Based in the UK, Carmen Sui-Lung Liu started her brand 10 years ago – out of necessity. When Sui-Li began her transition, she quickly realised a dearth of lingerie brands for tucking, designed to minimise the appearance of bulging and achieve a smoother, more gender-affirming appearance. Like any smart business woman with a can-do attitude, she decided that she would be the one to do it. Carmen Liu has since expanded into bras that vary in sizes to include wider shoulder widths, as well as clubwear and a best-selling satin thong. A 2020 Forbes 30 Under 30 alum, Sui-Lung plans to add additional categories to the line in an effort to fully dress her community. Though functional, Carmen Liu doesn’t skimp on sex appeal, and should be on every trans femme’s list.
Chromat X Tourmaline
Chromat owes much of its popularity to sporty-chic bodywear and a brand identity that celebrates body inclusivity. After collaborating with the activist-artist Tourmaline on a collection video during the pandemic, Chromat designer Becca McCharen-Tran decided they wanted to continue working together; the duo landed on a swimsuit collaboration.
As a transgender woman, Tourmaline was cognisant of the gap in the market for swimwear designed for varying gender expressions. What I appreciate about the collection is that it caters to varying tastes and comforts. There are rash guards suitable for trans men not ready to go shirtless on the beach; a swim skirt I have my eye on is perfect for girls who want functionality out of their swim bottoms; and bikini tops that range in size from XS to 4X. Expect to see plenty of these boldly coloured separates on Fire Island and Riis Beach this summer – if you haven’t already spotted them.
Judith
A young designer living at the China Town/Lower East Side border of New York – I dare not refer to that location as Dimes Square – Erik Goldberg launched their label at the beginning of the pandemic after losing their job at another design house. Had Erik been assigned female at birth, their mother would have named them Judith – beyond chic, in my opinion.
Formally trained at Pratt, Erik had a front-row seat to the transgender renaissance that was birthed during the pandemic. I’ve watched them sew girls into party dresses and design costumes for the lead singers of indie bands; they have their finger on the pulse of what’s happening. Their upcoming collection will be released later this year and features a mix of bold, boudoir-ready lingerie and surrealist-inspired garments. They’re all perfect for parties – and late nights at the afters.
