It’s that time of year again!
The days are getting longer; Mariah’s playing at every supermarket, the sun is sizzling, and the beach beckons. Summer has arrived!
If you’re getting your summer clothes out of storage and thinking, “Wow, I really need to update my wardrobe,” we’ve got you covered (literally!).
Here’s our hot guide to summer fashion for queer and trans guys. We’ll take you through what’s trending in queer fashion this season and give you some advice on how to dress and feel cool this summer.
1. Baggy Tee’s
Some basic baggy T-shirts are quintessential for your summer wardrobe. A loose-fitting Tee will keep you feeling cooler and comfier and protect your shoulders from those UVs. Opting for lighter, breathable materials like cotton will also help on those scorchers. Loose muscle Tees are perfect for transmasc folk who want to show off their scars (or don’t mind a binder peeking out), as they masculinise your torso and make your arms and shoulders look amazing! Baggy T-shirts are also an excellent way for trans guys to cover a binder. They are also very in at the moment! You can find them in stores such as First Nations brand Gammin Threads (with designs ‘just for mob’ and ally friendly, UNIQLO, or try your luck at a local op shop (there are often plenty!).
2. Crop tops
Embrace fem-top summer with a classically queer crop top. They are cooler, well, because there’s less material! Anyone can rock a crop – and they are a fun way to express your queerness. A couple of local brands to try include Clothing the Gaps (look for ‘mob only’ and ‘ally friendly’ stickers) and project claude. Or you can give new life to a tired tee and make your own! Turn the shirt inside out and make a small horizontal cut where you’d like to crop it. Then, cut or tear the fabric, leaving you with a fabulous midriff with a funky rolled hem. For more tips on upcycling, check out our article Six ways to update your wardrobe without needing to buy more clothes.
Button-up shirts are a must-have any time of the year, especially in those warmer months. Short-sleeve button-ups with check, gingham or striped patterns have made a come-back. Pair them with a classic neutral singlet or long-sleeve (for a skater vibe), baggy shorts and sneakers, and you’ll fit right into the queer street fashion scene. Op shops are generally in good supply of these fashionable shirts and for pretty cheap as well or try the AFENDS range.
4. Jorts
Another one we owe to the streetwear renaissance is the fantastically queer jort. A portmanteau of ‘jeans’ and ‘shorts’, ‘Jorts’ are exactly as you’d expect – jean shorts. People (especially queer folk) have been rocking the jorts this year. When it comes to fit, the baggier, the better. They’ll be more breathable, too, and you can easily up the class with a cute belt. If they’ve got extra pockets, they’ll be perfect to pack condoms and lube for a night out. You can get jorts from brands such as WORSHIP and Rusty.
5. Linen
Linen, like many in our community, is versatile. It keeps you warm in the colder months and cool in the summer. Up your beachwear game with a cute linen shorts and shirt combo. Deck yourself out with some good-quality linen shorts, pants, shirts, or jackets, and you’ll have a wardrobe as versatile as you are!
6. Speedos
Briefs are back baby! Nothing says gay summer fashion in Australia like stripping down to some budgie smugglers at the beach. Gali Swimwear is an Aboriginal-owned brand on Gadigal land (Sydney) that offers a beautiful range of swim briefs designed by First Nations artists. Other local queer brands include TEAMM8 and Tribe Australia.
7. Sandals
If your trusty Havaianas are on their last legs, why not upgrade to a lovely sandal to elevate your summer footwear range? Sandals come in all flavours, styles and prices. They are stylish, breathable, and easy to pop on and off, perfect for a beach day. Birkenstocks and Teva’s are a popular choice, and UGG has a cute selection of sandals.
8. 80s windbreakers
Bring back retro 80s vibes with a casual and light windbreaker. These babies are perfect for those cooler Tassie summers and unpredictable Naarm weather. They come in fabulous neon colours and patterns, perfect with your favourite pair of jeans or shorts and a baggy white Tee. Visit your local recycled fashion store, which usually has a bunch of these vintage gems.
9. Speedy sunnies
Get yourself a pair of wraparound sunglasses to block out the sun and the haters! Particularly popular among queer ravers, these sunnies have made a comeback in Oz. Get yourself a pair of good-quality sunglasses (check the UV rating or if they’re polarised) to protect your eyes from the sun (or strobe lights) and look stylish while doing it. Aussie brands Szade, Pit Viper, and Local Supply all have a great range of tastes and flavours.
10. Caps
Caps are back, baby! A classic baseball cap or trucker hat is a summer essential in Australia. Protect that gorgeous face from the sun with a chic hat to top off a street-style look. Popular brands include Qweer, Neovision and Von Dutch, or you could try raiding your wardrobe; maybe you’ll find that one cap you got from that random holiday sports camp.
11. Mullets
In the wise words of Fleabag, ‘Hair is everything!’. Getting a fresh cut for the summer is not only a good way to regulate your heat but look good while doing it. Mullets, wolf cuts and shags are especially popular among queer Australians right now. Get yourself a haircut to feel fresh, cool and fabulous for the summer party season.
If you’re looking for more inspo, here’s some further reading for your queer summer wardrobe: