenticity and excitement to the collaboration. Olivia's personal style and commitment to inclusivity perfectly align with American Eagle's values, making this collaboration a match made in Pride heaven.

The AE + Olivia Ponton collection will be available for purchase starting Thursday, both in select American Eagle stores and on their official website, americaneagle.com. So, whether you're shopping in-store or online, you'll have the opportunity to explore and celebrate Pride with this incredible collection.

By partnering with Olivia Ponton and releasing this vibrant genderless collection, American Eagle continues to make a bold statement of support for the LGBTQIA+ community. They are providing a platform for self-expression, encouraging inclusivity, and embracing the true essence of Pride. 

Photo Credit: American Eagle Instagram

Eager to Learn More? 

Pride month is here and we recognize these incredible brands and retailers that are making a difference in support of LGBTQIA+ community. We have plenty of pieces on how to explore brand integration through a remarkable month.

• Take A Longer Ride With Pride
• Brands That Invest In LGBTQ Pride
• Case Study: Pride Partnerships on Instagram
• 25 Brands That Gave Back This Pride Month
• Queer Content Partnerships: A Win For Brands And Progress 

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