With LGBTQ+ history month having come to an end, let’s take a look at how the community has boosted the likes of all things beauty.
Wearing lipstick can be more than just applying makeup. For some, it’s a political statement that says “I can look however I want, wherever I want”. The beauty world for so many years has been centred around gender binaries that restrict any room for people who don’t fit into that box. But with brands now embracing what is a liberation for LGBTQ+ individuals, the beauty world is something everyone can be a part of.
An honourable mention is Fluide, a beauty brand that unfortunately closed early last year, but during its time as a makeup company not only challenged the status quo, but smashed it into a million pieces. They dedicated their image to inclusivity and expression for all. Creating collaborations with Jacob Tobia, Rose Montoya and Desmond Napoles. All truly inspiring icons of the LGBTQ+ community. This kind of representation is so important if we want to continue supporting the beauty space, as without it, it would be void of its colour. They also donated 5% of all profits to organisations that support health and legal rights within the LGBTQ+ community. Although the fight for equality is ongoing, Fluide was a modern hero in giving back to the people.
Makeup is art, and James Charles influenced others to pick up the paintbrush too. Although he may be a controversial figure, we can’t ignore when he became the first male ambassador for Covergirl in 2016. A moment that changed the industry forever. This inspired people to accept that a male star could partner with something considered so inherently female. In an interview with ABC News, he said: “Makeup is kind of becoming a more genderless concept, which is so cool and something I’m all for”. Gendered expectations were broken, and inclusivity was celebrated. For other members of the LGBTQ community, seeing this showed them that makeup is made for everyone. Thus, creating a wave of passion for the freedom that is beauty.
Continuing in the era of beauty bloggers, anyone is free to use their platform to create content. Which led to the likes of Bretman Rock, Nikkie Tutorials and Jeffree star, who all use their platform to highlight that makeup is genderless. The digital space is full of so many unique and diverse individuals, and ultimately helped shape and support the beauty world. From collaborations with Morphe to creating their own personal brands, the industry experienced a new kind of competitor. One where they already acquire a loyal fanbase who support them and their products. Having members of the LGBTQ+ community in these positions, shows how the industry is striding towards a diverse future that is widening beauty standards. Where else are you going to find eyeshadows with the name “Bearded Lady” or “Vitamin P”?
Ultimately, beauty is personal, and up to the individual themself on how they wish to define it. Anyone can pick up a foundation brush and use it, but the feeling of identity being fulfilled through the art of makeup is something the community have owned and thrived with. The industry still has a long way to go - but by focusing on the freedom makeup gives, we can continue celebrating such a diverse world.
Edited by Faith Suronku-Lindsay