JADE, the magnetic former member of British girl group Little Mix, is diving deeper into her solo era with her newest single “Plastic Box,”a shimmering house-pop track laced with raw emotion and a pulsing beat made for late-night dance floors and lonely bedroom listens alike.
The song, released ahead of her debut solo album That’s Showbiz Baby! (due out Sept. 12), offers a personal and bittersweet take on emotional insecurity. JADE describes it as a “happy-sad” anthem, grappling with the irrational jealousy that can bubble up when thinking about a partner’s past, something many listeners are likely to find relatable.
From Girl Group Fame to Glittering Solo Star
Since her days topping charts and collecting awards with Little Mix, JADE (full name Jade Thirlwall) has stepped confidently into the solo spotlight. Her debut single “Angel of My Dreams” became a cult favorite turned mainstream success, earning her a BRIT Award for Pop Act and a nomination for Best Contemporary Song at the Ivor Novello Awards.
She kept the momentum going with the infectious “IT girl” and the tongue-in-cheek kiss-off track “FUFN (Fuck You For Now),” each showcasing a different shade of her artistry. Now, with “Plastic Box,” JADE brings vulnerability front and center, wrapped in a fast-paced, danceable package.
What’s the Song Really About?
In a press statement, JADE explained that “Plastic Box” explores “irrational and toxic insecurity” in relationships, particularly the unease that can come from imagining a partner’s previous loves. “Even though we know everyone has a past, it can still feel complicated,” she said. “It’s one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written.”
The track was co-written with GRADES and Lauren Aquilina and co-produced by Oscar Görres, names familiar to anyone tuned into the modern pop landscape.
A Nod to Madonna and a Balloon to Match
The music video is just as evocative. Featuring a heart-shaped mylar balloon and stylistic nods to Madonna’s iconic “Don’t Tell Me” video, the visual blends nostalgia and heartbreak with fashion-forward flair. JADE’s artistic direction continues to signal that she’s not just stepping out on her own, she’s claiming new territory.
Upcoming Album and Sold-Out Tour
That’s Showbiz Baby! will arrive Sept. 12, featuring collaborations with a stacked lineup of producers and artists including RAYE, Cirkut, Pablo Bowman, Mike Sabath, and Lostboy. The album promises the same mix of theatrical flair, emotional honesty, and danceable beats that JADE has been serving in her solo singles.
Ahead of the release, JADE will embark on a sold-out UK and Ireland tour, with dates kicking off in Dublin on Oct. 8 and wrapping up with a show at London’s Roundhouse on Nov. 22.
Fan Reactions: Pop Lovers Are All In
JADE’s fans have been quick to share their thoughts on social media, with “Plastic Box” already earning comparisons to Robyn’s emotional dancefloor bangers and Dua Lipa’s sleek pop production.
One fan posted, “JADE YOU MAKE IT SO EASY TO ROOT FOR YOU.” Several Little Mix stans praised JADE’s evolution, noting her confidence and authenticity as a solo artist, “JADE never disappoints! ‘Plastic Box’ MV is a whole vibe.”
What’s so cool is that it follows the standard POP mv codes, the story, the choreo, the euphoric last part, the outfits changes, the epic last shot. & it fits JADE’s narrative & style perfectly, the paparazzi, the frenetic edit, the energy.
As anticipation builds for her fourth studio album Virgin, Lorde has dropped one final taste of what’s to come: “Hammer,” an intoxicating track that explores fluid identity, carnal cravings, and the chaos of city life. Released just a week ahead of Virgin’s June 27 debut, “Hammer” offers a genre-blurring opener that feels equal parts euphoric and introspective.
The 28-year-old New Zealand artist describes “Hammer” as “an ode to city life and horniness tbh,” in a tweet that captures the song’s offbeat charm and simmering sensuality.
A Sonic Slow Burn
Co-written with Jim-E Stack, her main collaborator on Virgin and rumored romantic partner, “Hammer” blends hazy synths, stuttering beats, and Lorde’s breathy delivery into something that resists easy categorization. Produced alongside Buddy Ross, a go-to for Frank Ocean and Travis Scott, the track plays with tension: building steadily toward a beat drop that never quite hits, only to pull back into a delicate hush.
The lyrics are bold, vivid, and deeply personal:
“There’s a heat in the pavement, my mercury’s raising. Don’t know if it’s love or if it’s ovulation.”
From hormonal humor to emotional vulnerability, Lorde navigates her evolving identity with lines like:
“Some days I’m a woman, some days I’m a man.”
