Life
If you want to see some silly, outrageous, or downright beautiful outfits, then look no further than a Pride parade. As these Pride parade outfits demonstrate, this event brings out some of the most biting and beautiful ensembles around. Wherever you happen to fall on the Kinsey scale, you're sure to love these looks.
Although these parades and other Pride events are a tremendous amount of fun — as they should be — Pride also brings up some serious social and political issues that face the LGBTQ community today. For instance, some of the outfits reference marriage equality, spoof political leaders, or even pay homage to victims of LGBTQ violence. With this in mind, Pride events are not only a fun mixer for the community, but also a public way to address these pressing issues. Sometimes an outfit that's over-the-top and silly at first glance has a deeper social meaning. And in many ways, openly standing together with others at an LGBTQ event is a sort of political act in and of itself. "All of us who are openly gay are living and writing the history of our movement," said Senator Tammy Baldwin, the first openly gay U.S. Senator, according to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Attending a Pride parade is one way to make history.
Plus, it's just healthy to go out and let loose from time to time. Seriously, if everyone got a chance to run around in fun costumes every once in a while, the world would probably be a kinder place. But until that time, there's Pride. Scroll on to see some of the best costumes that just might inspire your next look, or even make you think about LGBTQ issues in a whole new light.
1
Chance Of Rainbows
This colorful bunch is all set for the parade. But don't look so confused, Rainbow, because you're the star of the show.
2
Trumped-Up Dress
Nobody expresses political thought with the grace and hilarity of Pride paraders. This dress says so much without a single word. Also, I'm legitimately impressed with the craftsmanship of that ballgown.
3
Stars & Stripes Forever
This person puts a whole new spin on the old stars and stripes combo. And it looks fantastic.
4
Wedding Attire
A wedding dress that supports marriage equality? I'm totally here for it. (Also, when else do you get to re-wear a wedding dress for a worthy cause?)
5
Glammed Up
Pride parades are all about being true to yourself and embracing self-expression. If that means some mega-long falsies, under-eye glitter, and perfect brows, then go right ahead. Actually, I'd love to see under-eye glitter become an acceptable everyday look.
6
Going Green
The monochrome look never looked so bold. This outfit proves that more is more.
7
Blooming Beauty
Become the beautiful flower of your dreams at a Pride parade.
8
A Cape With A Message
Alongside all the fun and pageantry, Pride goers also make somber observations about the way LGBTQ individuals face discrimination and even violence in the modern world. Beneath its rainbow boa, this cape includes the name of victims from the Orlando Pulse nightclub shooting. It's a sobering reminder of the dangerous reality that so many LGBTQ people live in.
9
Heartfelt Costumes
Even a spade and a diamond agree: love always wins.
10
Sequins For Days
There's no such thing as too many sequins, really.
11
Perfection All Around
The bright sunglasses, the bold necklace, and the rainbow hat — it's all perfect.
12
Kings Of Hearts
These kings know what really matters: love.
13
Tutus
Look, running around in a tutu is just fun.
14
Angel Wings
Hey, if you're going to use a prop, then make it big. This angel knows all about making a statement.
15
Neon Lights
If it isn't neon, it shouldn't be on.
16
All The Yes
Making an outfit out of candy is absolutely brilliant. Plus, you'll always have some snacks on hand. Well done.
17
A Statement Tee
It's a simple statement, but it's still a very powerful one.
