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Andrew Christian Bows Out: The End of an Era for Queer Fashion
READ TIME: 15 MIN.
If you’ve ever worn a pair of Andrew Christian underwear, you know it’s not just about the fit—it’s about the feeling. For over two decades, the brand has been more than a label; it’s been a statement, a sanctuary, and for many, a symbol of pride. Now, after a quarter-century of pushing boundaries, Andrew Christian has officially shut down his eponymous brand, marking the end of an era for queer fashion and culture .
The news hit the LGBTQ+ community like a wave, with fans and industry insiders alike sharing their memories and gratitude. From the iconic “Almost Naked” pouch to the bold “Show-It” designs, Andrew Christian’s creations have been a staple in queer closets, dance clubs, and pride parades. The brand’s final collection, aptly named “Bespoke,” was released in Autumn 2025, serving as a fitting farewell to a legacy that has shaped the way we see and celebrate queer bodies .
Andrew Christian’s journey began in 1997, when he launched his label from a garage in Los Angeles. What started as a personal project quickly grew into a global phenomenon, with the brand becoming the largest gay apparel company in the world. Over the years, Andrew Christian expanded his offerings to include swimwear, sportswear, and a range of sub-brands like “Trophy Boy, ” “THICK, ” “VIBE, ” “FUKR, ” and “ECO-collective, ” each catering to different facets of queer identity and experience .
The brand’s impact went beyond fashion. Andrew Christian’s marketing campaigns, featuring drag artists, dancers, and adult film stars, were revolutionary in their representation of queer bodies and desire. For many, seeing themselves reflected in these campaigns was a powerful affirmation of their identity and a source of courage to come out and be themselves .
In a heartfelt letter to his customers, Andrew Christian shared his decision to step away from the industry. “Fashion wasn’t just an aspiration; it was survival. It became my sanctuary, my declaration of gay existence. Each stitch was a heartbeat; each garment, not just a part of my story, but my coming out,” he wrote . His words resonated deeply with the community, capturing the emotional connection many have with the brand.
The closure of Andrew Christian is not just the end of a business; it’s the conclusion of a story that began with a young gay man with a dream and a sewing machine. Andrew Christian’s designs have set the agenda for many gay boutiques throughout the USA and abroad, and his influence can be seen in the way other brands approach inclusivity and representation .
As the brand winds down, fans are encouraged to shop the final collections while they last. Retailers like Deadgoodundies are offering curated selections of Andrew Christian’s bestsellers, limited editions, and core essentials, ensuring that the legacy lives on in the closets of those who cherish it .
Andrew Christian’s impact on the LGBTQ+ community extends beyond his designs. He has been a mentor and inspiration to many, and his story serves as a reminder that dreams can be realized, no matter where you start. In a recent interview, he reflected on his journey, saying, “Whatever dream you have, you can do it. If I can do it, then you can do it. I came from Fresno. I didn’t have anything and I built this whole empire,” .
The closure of Andrew Christian is a bittersweet moment for the community. While it marks the end of a beloved brand, it also celebrates the legacy of a designer who has made a lasting impact on queer fashion and culture. As Andrew Christian moves on to new chapters, his spirit remains committed to creating spaces where the unseen can finally recognize their own beauty .
For those who have worn Andrew Christian, the memories will live on. The brand’s final collection, “Bespoke, ” is a testament to the creativity, inclusivity, and unapologetic self-expression that defined Andrew Christian’s legacy. As the last styles are sold, there will be no restocks, no continuation, and no buyout—just a final, heartfelt goodbye to a brand that changed the game .
In the words of Andrew Christian himself, “What began as stitches of survival has blossomed into a legacy of love—and as I fold away the fabrics of this career, my spirit remains committed to creating mirrors where the unseen can finally recognize their own beauty,” .