Note: CorporateQ is a series that focuses upon how masculine presenting gender queers are bringing their dapper selves to the workplace.

For my money, one of the best things about being a dapperQ is the response it arouses from our target demographic.  In my case, that’s my wife.  If another femme here and there casts an affirming glance, that’s bonus.  It’s great when straight men and women offer compliments but it has always been the femmes whose affirmation stirs my swagger.  That said, most of us aren’t lucky enough to have a workplace full of fierceness.  CorporateQ is a different world ruled most often by white cis-men.  When I don a necktie it can be seen as a in-their-face attempt to encroach on forbidden terrain.  And as I’m learning from the many of you submitting stories for this series, they can react with career-endangering moves.  

But this submission describes the transformative power of a workplace ally. As Julia Corbin makes clear, that not just someone who compliments your style.  It’s someone who champions your ability to bring all of your best to the job…

Julia

I am writing in response to the article I saw today about Bo in a corporate setting. I would love to share my story of an amazing ally.

The post Got Your CorporateQ Ally? appeared first on dapperQ.

Launched in 2012 by designer Karen Quirion, KQK is a fashion label offering elegant, minimalist collections that blend deconstructed urban style and femininity with tailored cuts inspired by masculine wardrobes. KQK is sexy, futuristic, and fun; a welcomed fresh option for those who are stylish and not afraid to dress outside the binary. DYDH Productions, in collaboration with photographer Gabryela Vogua, shot an editorial featuring some of KQK’s latest designs exclusively for dapperQ.

The post KQK: Deconstructed Urban Style with Masculine Tailoring appeared first on dapperQ.

*Feature image by Renzo Spirit Buffalo

Dressing dapper in the workplace: CorporateQ. It’s a whole other level of bringing your personal power and authenticity in to the world. Cis-men have built mythologies around what the type of watch or shoe they wear says about who they are. But they have no fucking idea who YOU are.

These picks aren’t for stuffing stockings. Each is a sweet little piece made to endure a lifetime AND be passed along to the CorporateQ who follows in your footsteps.

Watches Handmade in Detroit from Shinola ($550 and up)
Look at magazines like GQ and Details and you are likely to surmise that the only watch worth having costs thousands of dollars. Enter Shinola. It’s a company based in downtown Detroit that is training former autoworkers in the art of making Swiss watches. And handmade bikes. And brilliantly crafted leather goods.

Last year, I gifted myself with the orange-faced Runwell pictured below. It’s the least expensive of the lot but also the most stunning. The stem broke off but I sent it back for free repair as part of its lifetime warranty.

I’ve always bought watches in the $125 range but they tend to break down after a couple of years. I wanted to commit to enduring, American-made quality and I’m so glad I did.
If the style and performance of these watches isn’t enough, consider the branding which may sound vaguely reminiscent of your pioneering CorporateQ ways:

…we don’t think American manufacturing ever failed for being too good. Our worst didn’t come when we were at our best. It happened when we thought good was good enough.
It’s a tall order to return to form, but we’re up for it. We’re starting with the reinvigoration of a storied American brand, and a storied American city. Because we believe in the beauty of industry. The glory of manufacturing.
We know there’s not just history in Detroit, there is a future.

This may not be the year you Shinola enters your life. But put one on your list. Like you, it’s a brand that will only grow in influence.

Hand-Crafted, More Functional Tie-Bar from Ellsworth & Clyde ($85)

Maybe you’ve worn a necktie in the workplace for years. But, for many of us, it can be what tips office normies over the edge. A tie bar won’t ease their worried minds. However, one that is distinctive, functional and beautifully crafted may give you the confidence to soar above them.

I love this beauty, a Ellsworth & Clyde / Jon Contino collaboration. It is is reversible and has two sides that are different sizes in order accommodate a range of tie widths. Made from hand-selected woods and premium leather, each has more character than that standard silver clasp that has been prevalent for so long. Finally the attention paid to most of your garments is being applied to even the smallest of accessories.

Harlemm Bag by Ted Baker ($375)

I love the functionality of a good-looking backpack as much as the next dapperQ, (especially when it’s made from sustainable materials). But, if you are working a corporate gig, it’s not the most professional option, unless you’re in a creative field. This year I’ve been smitten by the Harlemm Bag from Ted Baker, especially the one with an oxblood accent pictured below.

What I like about it is the architectural feel of it, the great lines.

With its bold colors – rare in menswear but even more so in a briefcase – it’s a statement piece. You won’t find color options on the Ted Baker site, so search others offering this model.

Leather Suspenders and Bracelets from KikaNY ($85-$125)

Leather suspenders may feel a bit too risky for the most traditional corporate environment. But, if you are lucky enough to be a corporate creative, KikaNYs yummy leather can pull together a dress shirt and shoes in a way nothing else can. You really have to see the great craftspersonship behind the leather goods produced by KikaNY in order to fully appreciate them. I was introduced to KikaNY by Kurt Uhlendorf of Brooklyn Dry Goods who gave me this KikaNY’s bracelet for my 50th birthday. It pairs robustly with a good-looking watch or even more bracelets.

Happy holidays to all of you. May 2015 find your career moving in to even higher gear.

The post Holiday Gift Guide: Timeless Pieces for the Dapper CorporateQ appeared first on dapperQ.

New York City and Philadelphia have a long standing rivalry. So, when NYC-based dapperQ decided to celebrate our 20th edition of He Said/We Said by shooting our first “City of Brotherly Love” HS/WS feature, Philly queers brought it and did not disappoint.

