An age-old distinction of humanity, gender, is now losing its hold in society. With acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community came learning about each of its many acronyms and umbrella terms, such as genderqueer. Genderqueer is an adjective describing people who do not conform with society’s idea of gender and identify as neither, both or a combination of genders. More institutions and products are being made to support genderqueer and gender-fluid people.
Mattel, in an effort to make androgynous children feel recognized, created the first non-binary doll. The doll launched Sept. 25 and ran by the slogan: “A doll line designed to keep labels out and invite everyone in.” While this could be seen as a risky choice that may ostracize certain buyers, it shows Mattel believes the world is headed in a gender-less direction. Just last year, Mattel removed its gendered labels from its toys, following suit from Disney removing “boy” and “girl” labels on children’s costumes and Target removing gendered toy aisles in 2015.
Beyond the toy aisles, gender neutrality is taking storm in movements and fashion. The Phluid Project, based in New York, is a gender-less clothing store that features weekly designer pop-ups as well as a constant clothing line. Writing that humanity should “express themselves openly, without judgment or fear — only freedom” on the walls of the establishment, The Phluid Project serves as a store in favor of the safety of the soul. Phluid doesn’t just work with the LGBTQIA+ community, it also features popular brands such as Levi’s, Fila, John Deeriere and Formula Z Cosmetics and their take on non-binary fashion. Their growing customer base and continual work with well-known brands shows how even fashion, an element long dictated by “male” or “female” titles, is adapting to the new age of gender.
Fashion shows are also portraying this new take on gender. In Miami, “Genderchill,” a fashion show for queer individuals, took place March 27. All in all, society is starting to unwind from its conforming behaviors and growing into a more inclusive, gender-neutral space.