It’s a powerful moment of gender reflection that marks a continued theme in her recent interviews, suggesting Virgin may be her most intimate and experimental project yet.
A Horny, Hypnotic Visual
The “Hammer” music video, directed by Renell Medrano, is visually lush and unabashedly sensual. Lorde lounges in a mesh hammock, frolics with pigeons, dances with friends, and possibly gets inked on-screen, all while radiating chaotic serenity. It’s a shift from her usual restraint, leaning into raw, embodied energy.
There’s weed-smoking by a lake, naked moments in the sun, and an overall sense that Lorde is freeing herself from both genre and image constraints. It may be the most uninhibited visual she’s ever released.
Fans React to “Hammer”
Online, fans have been quick to crown “Hammer” as one of Lorde’s boldest tracks yet. On X (formerly Twitter), the reaction was swift and breathless. One user wrote, “Lorde’s new single is a whole vibe, I’m here for it.” Another posted, “Obsessed with this shot from Lorde’s music video for Hammer.”
Others praised the song’s fluidity, both in sound and subject matter. “The lyrics on Hammer might actually be some of Lorde’s very best, and that’s not even the best aspect of the song. Hammer certified banger!” said one viral post.
Lorde’s new single is a whole vibe, I’m here for it 🌙
The lyrics on Hammer might actually be some of Lorde’s very best, and that’s not even the best aspect of the song. Hammer certified banger! pic.twitter.com/oOwXAEH9ci
— days until virgin is released (@holdingnogrudge) June 20, 2025
Virgin Era Incoming
Following the singles “What Was That” and “Man of the Year,” “Hammer” sets the tone for what’s shaping up to be one of the most intriguing pop albums of the year. Virgin features a stacked roster of collaborators including Blood Orange’s Devonté Hynes, Daniel Nigro, and Fabiana Palladino.
An international tour begins in September, with artists like Blood Orange, Empress Of, The Japanese House, and Nilüfer Yanya joining her on select dates.
With Virgin, Lorde appears ready to reintroduce herself, not as the brooding minimalist of Melodrama, but as a sensual, shapeshifting provocateur embracing ambiguity, vulnerability, and joy.
It’s been 10 years since Will Jardell sashayed onto national television in a pair of 6-inch patent leather heels and made reality TV history onAmerica’s Next Top Model Cycle 21. At just 24 years old, he was fresh out of college in Texas and still navigating his identity when he stepped into the ANTM house — unknowingly stepping into a transformative decade of self-discovery, queer visibility and viral representation.
Now 34, Jardell is a husband, a reality TV champion (The Amazing Race, anyone?), a fashion trailblazer and a proud voice for LGBTQ+ authenticity. In an exclusive interview with Gayety, he reflects on what a decade of living out loud has meant for him — and for the queer people inspired by his journey.
From Small-Town Texas to High-Heeled Fame
“When I filmed America’s Next Top Model in 2014, I had no clue what was next for me,” Jardell said. “I had just graduated from college and was this small-town kid who suddenly found myself on a show I grew up loving. It changed everything.”
Following his time on ANTM, Jardell moved to Los Angeles — and never looked back.
“ANTM brought me my husband, a new understanding of myself, and completely rerouted where my life was going,” he said. “When I watch my season now, I can see my growth in real time — especially in my confidence and self-acceptance.”
While some former contestants have since criticized their time on the show, Jardell remains grateful, even acknowledging the complexities of the experience.
“America’s Next Top Model” Cycle 21 finalists Denzel Wells, Adam Smith, Ben Schreen, Romeo Tostado, Will Jardell, Matthew Smith and Keith Carlos attend the premiere party for Cycle 21 of “America’s Next Top Model” presented by NYLON magazine and the LINE messaging app at SupperClub Los Angeles on August 20, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Michael Tullberg/Getty Images
“It was wild. There were definitely pros and cons — quite a few cons,” he added with a laugh. “But for me, it was powerful and rewarding overall.”
Coming Out, On Camera
One of Jardell’s most memorable ANTM moments wasn’t just a fashion statement — it was a personal revolution.
“I’d only come out to a handful of people before filming,” he said. “When I stepped onto the judging panel in heels that first time, it wasn’t just for drama. It was me stepping into who I wanted to be, not who I’d been pretending to be.”
Behind the scenes, a casting director actually told Jardell not to wear the heels. He ignored the advice, asked a PA to grab them off the bus, and walked out as his full self.