For a quick refresher on the HS/WS series, check out creatress mastermind Anita Dolce Vita’s plan behind the HS/WS magic:

“The models fashion their very own looks – I give the inspiration, they give the interpretation. They come to the shoot camera ready: hair, make-up, their own clothes, accessories and props. I didn’t want the series to reflect how to recreate menswear from an individual stylist’s point of view. It’s always a wonderful surprise to see what each model came up with and all of the different translations of the same inspiration.”

Photographer Sammy Munsch, along with Anita Dolce Vita, selected the Hardy Amies Fall 2014 menswear collection as inspiration. Here’s what Munsch had to say about the inspiration and overall experience:

The Hardy Aimes Fall 2014 Collection’s refined yet casual look caught my attention. I knew the models I had chosen would add great flare to the textured layers and the tailored look that the collection portrays. Since this is dapperQ’s first shoot to take place in Philadelphia, I felt it was important for me to represent one of our city’s most beautiful places. The architecture and the unique nooks and crannies surrounding the Philadelphia Museum of Art compliments the Hardy Amies fall collection and embodies versatility of Philadelphia.

I’m especially grateful to the models, thank you all for your creativity and time spent completing this challenge. Additional thanks to Kate Hinchey (IG: @veritatemdisaster), Sara Kelly (IG: @sakpublicrelations), and Garrett Olthuis (IG: @Garrettolthuis) for their assistance with the shoot.

The full editorial, including model bios and outfit descriptions, can be found here on our publishing partner, Autostraddle. But, dapperQ is honored to present additional images from the amazingly stylish Philly queers:

INSPIRATION

INTERPRETATIONS

Jacqui Barnes

Julia Fahl

Andrew Spiers / Andy Indiana / The Feverfew

Olivia

Nikki Bright

Tiffany Thompson

Credits:

Sammy Munsch – Photographer
Kate Hinchey – Photography Assistant
Sara Kelly – Styling
Garrett Olthuis – Hair Styling

The post He Said/We Said: In the City of Brotherly Love appeared first on dapperQ.

A reader asks:

I ordered my first suit from Topman a year or so ago and have been wearing it with relative success, EXCEPT: the pant legs aren’t working out for me. I have an extremely short inseam (around 26 inches), and it’s near impossible to find pants that fit without hemming. So, I had a tailor hem the pants, but the problem now is that the line is off. The elegant taper at the bottom of the leg is gone! So my question is: is it reasonable to ask a tailor to taper the leg of an already hemmed pant to make it narrow towards the bottom? What should I tell this tailor? What might such a procedure cost?

So, we reached out to the suit experts to get some solid advice for you. First up, Mary Going and her team from Saint Harridan had this to say:

Saint Harridan:
Excellent question! Tapering the legs can certainly be done by a trusted tailor. The tailor will open the legs of the pants and remove fabric, tapering down to the bottom. You can do this by trusting the tailor to pin and sew, or you can control the process a bit more. I prefer the latter version because it leaves less room for error and misunderstanding.

Put the pants on in your house and have a friend pin them to the taper you want. Once they are pinned, measure your total inseam from the crotch to the bottom. And, then at regular intervals, measure the width you want. For example, let’s say you have a 26″ inseam. Measure the width at the crotch, knee, and bottom (26″). You then have a very precise way to measure the results:

These numbers are for example!!

At the thigh (at the crotch), width should be 25.5
At the knee (about halfway down from the crotch), width should be 18″
At the bottom, width should be 15.25″
(FYI, it’s easier to measure half, then multiply by 2 instead of measuring all the way around.)

Next up, we have advice from Leon Wu and the Sharpe Suiting group:

Sharpe Suiting:
This request is a completely standard alteration, especially nowadays since slim fit or the ‘tapered’ look is currently in fashion. In fact, many people have been bringing us their favorite slacks for this type of alteration!

I would ask the tailor to ‘taper the pant bottom.’ Make sure to bring in the shoes you like wearing with these pants as the tailor will ask you to try your pants on with the shoes, and it can often make a difference. They’ll ask how far you would like the pant bottom to fall on your shoes, if you want to show the shoe laces, etc. Today’s modern taper is anywhere from 12.5 to 15 inches (which is the total circumference of the pant bottom), if that helps. Tapering the pants should cost no more than $40-45.

For your future pant and slack purchases, a good tailor should include this alteration as part of the initial hemming and should ask your preference for the taper the first time you bring them in. If they don’t ask, just let them know that’s what you’d prefer. They want you to be happy with their work. The hemming and tapering combined should be no more than $60-65 (tapering = $45, hemming at most $20).

And, now for dapperQ’s two cents. Check out our suit chapter in the Style Manual on Autostraddle here. There are some trouser tailoring pointers towards the end of the chapter. You can also see our feature on Peter Manning, which includes a video on their philosophy for designing pants specifically for customers shorter than 5’9″. One of the reasons they focus on customers 5’8″ and under is “many menswear brands start their pant inseams at 30″ and up! Peter Manning / Five Eight does not believe that shortening too-long pants is the answer, because you end up with an opening that is too wide.” Hence, your conundrum. You can certainly get your current trousers tapered; But, for the future, starting off with cuts that are specifically made for shorter customers will yield a higher quality in the end.

The post Ask dapperQ: Can a Tailor Taper My Pant Legs? appeared first on dapperQ.

One of dapperQ’s favorite androgynous “menswear” models, Erika Linder, was recently cast as one of the “boys” in Tom Ford’s new “Lips and Boys” campaign ad. And, the results were…wait…someone please pick me up off the floor and get me some water, STAT!
 

The post [VIDEO] Androgynous “Menswear” Model Erika Linder One of the “Boys” in New Tom Ford Ad appeared first on dapperQ.

