As time passes, New York’s marriage between fashion and nightlife has proven to be the LGBTQ community’s longest standing relationship. For decades, the art of dress has been practiced among queers to express themselves, but fashion has a way to either hide or embellish the truth. At a time when fear of retaliation was veiled with the suit and tie, the events at Stonewall initiated a dialogue for what it means to be truly “out”. It was in bars like this where an acceptance among peers developed into a community—strong enough to stand up against a homophobic society.
As we approach 47 years of unwavering persistence, the urgency for equality and freedom of expression has never been more potent. In celebration of Pride, we’ve selected five bars for a special collection, highlighting the legacy of establishments—past and present— that cultivated communities still thriving within New York’s nightlife. The Stonewall Inn, The Eagle, The Monster, Meow Mix, and Cattyshack were selected by Opening Ceremony Co-Founder Humberto Leon, who started collecting memorabilia from these iconic bars after seeing so many spots he loved close down. As Humberto states, “Now more than ever, we stand behind these establishments that make our community strong.”
In light of the recent tragic events at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Opening Ceremony will donate 100% of all profits from this collection to the Pulse Victims Fund. To make a personal donation directly, click here.
Shop our collection of hoodies, tees, and hats celebrating Pride 2016 here.
On left Zoey wears Meow Mix Chix T-Shirt in Navy, Tyler wears The Eagle Anniversary 1970 T-Shirt in Black. Zach wears the The Monster Hoodie in Red and Opening Ceremony Speckle Jacquard Slim Fit Shorts in Black Multi. Sally wears The Eagle Rock & Roll Friday T-Shirt in Black, Opening Ceremony Guilloché Jacquard Wide-Leg Pants in UV Blue, and Charly Embellished Leather Slip-Ons in White. Allen wears The Stonewall Inn T-Shirt in Black. Emily wears the CattyShack T-Shirt in Navy/Gold. Photography by Patrick Spears. All subjects self-styled.
Shop our collection of hoodies, tees, and hats celebrating Pride 2016 here.