Undergraduate Research

LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Apparel: The Impact Gender Dysphoria and Body Dysmorphia has on the LGBTQIA+ Community

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Abstract

LGBTQIA+ youth are 50-70% more likely to experience body dysmorphia when compared to their cisgender peers (Boroughs et al., 2010). The LGBTQIA+ community constitutes $890 billion (LGBTQ Marketing 101: Ten First-Year Steps, n.d.). Despite the size and potential spending power of the LGBTQIA+ community, they are often overlooked by the apparel industry and must adapt their current apparel to accommodate their needs and wants (Barry & Drak, 2019). This conceptual study explored the design elements needed to support the apparel needs and wants of the LGBTQIA+ community, specifically those who experience gender dysphoria and body dysmorphia, to support further academic research that might increase the product offerings by apparel brands and retailers. The study found that despite the commonality of binding, tucking, and packing among queer and transgender consumers, most apparel brands and retailers do not specifically design apparel that addresses these needs. 

Keywords: LGBTQIA+, inclusive, apparel, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia

How to Cite:

Reynolds, T. & McBee-Black, K., (2024) “LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Apparel: The Impact Gender Dysphoria and Body Dysmorphia has on the LGBTQIA+ Community”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 80(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.17092