My work husband from a previous job recently called me asking for style advice, and the conversation went something like this:

Hubby: Grrrrrl, I got invited to attend a post-conference cocktail party. But, someone told me that the business suit that I’m wearing to the daytime workshops would not appropriate for the evening event. Like, do not rock the suit that I’m wearing in my LinkedIn profile pic to the party!

Me: Well, it is “appropriate” to wear whatever your heart desires. But, child, I know you want to be fashion-forward. So, no, do not wear your regular business attire to the party if you want to make a splash. Think “business with a twist.”

Hubby: Uh, I don’t know what that means. A shopping kiki is in order before I leave.

Me: Done!

Oooooh, the never ending masculine/”menswear” cocktail attire conundrum. How does one even begin to crack the cocktail attire dress code, especially if you do not have the go-to “little black dress” to fall back on? Even GQ states, “Cocktail dress code is one of those annoying dress codes that are rather vague…” This vagueness of which GQ speaks is partially due to the fact that cocktail parties are thrown for a variety of occasions with a diverse range of formality: weddings, anniversaries, graduations, holidays, birthdays, work events, fundraisers, art openings, etc. So, unless you actually know how formal the event will be (e.g., a cocktail party for a formal evening wedding vs. an exhibit opening at a small gallery), “cocktail attire” says very little about the dress code…very little except, in my opinion, get creative! While you may have to decipher the level of formality, this is certainly not a time to be boring. Now is the chance to let your style really shine, particularly if your daily work restricts you from taking bolder risks.

In my friend’s case, he is attending a conference for young POC MSM professionals, and the cocktail event is a relaxed, post-conference gathering being held to foster networking and community building. It’s a fun, youthful event; So, when I say “business with a twist,” I meant that he should consider adding some color, patterns, and texture, or even going sans socks, to avoid looking like he just came from work.

Photo by Leslie Van Stelten via dapperQ

Of course, cocktail parties are thrown for celebrations of both higher and lower levels of formality. Here is some additional inspiration from which to draw once you ascertain how formal the event will be:

Photo by Leslie Van Stelten via dapperQ

Photo by Troxell via dapperQ

Photo by Maria Tomanova via dapperQ 

Photo by Jazzie Bernabe via dapperQ

Photo by Tina Vanden via dapperQ

Photo by Lindsey Rickert via dapperQ

Photo courtesy Spice NYC Events

Image via Popsugar

The post Ask dapperQ: What Is Cocktail Attire? appeared first on dapperQ.

Every year, my partner and I wait until the last minute to decide what we’re doing for New Years Eve, which means we never know what we’re going to wear until the 11th hour. If you’re like us and do not have time to spend thinking about and shopping for a brand new head-to-toe ensemble, here are some quick and easy items that you can add to wardrobe staples to pull together an effortlessly stylish look.

The latest in power clashing is leopard print and plaid. They match…trust me, they match. The two are an unexpected fashion-forward dashing combo that very few people will think of pairing or even have the guts to pull off. If you already own a white dress shirt and black dress pants, all you need is one leopard print item and one plaid item. You can go big by adding a plaid or leopard blazer paired with a smaller leopard or plaid accessory (respectively), such as shoes, a scarf, or a tie. Or, you can combine two smaller accessories (one of each print). If you hit up a large department store or mall, you should be fairly successful at finding each of these prints in a short period of time. (Search the “men’s,” “women’s” and juniors departments.) I know…the mall. Godspeed!

Bling and bombers are a perfect match for a simple, androgynous casual outfit that still looks hip. Weather you pair them with heels or high tops, bombers can be an affordable item to throw over a black t-shirt and jeans. Go with a lightweight version if you plan on breaking a sweat on the dance floor. You can find fun, patterned bombers in both the “men’s” and “women’s” departments at places like Forever 21, H&M, or in the juniors department at major department stores. If you don’t have the ca$h for expensive bling, discount stores like TJ MAXX and Marshalls carry faux gold costume jewlery.

If you’re freaking out because you have a fancier event to attend, but do not have time to search for the perfect suit, which will probably still need tailoring, focus on finding the perfect statement blazer/jacket. Topman and department stores are a good place to start searching for a stand out jacket that will turn heads. If you already own a decent dress shirt and slacks, this is is all you’ll need.

The post Last Minute Quick and Easy New Years Eve Outfits appeared first on dapperQ.

From masculine gender queer fashion shows at world renowned cultural institutions, to Brangelina standing up to haterade drinking media and conservatives for criticizing their youngest child’s choice in attire, 2014 definitely had some dapperQ style winners! Here’s our team’s roundup of the top 10, in no particular order. What were your favorites? And, what did we leave off?

10. Cate Blanchett, Emily Blunt and Zhou Xun Suited Up for IWC Schaffhausen Ad Campaign

This year, IWC Schaffhausen launched a new line of watches in a range of sizes to fit smaller and larger wrists. But, unlike the majority of fashion ads that objectify women, IWC Schaffhausen instead cast their models as bad ass, suit wearing, power boat driving fashionist@s who know what time it is. Bad pun intended. Watch the video ad and get a glimpse of more images from the campaign here.

9. Androgynous “Menswear” Model Erika Linder One of the “Boys” in New Tom Ford Ad

8. Style Icon Ellen DeGeneres Announced She Was Launching “E.D.” Lifestyle Brand

Move over Oprah, Martha Stewart, and Gwyneth Paltrow. This year, style icon Ellen DeGeneres announced she was entering the lifestyle guru game with her brand “ED,” which was slated to offer home gifts (think bedding, candles, and tablecloths) last fall and was to eventually expand to also include clothing and accessories next spring. Like many launches, E.D. has yet to come, but hopefully it will soon and hopefully those whispers of clothing will include masculine attire for those who dress outside the binary.