“That moment changed my life. If I was going to promise myself I’d show up authentically, why let someone else tell me otherwise?”
The vulnerability he brought to the screen resonated far beyond the Top Model audience. LGBTQ+ fans, particularly young queer people wrestling with their own identities, saw themselves in Jardell.
“I don’t know if I ever truly accepted myself as a gay man before the show. But getting that encouragement from the judges, other contestants and even the crew? That was the beginning.”
The Unexpected Echoes of ANTM
Though the runways and eliminations are long behind him, Jardell admits that certain things still linger — like the very specific scent of the Top Model house.
Model Will Jardell attends America’s Next Top Model Cycle 21 premiere party presented by NYLON and LINE at SupperClub Los Angeles on August 20, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Rachel Murray/Getty Images for NYLON
“I know it sounds weird, but I still remember what the house smelled like,” he said. “Lights, cameras, all of us crammed in there — maybe it’s trauma, but it’s definitely unforgettable.”
He also treasures the unplugged connections he made while filming.
“We didn’t have phones. So you really got to know people,” he said. “Some of those relationships became deeper than ones I had in real life at the time.”
Becoming a Public Figure — And Staying Grounded
While ANTM gave Jardell visibility, the sudden spotlight was a challenge.
“I didn’t feel qualified to be a public figure,” he said. “I was still figuring out who I was, and suddenly people had all these opinions.”
He leaned on his Texas roots and LA support system — and chose authenticity over image.
“This was 2014, when YouTubers were just becoming a thing and Instagram was blowing up,” Jardell said. “I’ve always tried to present my most honest self online. I had to get comfortable with people not liking me, and I had to protect my own self-worth.”
His approach to social media and public life remains the same: stay kind, stay real, and never compromise who you are.
Fashion Then vs. Now: Breaking Gender Norms in Style
One of Jardell’s most lasting contributions to pop culture is how he helped push boundaries around gender expression and fashion — something he continues to embrace.
“When I first bought those heels in 2013, I could barely find a size 16,” he said. “Now I can shop men’s heels online with ease. Fashion has come so far in just ten years.”
He regularly shops across both the men’s and women’s departments, guided by one principle: if it fits and feels right, wear it.
“Fashion is about expression now. It’s not about boxes or binary,” he said. “I’m inspired by creators and everyday people who are boldly wearing what they want.”
Even athletic wear has shifted. Jardell recalls preparing for The Amazing Race in 2018 and struggling to find colorful workout clothes for men.
“Our team color was purple and we could barely find anything in stores,” he said. “Now, men’s sections are often more colorful than women’s. That kind of inclusivity — even in something as simple as gym shorts — makes a difference.”
Winning The Amazing Race — and Popping the Question
In 2020, Jardell returned to reality television alongside his partner, James Wallington. As a couple, they competed — and won — Season 32 of The Amazing Race, making history as the first openly gay couple to do so.
“We weren’t trying to be anyone’s version of the ‘right’ gay couple,” Jardell said. “We just wanted to have fun and be ourselves.”
Their victory was a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation — but the real heart-stopper came at the finish line, when Jardell proposed.
“I’d been carrying the ring the entire season, waiting for the right moment,” he said. “Phil [Keoghan] pulled us aside afterward and told us how big this moment was. That’s when it hit me.”
The proposal aired on national television — marking the first same-sex engagement in American reality TV history.
“We didn’t do it for that title. We did it for us. But realizing what it meant to others? That was powerful,” he said. “Even now, people come up to us or message us about what that moment meant to them.”
Reality TV Lessons: Resilience, Strategy and Realness
Reality competition isn’t all glamour and prize money. Jardell said his experiences taught him how to stay mentally tough and camera-ready.
“Being on ANTM prepared me for a lot — like how to be filmed constantly, and how to think ahead during interviews,” he said. “But what really helped was understanding the impact of perception. You always wonder how things will look in the edit.”
One thing fans don’t see? The downtime.
“People think The Amazing Race is nonstop action,” he said. “But we spent hours in airports. We brought a deck of cards to play with other teams — partially for bonding, partially for strategy.”
Each hour-long episode boils down days of intense travel, stress, and emotional highs and lows.
“There’s so much that never makes the final cut — things that absolutely change how you interact with other teams or how you compete.”
What’s Next for Will Jardell?
While Jardell is enjoying married life and continuing his advocacy through fashion and media, he hasn’t ruled out a return to TV.
