Strutting Out The Closet

"Strutting Out The Closet" is a gender-affirming fashion event. We'll be raising funds to support the Centre for Sexuality and inspiring people to feel affirmed in clothes that feel authentic to them. Have you ever worn clothing that felt inauthentic to you? Gone into a store and had to choose between shopping in the "women's" or "men's" section, only for things to not fit your body or make you feel good? Fashion and style allow us to express how we want to show up in the world. We want everyone to feel a sense of gender euphoria, especially queer folks. 

The event is hosted at espy Experience (1009 9 Avenue S.E.) in collaboration with Letters Apparel. Letters Apparel is a new Calgary-based clothing brand focused on the needs of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Letters Apparel design their clothes based on body shape, not gender. 

As this is a gender-affirming fashion event, we aren't just stopping at the runway. We'll have gender-affirming hair stylists available to offer a cut you feel good about (space is limited), and clothing fittings from your espy professional stylists who are body type experts – with experience dressing all gender expressions. To keep you entertained, we'll have DJ Sonidef at the DJ booth and surprise pop-up performances by queer artists from our community. 

The Centre for Sexuality is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. For 50 years the centre has been leading the way in sexuality, healthy relationships, human rights, gender identity, sexual orientations, equality, and consent.

Thank you to our sponsors: 

Freddie:

Awkward doctor’s visits are a thing of the past. Freddie’s team of clinicians and pharmacists will provide affirming and evidence-driven care, without judgment. 90% of Freddie patients get PrEP and free delivery. PrEP reduces HIV risk by up to 99%. Book your free consult at gofreddie.com or follow them @go_freddie on Instagram.

Hammer Headz Salon:

A collective of amazing individuals you can visit for just about any of your salon needs. Hammer Headz is located in Bridgeland and queer owned.  You can scope them out on the gram @hammerheadzsalon or book an appointment on their website at hammerheadzsalon.com

Gradient Beverages: 
Gradient is the world's first gradually reducing alcohol pack, bringing together multiple strengths of vodka in one box. This revolutionary approach gives you new levels of control over your night, allowing you to start strong then maintain your vibes through the night, without going overboard. Learn more about Gradient beverages at drinkgradient.com or follow them on social @gradientvodkasoda on Instagram.  

True Büch: 
True Büch Kombucha was started with the belief that improving gut health can be a delicious and sustainable endeavour. They're also passionate about collaboration with other local businesses, supporting their employees and the community and adhering to zero waste principles. To learn more about them, head to truebuch.com or follow them on social @true_buch on Instagram.

 

Tailgunner Brewing Co. 
Every one of Tailgunner's beers is brewed with a quality-first mentality from ingredient selection to brewing method. They do not take shortcuts, chase fads or compromise procedures. Their hope is that you enjoy their beers, and take some time to remember and uphold the standards of community, quality of character, and moral values that inspired the greatest generation. Learn more about them at tailgunnerbrewing.ca or follow them on social @tailgunnerbrewingco

 

Sensuale Intimate Wellness

Sensuale Intimate Wellness provides body safes sex toys, carefully curated for some seriously radical pleasure. Always discreet, never subtle. LGBTQ+ owned and operated. You can find them on their website sensuale.ca or sensualeintimatewellness on Instagram.

 

Support our local restaurant scene and grab dinner before the show! Our friends at The Attic Bar & Stage and Vegan Street Inglewood are offering one free appetizer per group of two to event attendees! Please show your ticket at the restaurant to claim this deal. Check out their menus at - theatticyyc.ca and veganstreet.ca