7. MTV’s Ari Fitz Launches New Androgynous Style Webseries TOMBOYISH with Plans to Take It Worldwide

6. Ellen Page Came Out of the Closet, Where She Was Also Storing All Her Dapper Suits

5. Glenn Close Appears in Hollywood Reporter Wearing Incredible Tux

Glenn Close was photographed wearing an impeccably tailored, incredibly dashing tuxedo for an interview with the Hollywood Reporter regarding her return to Broadway. We’ll just let the images speak for themselves while we go fan ourselves. (Is it hot in here?)

4. Lena Dunham of the Hit Show Girls Starts Production of New Trans Style Documentary

Three Suits, an upcoming documentary that Lena Dunham’s production company started filming this year, will, according to news published by Vanity Fair,  “follow several of Bindle & Keep’s transgender clients as they go through the process of having custom suits made, examining the significance of the process for a set of customers with complex gender identities.” Front and center in the film will be one of Bindle & Keep’s employees, former dapperQ contributor Rae Tutera.

3. Barneys New York Ad Campaign Features 17 Trans-Identified Models

At the beginning of 2014, Barneys New York launched a breathtaking and groundbreaking ad campaign featuring 17 trans-identified models, including dapperQ model and trans blacktivist Ryley Ruben Pogensky. Check out dapperQ’s interview with Ryley, in which he talks race, gender, and his experience as a trans model for Barneys here.

2. dapperQ Produces THREE of the World’s Largest Masculine Gender Queer Runway Shows

1. Brangelina Supports Youngest Child Shiloh/John’s Wishes to Wear Masculine Attire

Assigned female and named Shiloh Jolie-Pitt at birth, Angelina and Brad’s youngest child, who prefers to be called John, has received unconditional public support from parents Brangelina, even in the face of nasty media criticism. John has shut the haters up by proudly rocking dashing dapper style everywhere from the red carpet to the Brangelina wedding. John is an inspiration to us all!

The post Top 10 Masculine Gender Queer Style and dapperQ Moments of 2014 appeared first on dapperQ.

A reader asks:

I wear a suit to work everyday and I’m always looking for formal shirts that have a little more “umph” or flavor. I wanna know where I can get a tuxedo shirt like the one Abby Wambach is wearing here:

via More Than Stats

I need a dress option that is neither the standard boring blue striped button down, nor the frilly silk alternatives. Help me out.

We often get questions from readers asking for jazzed-up button-down options and/or button-down alternatives. Especially the latter, because many of our readers cannot afford button-downs that do not gape at the chest area. Let’s start with the first part of your question. We couldn’t find Wambach’s EXACT shirt, but here are some similar styles:

Helmut Lang White Storm Flap Uniform Shirt on sale now for $160 (originally $320)

Vivienne Westwood Asymmetrical Collar Button-Down from 6pm and Farfetch

Now, as for revving up your daily business attire beyond the basic button-down, I recommend (1) playing with patterns and colors, (2) opting for sweaters and polo shirts, and (3) layering! Let’s take a look at examples of these three approaches:

 PLAY WITH PATTERS AND COLORS

Photo credit: via A Dapper Chick. Photographer Photo Credit: Debbie of DAG images

Photo credit: via Space Coast Living

Photo credit: via Articles of Style

Photo credit: via Articles of Style

OPT FOR SWEATERS AND POLO SHIRTS

Photo credit: via dapperQ

Photo credit: via dapperQ

Photo credit: via Trashness

LAYER

Photo credit: Photo by Lindsey Rickert via dapperQ

Photo credit: via Lookbook

Photo credit: via British Style

Photo credit: via Articles of Style

The post Ask dapperQ: Alternatives to Boring Button Downs to Wear with Suits and Formal Attire? appeared first on dapperQ.

Welcome back to The #dapperQs of Instagram, where we showcase some of the amazing queer style that YOU, our readers, have been sharing using the #dapperQ hashtag on dapperQ’s Instagram. For our first #dapperQs of Instagram of 2015, we asked our social media followers to share their dapper New Years Eve style with us. We had an overwhelming response. Here is just a teaser of what you all sent in. You can find more by searching #dapperQ on Instagram. Keep posting your style using #dapperQ…you might be joining these followers in our next post:

The post The #dapperQs of Instagram: New Years Eve Edition appeared first on dapperQ.

Last year, trans blacktivist and model Ryley Rubin Pogensky held the title of dapperQ of the Year. And, it is now that time of year again to honor a new member of our community who is using style as a springboard to create change. This year we are celebrating the work of Sonny Oram.

Sonny Oram is a writer, queer rights advocate, and the founder of Qwear, a fashion blog for queer women and trans people. Bustle recently proclaimed, “While Qwear’s fashion photos and tips would make for a stunning book, so would their message of self (and style) acceptance.” Sonny consults regularly with press and fashion heads including interviews with Isaac Mizrahi on the Huffington Post Live, Buzzfeed, S Moda, and Fashionista.com. In 2013 Sonny became the first female assigned blogger to work with British menswear brand Topman, and continues working with Topman and the Qwear team to translate their sizing, fit, and styles to their readers. The New York Times recognized Qwear as one of the top queer style blogs alongside dapperQ.