“I’m always down for a new adventure,” he said. “Put me on The Traitors, Big Brother, Survivor — I’m ready.”
More importantly, he remains committed to using his platform for good.
“I want to continue showing people that joy, love and authenticity are worth sharing,” Jardell said. “Visibility matters. Being yourself matters.”
A Decade of Pride
Ten years after he walked into the America’s Next Top Model house as a hopeful, closeted 24-year-old, Will Jardell has become something more: a fierce advocate, a fashion trailblazer and a symbol of queer joy in mainstream media.
“I still ask myself, what if ANTM had never called?” he said. “That one moment launched me into a life I never dreamed possible. I’m so grateful — and I’m proud of what I’ve done with it.”
From heels to history-making proposals, Will Jardell proves that sometimes the boldest thing you can do is simply show up as yourself.
Chicago has officially earned the title of the safest city in the United States for LGBTQ+ travelers, according to a new report released by Misterb&b, a leading LGBTQ+ travel platform. The 2025 Queer Safety Index evaluates cities based on public safety data, anti-discrimination laws, local protections, and FBI hate crime statistics to determine the most welcoming destinations for queer travelers.
While other LGBTQ+ hotspots like San Francisco and Seattle continue to be synonymous with acceptance and Pride, it’s Chicago that takes the top spot this year, thanks to its longstanding commitment to inclusivity and its vibrant queer neighborhoods, including Northalsted (formerly Boystown), Andersonville and Uptown.
“We looked at booking trends and real-world data to predict the safest cities for LGBTQ+ travelers in 2025,” a Misterb&b spokesperson told Travel + Leisure. “It’s about combining where people are actually traveling with where they’ll be safest.”
Where Safety Meets Community: Chicago’s Queer Legacy
Beyond the data, Chicago boasts a deep-rooted queer history. Choose Chicago, the city’s tourism board, proudly notes that Northalsted was recognized as the country’s first official gay neighborhood. With rich community infrastructure, Pride celebrations that rival New York’s, and robust local protections, it’s easy to see why LGBTQ+ visitors feel at home.
The city’s top ranking reflects a growing trend among travelers to prioritize destinations where they can be themselves—without fear. It’s not just about fun nightlife or Instagrammable drag brunches. It’s about safety, visibility, and belonging.
It’s almost time for the 2024 Pride Fest! 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️ This two-day street festival, now in its 23rd year, is a celebration of LGBTQ+ life, culture, and community in Chicago’s landmark LGBTQ+ Northalsted neighborhood. This year’s music headliners include: • Jojo Siwa • Natasha Bedingfield • Bob the Drag Queen • Sapphira Cristal …and more! 💰 $15 suggested donation helps pay festival workers, performers, and funds community programs 📍 Halsted & Addison 🗓️ 6/22 – 23, 11am-10pm 🎥: @courtneytheexplorer for Pride Fest Chicago and @northalstedchicago
Each city was selected for its legal protections, cultural openness, and relatively low rates of LGBTQ+ hate crimes. The full list is available at Misterb&b’s website, which doubles as a travel booking platform for queer travelers seeking welcoming stays.
The Bigger Picture: LGBTQ+ Safety in the U.S. and Abroad
Misterb&b’s index comes at a time when queer safety is more than just a vacation consideration, it’s a matter of survival. Out Leadership, a global LGBTQ+ advocacy group, recently released its State LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index, which assesses how supportive each U.S. state is for queer residents. States like New York, California and Colorado earned top marks. Meanwhile, Arkansas ranked lowest for the third year in a row, with other conservative-led states like South Carolina, South Dakota and Alabama trailing close behind.
The line between red and blue states has never felt starker. Advocacy groups say the difference in LGBTQ+ quality of life now hinges heavily on state-level politics.
“Equality is under siege in many parts of the country,” said Todd Sears, founder and CEO of Out Leadership. “Progressive states are reinforcing rights, while conservative ones are pushing harmful legislation.”
Nonprofits Overwhelmed by Spike in Relocation Requests
Organizations like TRACTION and Canada’s Rainbow Railroad, which help LGBTQ+ individuals relocate to safer communities, are facing unprecedented demand. In 2025 alone, Rainbow Railroad received over 3,000 requests for international relocation assistance from queer Americans, a 1,000% increase over last year.
In Washington state, TRACTION’s director Michael Woodward said his team has been inundated with pleas from trans people in places like Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas. “We used to get a few applications a week. After the last election, we’re seeing up to five a day,” he said.
