The TransLatin@ Coalition is preparing to spotlight artistry, culture, and community at this year’s GARRAS Fashion Show, where performance artist Gia Gunn will receive the 2025 “Trans Spirit of Resilience” award. The event, now in its 11th year, returns Saturday at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood.
A Milestone Moment for a Trailblazer
Gunn, known to many from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 6 and “All Stars” Season 4, has steadily built a global audience through live shows, online performances, and her outspoken advocacy for trans rights. She publicly came out as a transgender woman in 2017 and has used her platform to educate audiences on issues affecting the 2TGI community.
Her background in kabuki theater, a nod to her Japanese American heritage, continues to shape her style and stage work. Gunn often incorporates elements of classical Japanese dance into her performances on television and on her YouTube channel, adding a cultural layer that sets her work apart.
The “Trans Spirit of Resilience” award honors individuals across the Two-Spirit, transgender, gender-expansive, and intersex spectrum who uplift their communities and expand representation.
What to Expect at GARRAS 2025
This year’s show brings together a wide range of designers presenting collections rooted in self-expression. Some will debut their brands publicly for the first time, while others return with new visions that stretch the boundaries of queer fashion.
Featured designers include:
- Antonio of He by Luhan (men’s couture)
- Leandra Rose of LEANDRAG (fashion for queens)
- Enrique Montes of Dreams Bridal (formal wear)
- Vanessa Cervantes and Metzli of BornXNaked (intimates)
- Müko of Müko Upcycle (custom upcycled garments)
- Ayo of ObaAyo (unisex designs)
- Marisol Martinez and Simi Aguilar of Simi Creations (a grandmother–granddaughter design team)
The evening will also include the presentation of two $5,000 vocational scholarships. For many attendees, GARRAS is more than a runway, it’s an annual affirmation of visibility and joy within the 2TGI community.
Last year’s show drew more than 700 attendees and generated close to $300,000, with appearances from Zaya Wade, TS Madison, Shakina, Alexandra Grey and other well-known supporters.
“Our Existence Is Resistance”
TLC President and CEO Bamby Salcedo describes the show as a celebration that stands in contrast to Transgender Day of Remembrance.
“It uplifts the lives of 2TGI people who are still here,” Salcedo said. “In these political times, we must celebrate our community showcasing our lives because our existence is resistance.”
Media opportunities are available in advance and on the red carpet. Interviews can be arranged with Salcedo, TLC Vice President and COO Maria Roman-Taylor, and participating designers.
Tickets are open to the public, with proceeds supporting TLC’s work and the 2TGI community.
Those interested in attending can secure tickets through the TransLatin@ Coalition’s event page.