Photo by Sam Murray

Since Sonny founded Qwear in 2011, it has grown to include a team spanning the US of 6 writers and 3 photographers, as well as countless other contributors around the globe. Much of Sonny’s work with Qwear aims to highlight the beauty and style of queer demographics whose identities are often erased in mainstream media including people of color, people of varying body types, trans women, as well as femme and genderqueer individuals. Over the past year Sonny enlisted a designer to coordinate the Femme Faetale series for transfeminine people, and femme writer and body positivity activist LuzMarina Serrano to join the Qwear writing team and bring more femme voices to the forefront of the queer fashion community.

Sonny with LuzMarina at a Jack Tar event

In support of their readers’ priorities around the environment and worker’s rights, Sonny dedicated this past November to environmentally friendly brands, featuring a new queer-owned lingerie brand named Bluestockings Boutique. Qwear brings light to brands who promote body positivity such as Modcloth, applauding them for their anti-photoshop pledge and their plus-size designs. Qwear regularly provides profiles of people around the globe who sport everything from Ray-Bans to thrift store items and hand-me-downs, adding inspiration for the community of all income brackets. Qwear is also proud to have featured up-and-coming designer Angie Chuang, whose designs play with gender across the binary and encourage readers to showcase creativity and embrace gender fluidity.

Sonny’s personal style is as spot on as their writing and activism. Our team and readers are consistently impressed with Sonny’s sartorial smarts. In response to fan inquiries regarding how to achieve Sonny’s signature style, Qwear launched Sonny’s E-Shop, an impeccably curated online boutique where fashionable queers can find Sonny’s favorite items.

Photo by Sam Murray

Photo by Sam Murray

Sonny made their New York Fashion Week runway debut in 2013, modeling queer-owned brands at a fashion show attended by over 300 guests in Brooklyn, New York. Sonny returned to the New York Fashion Week runway in 2014 at a Manhattan show that drew in over 800 attendees and is now known as one of the world’s largest celebrations of masculine gender queer style.

Photo by Grace Chu

dapperQ has consistently been inspired by Sonny’s ever growing portfolio and commitment to the queer community. And, with that, we congratulate you Sonny on being dapperQ of the Year!

Photo by Sam Murray

Want more? Follow Qwear’s website here, and connect with Qwear on Facebook and Twitter.

The post Announcing dapperQ of the Year: Sonny Oram appeared first on dapperQ.

We’ve tackled the topic of masculine/androgynous swimwear before (here and here), but it seems as if we now have some new inspiration on which to draw for some poolside/seaside swag. That inspiration, folks, is coming in the form of Kristen Stewart’s sizzling beach “tomboy” ensemble that she recently rocked while chillin’ with gal-pal Alicia Cargile in Honolulu. Kristen (known for her leading roles in the Twilight films) opted for what is known as “men’s” briefs, a look you can certainly score from any of these queer-friendly brands in our masculine/androgynous underwear roundup.

Kristen and Alicia’s effortlessly “tomboy” chic post-beach attire also deserves a nod. They nailed the current Hawaiian/tropical print trend, which is perfect for Hawaii if not anywhere else:

For full story and additional photos, visit the Daily Mail. All images via Daily Mail.

The post Kristen Stewart Rocks “Men’s” Briefs as Swim Trunks on Beach in Hawaii with Alicia Cargile appeared first on dapperQ.

dapperQ’s He Said/We Said has been getting around as of late. For the last two editions, we documented queer style in Vermont and Philly. And now, for our 21st edition, we’ve invited some dashing and stylish queers of Cincinnati to show us their swag.

Photographer Cassandra Zetta, along with Anita Dolce Vita, selected the Orley Fall 2014 menswear collection as inspiration. Here’s what Zetta had to say about the inspiration and overall experience:

The Hardy Aimes Fall 2014 Collection’s refined yet casual look caught my attention. I knew the models I had chosen would add great flare to the textured layers and the tailored look that the collection portrays. Since this is dapperQ’s first shoot to take place in Philadelphia, I felt it was important for me to represent one of our city’s most beautiful places. The architecture and the unique nooks and crannies surrounding the Philadelphia Museum of Art compliments the Hardy Amies fall collection and embodies versatility of Philadelphia.

I’m especially grateful to the models, thank you all for your creativity and time spent completing this challenge. Additional thanks to Kate Hinchey (IG: @veritatemdisaster), Sara Kelly (IG: @sakpublicrelations), and Garrett Olthuis (IG: @Garrettolthuis) for their assistance with the shoot.

The full editorial, including model bios and outfit descriptions, can be found here on our publishing partner, Autostraddle. But, dapperQ is honored to present additional images from the amazingly stylish Philly queers:

INSPIRATION

INTERPRETATIONS

Bridge

Jessica “Jessie” Hicks

Alexis Anderson

Ali M. Davis

Credits:

Cassandra Zetta – Photographer

Models:

The post He Said/We Said: Stylin’ in Cincinnati appeared first on dapperQ.

“All Dressed Up and Somewhere to Go” details fun and fashionable events at which you can show off your swag. Our next featured event is NEON: The Official Pre-Party for the OUTmusic Awards presented by Whitney Day and sponsored by Curve magazine, and the 9th Annual OUTmusic Awards ceremony hosted by Lea DeLaria.

Photo via Lincoln Center

NEON: The Official Pre-Party for the OUTmusic Awards
NEON, to be held at legendary New York City nightclub Marquee from 10pm-4am on Sunday, January 18th, boasts three DJs (the stunning Amber Valentine, as well as two of our favorite dapper DJs Whitney Day and M.O.); a performance by the PitchBlak Brass Band (lead by dapper tuba player Chanell Crichlow); glow go-go by the electrifying circus and vaudeville performer Rivolta Sata/Manikk Arte; a one hour open bar from 10pm-11pm; and much more!

