The Pioneers and the Protégés: 5 LGBT+ Designers Who Are Changing The Game

The LGBT community has come a long way in their quest for acceptance. While the journey is far from over, the fashion industry has seen its fair share of great fashion designers and creators who are members of the LGBT community. We've highlighted a few of our favorite LGBT+ trailblazers, ahead meet some of the up and coming LGBT+ protégés that are leading the charge.

Known for his risqué, ultra sexy aesthetic, Queens born LaQuan Smith has been heralded by icons such as Tom Ford and André Leon Talley for his sharp eye, keen attention to detail and consistent willingness to push the fashion boundaries.

Perhaps the most celebrated contestant to triumph Project Runway, Christian Siriano has long established himself as a red carpet mainstay. With inclusive, elegant designs reminiscent of one Valentino Garavani, Siriano’s loyalists include Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Obama, Jennifer Lopez and more.

Appointed Balmain’s creative director at just 25 years old, Olivier Rousteing is oft credited for restoring the fashion house to its most fabulous glory. On top of that, the designer has built his own #BalmainArmy, a fanbase that counts Rihanna, Kendall Jenner and Kim Kardashian among its top recruits.

Vibrancy, glamour and sophistication are at the heart of Jason Wu’s designs. With a modern take on classic elegance, Wu has long found his stride with celebrity clientele such as Iman, Michelle Obama and Reese Witherspoon.

Parsons graduate and emerging designer, Hana Holquist, is making waves across the fashion scene with high femme, high drama designs that expertly meld experimentalism, fantasy and reality.