Queer women have always been in need of a good suit. From Anne Lister and Frida Kahlo in the past to the trend-setting styles of Janelle Monáe and Kristen Stewart today, the relationship between suits and queer women has stood the test of time. At once able to celebrate all points on the gender spectrum, suits give every woman the freedom to decide how she wants to appear, whether that be masculine, feminine, androgynous, or something else entirely.
In 2016, we published 5 Suit Companies You Should Know to help our readers find clothiers who could help them look and feel their best with supportive and affirming service. Since one of them has gone out of business since then and we know you’re interested in more hot suit companies like we are, and we’re excited to present five additional options to help you find the suit of your dreams.
Emily Meyer (emilymeyer.com)
Proudly owned by the queer woman for which the shop is named, Emily Meyer provides bespoke suiting designed entirely around you. Because the suit construction starts with individual measurements, every body can experience the joy of a custom suit. If luxury is what you’re looking for, bicoastal company Emily Meyer delivers with private appointments in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York.
Shave Ave. (shaneave.com)
Deb Saywell founded Shane Ave. to give lesbians, trans men, and nonbinary folks more resources to find affirming suit creators. The magic of Shane Ave. is their commitment to collaborating with each client; When you work with them, you’ll have a say in every aspect of your suit—from the lining to the buttons. Though Shane Ave. is based out of Sydney, Australia, they happily work with clients around the world.
Her Tuxedo (hertuxedo.com)
For the moments when even the best-crafted suit isn’t formal enough, Her Tuxedo is there. While they lack the custom element of some of the suit companies on the list, their prices allow enough flexibility to have your tuxedo tailored after it arrives at your door. Her Tuxedo has offerings ranging in size from 4 to 20 and they sell waistcoats, shirts, bowties, and other accessories as well.
Kirrin Finch (kirrinfinch.com)
Born of their personal frustration in struggling to find gender-defying suits, Brooklyn couple Laura Moffat and Kelly Sanders Moffat founded Kirrin Finch to offer women and nonbinary folks menswear-inspired fashion. Unlike other clothiers who offer a time-consuming bespoke experience, Kirrin Finch offers ready-to-wear suits by piece, allowing customers to mix and match sizes and styles in a less-expensive (yet still customizable) fashion. Kirrin Finch currently offers suiting in 13 sizes from zero to 24.
Duchess Clothier (instagram.com/duchessclothier)
A custom clothing shop out of Portland, Oregon, Duchess Clothier offers made-to-measure suits and separates for every body and every occasion. They offer suit and tuxedo packages at multiple price points, making it easy to plan around your individual budget and needs. Duchess Clothier also offers custom shoes and accessories, making them a one-stop shop to ensure you look (and feel) great from head to toe.
Remember, the most important aspect of your suit is that you feel comfortable and amazing in it. Take the time to check out your options, shop around, and know that there are suit makers waiting to clothe and celebrate you just as you are.