Photo credits: Rebecca Emmanuelle, DJ M.O. Facebook, and Amy Beckerman, respectively.

$15 1st Release LIMITED early advance tickets are available now at www.marqueeny.com/NEON or you can purchase tickets for $20 at the door before 11pm.

Go to NEON on dapperQ!!
dapperQ would like give three of our readers a ticket to NEON: The Official Pre-Party for the OUTmusic Awards for free! That’s right. We’re giving away one ticket for admission to NEON to three lucky winners, which means you can enjoy the open bar from 10pm-11pm and all of the amazing entertainment on us. To enter, RSVP for the even here and then simply comment below or in the reply section under the article on our Facebook page stating who you think is the most stylish musician and why. Three winners will be selected at random. All entries must be submitted by Sunday, January 11, 2015 at 11:59pm EST. The winners will be announced no later than Tuesday, January 12, 2015. (Prize includes entry to NEON. The ticket does not include admission to the ceremony on January 19th.)

9th Annual OUTmusic Awards Ceremony Hosted by Lea DeLaria
On Sunday, January 19th the 9th Annual OUTmusic Awards ceremony will be hosted at The Town Hall Theater in Manhattan by Lea DeLaria of Orange Is the New Black. This year’s roster of nominees range from Tegan and Sara to Zebra Katz.

Tegan and Sara. Photo via Color Is Its Own Reward

Founded in 1990, OUTMUSIC – THE LGBTQ Academy of Recording Arts (LARA) is the premiere 501c3 non-profit organization created to promote the advancement and appreciation of LGBTQ music culture & heritage as a recognized artform, create opportunities to support the development of young aspiring artists, increase visibility in honoring, documenting and archiving the contributions and achievements of marginalized LGBTQ artists into music & entertainment history. Black Out Lesbian Deepa Soul, whose real name is Diedra Meredith, is currently the CEO/Executive Producer of of OUTmusic, inc.

You can purchase tickets for the awards ceremony here or take advantage of Curve magazine’s combo (pre-party, red carpet, exclusive meet and greets, awards show, etc.) VIP package here.

The post All Dressed Up and Somewhere to Go: OUTmusic Awards Party and Ceremony appeared first on dapperQ.

Since queer media in general is lacking, dapperQ always strives to produce the best work possible (within our financial and time constraints as volunteers) because the LGBTQ community shouldn’t expect second-rate quality due to mainstream media’s disinterest in representing us. We produce many exclusive, original features, including, but not limited to, He Said/We Said. However, from time to time we draw inspiration (e.g. the concept of hosting New York Fashion Week runway shows) from more conventional, binary fashion and lifestyle media; But, we take those ideas a step further, building on them to curate a more inclusive and safe experience for our readers.

Our 2015 resolution is to keep developing new features and expanding our events. We’ve found that travel editorials are staple features in many fashion/lifestyle magazines, from conventional menswear media like GQ and Street Etiquette to conventional womenswear media like Vogue and Marie Claire. With the exception of a few spot on travel guides, such as Autostraddle’s “Queer Girl City Guides,” there are few platforms for the unique travel perspectives, experiences, and needs of stylish masculine presenting women, gender queers, and trans-identified individuals specifically. We are about to change all of that this year with the launch of our new TravelQ series, which will document travel through the eyes of dapperQs. We will feature a wide range of dapperQ-specific travel information: unique destinations, great bars, safe spaces, gorgeous beaches, amazing food, and dapper style on the road.

Our first TravelQ is near and dear to the dapperQ family. Our Editor-in-Chief’s fiancé, S.F., grew up in Sarajevo, Bosnia. At the age of 12, she and some of her family were able to flee the city during Bosnia’s 3.5 year-long war, during which Serb forces carried out “ethnic cleansing” resulting in some of the most horrific crimes on European soil since the Second World War. S.F.’s family arrived in the US as refugees and has since called America their home. But, S.F. continues to visit her native country and her remaining family, including her father and brother, in Sarajevo, watching the city she still loves today slowly grow back into the popular travel destination it had the potential to once become.

SARAJEVO

Queer Sarajevo travel FAQs:

Q: Do women (or those “perceived” as women) have to cover their heads/face in BiH?

A: Muslims make up about half of the country’s population. While there has been an Islamic revival as a response to the war, BiH has a long history of being a secular state. You will see a growing number of women fully covered. But, the majority of the people, especially in Sarajevo, wear clothing similar to what you would find in secular Western cities. “Proper” religious attire (e.g., head scarves) is required when entering places of worship. Entering a place of worship can be a traumatic experience for some, because only women are expected to cover their head and/or shoulders, and this expectation extends to individuals who are even “perceived” as women, whether or not they actually identify as women.

Q: Is it safe for LGBTQs?

A: Fair question, indeed! In 2008, S.F. returned home to live in Sarajevo for a few months. While she was there, she volunteered to assist Organization Q, BiH’s only LGBT-specific organization at the time, with coordinating the country’s first ever pride festival. The event ended in horrible violence when angry mobs attacked festival participants and supporters.

More recently, BiH has slooooowly started strengthening its LGBT anti-discrimination laws in an effort to comply with guidelines set forth by the European Union for countries seeking membership. However, we wouldn’t recommend making out with your partner in public just yet.

In 2007, the Sarajevo Open Center, a non-profit organization “promoting active citizenship through political education and advocating for human rights of women and LGBT persons through equality policies,” was established and has since designed many successful projects to support the community.

Q: Is it still war-torn?

