With its mission statement and organizational goals aligning with Bloomingdale’s, a capsule collection was born to help solidify inclusivity.Īnd expanding on its joint vision for diversity, the collection campaign features several Black entrepreneurs that own queer-affirming entertainment venues in New York, including Bryan Clarke and Troy Berry (owners of 4 West Lounge in Harlem), Richard and Charles Solomon (owners of Lambda Lounge in Harlem), and Leon Curry (Co-Owner of Next Harlem), each photographed by Ricky Day. Wilbekin’s lens of Black-and-queer identity and affirmation has resonated with local and national communities and led him to create the Native Son foundation as a movement for Black gay men to see themselves in a more positive light. The collection – co-designed by Kid Dangerous – encompasses a limited-edition range of slogan tees that feature phrases such as “ Black Boy Joy,” “People Be Gay,” and “Queer.” Colorways include black tees and white tees, with phrases appearing in multi-colored graphic decals.