A: Countries affected by war and terrorism are never the same. However, they can rebuild and heal. BiH is doing just that. While the war ended in 1995, you can certainly still see mortar damage and burned out buildings. But a significant amount has been reconstructed and restored in many areas. Sarajevo is a safe, cosmopolitan city with bustling nightlife, culinary and shopping scenes.

BEYOND SARAJEVO: MOSTAR, BLAGAJ, KRAVICE, KRESEVO

All images by Anita Dolce Vita

Want to share your dapper travel experiences? E-mail us at dapperQ@gmail.com. All images must be large, high resolution for consideration.

The post TravelQ: Bosnia appeared first on dapperQ.

If queer style blogs were the only source of all fashion media, it might appear as if suits and the dandy aesthetic are the only options in “menswear” and masculine attire. But, if you look at Complex, Hypebeast, GQ or the many “menswear” runway shows all over the world, you would find that masculine attire is quite varied and includes everything from American heritage to preppy to street Goth to hip-hop style, and much more.

Enter IUTER. Founded in 2002 by a group of people with a strong passion for board sports, graffiti and music, IUTER is an androgynous fashion-forward streetwear brand that embodies the binary breaking spirit of dapperQ readers. Fully designed and manufactured in Italy, IUTER collections are constantly evolving and perfect for dapperQs who believe that a suit is best left on Wall Street. DYDH Productions, in collaboration with photographer Gabryela Vogua, shot an editorial featuring some of IUTER’s latest designs exclusively for our readers. This is the third in a series of DYDH/Vogua editorials for dapperQ.

The post IUTER: Premium Androgynous Streetwear from Milan appeared first on dapperQ.

Die Young Die Happy Productions (DYDH) is a production company specializing in the production, artistic direction, and styling of fashion shows and photo/video shoots while strengthening their clients’ branding. DYDH was founded in January 2012 by Danik Yopp and Dina Habib- enfants terribles of Montreal’s Fashion scene. Their unconventional approach to styling, directing and producing has earned them fast recognition and many accolades among their peers. DYDH recently shot a series of four exclusive androgynous style editorials featuring designers from Canada to Italy. You can find the first three editorials here. But, in the meantime, dapperQ is looking back at some of the outtakes from their brilliant shoots. Stay tuned next week for the final editorial of the series, only on dapperQ:

DYDH 411
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The post Watch This Wednesdays: Outtakes from the DYDH Productions Fashion Shoots appeared first on dapperQ.

The Advocate, The Huffington Post, Jezebel, GLAAD, and Bustle are all talking about BROTHERS, a fictional web series dramedy that follows four trans-masculine friends in Brooklyn, NY. The Advocate states, “Each ‘brother’ is facing a tipping point in his life, from Davyn’s marriage proposal to Aiden and Max’s different journeys toward chest reconstruction surgery to Jack’s unanticipated attraction to other men.”

For this edition of Watch This Wednesdays, dapperQ got a more in-depth look at BROTHERS with filmmaker Emmett Lundberg, the writer and director of the series.

dapperQ: Please tell us a bit about BROTHERS?

Emmett: BROTHERS is a series that is unlike anything else, not only in its storylines, but also in its artistic vision. Produced like a low budget film, but in web series format, we worked hard to make as professional a product as we could on a tiny budget. The basics; it’s a narrative web series about a group of trans masculine friends in Brooklyn, NY. It follows four guys, all at different stages in their respective transitions, with different desires and goals.

dapperQ: What inspired you to create the series?

Emmett: Now more than ever, in light of the recent tragic deaths of young trans people, I am reminded of the incredible importance of telling trans stories. I strongly believe that part of the fight to be seen as equal human beings is to have our stories be visible. BROTHERS was born of my own desire to see my story in a positive, realistic way and it’s very clear to me now how essential this is for our community. I also didn’t want to wait and hope that someone might someday produce this for me. It was something that had to be done and done now. I found others who shared my vision and we were able to launch an amazing first season.

Center: Writer and director, Emmett Lundberg

dapperQ: What do you hope to achieve with the series? What has the response been so far?

Emmett: Bottom line, I want more narrative trans stories in the world. I love documentaries, but there’s something different about relating to a fiction story. Something about seeing yourself on screen in that way that is incredibly comforting. I hope that trans masculine identified people can say that when they watch BROTHERS.

On top of that, I wanted to give a taste of trans daily life to cisgender individuals. I recognize that the stories I’m telling are only a piece of a much larger narrative, but it’s a start and hopefully it will inspire others to create and share their own stories as well.

The response has been incredible so far, beyond my wildest dreams in fact. Many people within the community have contacted us to say how excited they are to have a show that they can relate to on a deep level. If that wasn’t enough, we’ve also gotten quite a bit of very positive press from outlets like, The Huffington Post, The Advocate, SiriusXM Radio and Jezebel.

dapperQ: According to the Advocate, you were intentional about casting only transgender actors. For those who do not understand why lack of representation is so detrimental, can you discuss why it was important for you to do this?

Emmitt: For me, it was important to cast this series with trans people in trans roles because not only is there a lack of trans representation in the media, but I also felt that these guys could bring their individual experiences and journeys into these characters.

dapperQ: Are any of the storylines inspired by personal experiences? If so, can you give us a hint or share the story?

Emmitt: A lot of what I write is inspired in some way by my own life experiences. It’s hard not to bring those things into your work, impossible even. I know that for me, the relationships I have and the people I meet are all good material for future projects. There’s a great quote by Anne Lamott that I always remember when writing, “You own everything that happened to you. Tell your stories. If people wanted you to write warmly about them, they should have behaved better.”

The storyline that follows Jack’s ex girlfriend is one that is very close to my own experience, with some liberties taken of course.

dapperQ: Where can our readers find you when you’re not working on BROTHERS?

Emmitt: You can usually find me working on movies or TV shows as an assistant in the Art and Set Decorating departments when I’m not writing or producing my own projects. I also recently signed a publishing contract for a book that I co-edited, which is an anthology of trans masculine experiences.

I’m hopeful that BROTHERS will be a great stepping-stone for me in getting to a place in my career where I can live off of my own work.

dapperQ: What can we expect next from the series?

Emmitt: Everyone has been asking when they can see more or what happens now. For the time being we’re working on screenings and festivals for the first season and starting to map out storylines for season two. We raised money through Indiegogo for season one and are hoping to get funds through other sources for the next season. We are currently seeking investors and continuing to accept contributions (as well as selling merchandise) through our website: www.brothersseries.com.

To watch full episodes of BROTHERS, visit their YouTube channel here.

The post Watch This Wednesdays: BROTHERS Web Series Explores Lives of Transgender Men appeared first on dapperQ.

Ace Hotel New York + Bindle & Keep + dapperQ Present
BEYOND MEASURE
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK
Special Guest Judges: JD Samson, Murray Hill, Eliza Byard and dapper Q

In celebration of New York Fashion Week 2015, Ace Hotel New York is partnering with bespoke clothiers Bindle & Keep, JD Samson, Murray Hill, Eliza Byard and dapperQ for Beyond Measure, an opportunity to honor three deserving nominees with the gift of a custom suit and dress shirt from Bindle & Keep, plus a night’s stay at Ace Hotel New York.

A bespoke suit is not just an article of clothing; it is a tool, a feeling, a hand-crafted self-portrait with leaf-turned edges. We want people to look the way they feel, confident, classic and teeming with self-love, so we’re asking our neighbors and friends from the community to nominate a special someone they think deserves a new suit — activists, social workers and rebels, those in the law and civil rights sector and those fighting the good fight for positive social change.

We’re accepting nominations until February 15 at 11:59pm EST. Visit acehotel.com/beyondmeasure to share their names, their loves, their heart’s work and the reason they need some fresh gear. You can include pictures, links, related press, inspired mixtapes, testimonials and other supporting ephemera if you like.

Submissions will be judged by JD Samson, Murray Hill, Eliza Byard and dapperQ. We’ll announce winners February 17, during New York Fashion Week.

This is open to NYC residents, or people who can easily travel to NYC.

Naturally, clothing is an expression of the individual personality. But truly custom suiting can be like having your beloved family piano tuned by Carnegie Hall’s in-house technician. Once brought together and harmonized, the wearer’s self will sing out more clearly and resonate farther than ever before.

dapperQ was extremely excited to learn that businesses like the Ace Hotel share in these same values. As a fashion and empowerment website, our New York Fashion Week events have always focused on using fashion as a springboard to advance visibility and equality, and the Beyond Measure campaign is congruent with our continued efforts this season. Kelly Sawdon of the Ace Hotel team said of the Beyond Measure campaign, “Like Bindle & Keep, Ace celebrates individualism — they’re a natural partner for us to help recognize standouts doing impactful work for their communities by offering them a beautiful suit and a restoring night away.”

We invite you to learn more about the participating brands and judges below.

About Bindle & Keep
Bindle & Keep is an NYC-based bespoke clothier that has distinguished itself as a company that makes clothes for everyone, regardless of gender, orientation or physique. Their unique work within the LGBTQ community will be the focus of an upcoming HBO documentary produced by Lena Dunham and Jenni Konner.

About Ace New York
Ace Hotel New York reinvents the urban hotel for the people who make cities interesting. With a sense of curiosity and respect for the history and culture of New York City, the 12-story hotel lives in a historic, turn-of-the-century building in Midtown Manhattan. The space serves up engaged fashion retail, Michelin-starred restaurants and eloquent, mischievous and interesting answers to the travel experience.

About the Judges

JD Samson
JD Samson is best known as leader of the band MEN and as one-third the electronic-feminist-punk legends, Le Tigre. Operating at the intersection of music, art, activism, and fashion for over a decade, JD has toured the world, produced songs for Grammy winning artists, written for the Huffington Post, Talkhouse, and Creative Review, and engaged in direct support with a wide-range of progressive social and political causes.

Murray Hill
Named one of the top 12 gender-bending performers in NYC by Time Out, hometown nightlife legend, comedian, and renowned entertainer Murray Hill, “the hardest working middle-aged man in show business,” is a larger-than-life personality frequently found in “Best of New York” lists.

Eliza Byard
Eliza Byard, executive director of the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), oversees all program development and oversight, including the first-ever Ad Council campaign on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender issues. An award-winning filmmaker and media professional, Byard has appeared on The O’Reilly Factor, AC360, ABC World News, and Talk of the Nation, among other programs. Byard served on Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s commission on runaway and homeless LGBT youth, and currently serves on the LGBT youth suicide prevention task force of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention.

dapperQ
dapperQ is the primer style and empowerment website for masculine presenting women and trans-identified individuals. Dubbed GQ for the “unconventionally masculine,” dapperQ was among the first digital spaces to champion “menswear” for those traditionally under-served by mainstream menswear media and designers. dapperQ produces wide-ranging original content and events for which it has received media coverage in The New York Times, The Daily Beast, The Huffington Post, and The Washington Post, to name a few.

The post Do You Know Someone Who Deserves a Free Custom Suit? Nominate Them for the ACE Hotel NY + Bindle & Keep + dapperQ “Beyond Measure” Campaign! appeared first on dapperQ.