With limited staff and skyrocketing need, many groups are struggling to meet the moment. Moving across states, especially for marginalized people, comes with massive financial hurdles, from housing and jobs to healthcare access.
As political polarization deepens, LGBTQ+ Americans are increasingly using resources like the Queer Safety Index to decide not only where to vacation, but where to live, work and raise families.
Internationally, countries like Canada, Malta, and New Zealand continue to rank highest for LGBTQ+ safety. Meanwhile, domestic travel requires more scrutiny, especially in regions where queer rights are under active threat.
In a time of shifting laws and rising hostility, queer travelers are doing more than just chasing sunshine, they’re chasing safety.
Chrishell Stause and G Flip brought queer joy and a kiss-cam-worthy moment to centerfield at the Los Angeles Dodgers Pride Night, where the couple celebrated community, visibility and each other. Their PDA-packed appearance wasn’t just a show of affection, it was a celebration of love and unapologetic self-expression.
While G Flip rides high on their new era of music (think disco cowgirl meets queer line dancing), it was their moment at Pride Night with Chrishell that had fans buzzing across the internet.
The “Selling Sunset” star and the Aussie pop-punk cowboi made their affection loud and clear with a string of photos from the Dodgers’ annual Pride Night, which took place June 14. In snapshots posted Thursday, the couple shared kisses and grins on the field, surrounded by friends, fans and a glowing rainbow-lit stadium.
Chrishell made sure to give a nod to GLAAD in her post and shared a message from the Dodgers highlighting their commitment to inclusivity, even noting the organization’s pushback against federal agents attempting to access the stadium’s parking lots. It was clear her Pride post had extra punch.
A Weekend of Pride and Power Suits
Before hitting the stadium, Chrishell turned heads at the L.A. Pride Parade in a dazzling pink sequin mini, giving full “Barbiecore realness meets real estate mogul” energy. Meanwhile, G Flip was riding the momentum of their latest music drop, performing “Big Ol’ Hammer,” a cheeky, sapphic country-pop anthem, across Europe and Pride events throughout the month.
G Flip’s Big Ol’ Gay Era
In true Yeehaw Agenda fashion, G Flip’s newest single, “Big Ol’ Hammer,” is an ode to gender euphoria, sapphic swagger and unapologetic queerness. Lyrics like “I can be any size that you like” are campy, confident and made to be screamed in a crowd of fans waving fans, bandanas and cowboy hats.
The music video, inspired by Grease Lightnin’, is set in a sweaty auto shop packed with queer icons like The L Word: Generation Q’s Jacqueline Toboni and comedian Fortune Feimster, all grinding, wrench-turning, and body-rolling in perfect choreography.
For G Flip, who is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, the project represents a joyful rebellion.
Mighty Hoopla and a Mighty Cry
G Flip’s recent performance at Mighty Hoopla in London brought the crowd, and the artist to tears. Despite not playing the main stage, they were stunned by the sea of fans screaming their name and waving their arms to a track that hadn’t even been released.
“I’m really soft, and cry really easily,” they said. “When everyone cheers your name non-stop… my eyes water and then I cry.”
The crowd felt like a queer utopia, a contrast to the harsh realities trans and non-binary people face daily. That visibility, they stressed, is vital.
“I never had that representation when I was growing up,” they said. “So I always want to be that for other people.”
Fan Reactions
On social media, fans flooded Chrishell’s and G Flip’s comment sections with hearts, flames and cries of “Such a beautiful couple. Happy pride babes!” One fan commented, “Keep living life with beautiful happiness.” Another wrote, “You two are the CUTEST!!”
A Queer Home Run
From choreographed grease-stained dance numbers to a full-on makeout sesh at a baseball game, Chrishell and G Flip are redefining what queer joy looks like in public spaces. And if their Pride month plans are any indication, the rest of us are just lucky to be watching from the bleachers.
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is back in her rodeo era and proving once again that she knows how to make a moment. The global superstar launched her Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin’ Circuit Tour with a Juneteenth show at Stade de France in Paris, and brought a surprise guest to help kick it off.
Midway through the June 19 show, Beyoncé thrilled the crowd by inviting Miley Cyrus to join her onstage for a live performance of their Grammy-winning duet, “II Most Wanted.” The collab, originally featured on Beyoncé’s genre-blending Cowboy Carter album, was performed live together for the first time, and fans were not ready.
A Star-Spangled Start in Paris
Beyoncé took the stage around 8:56 p.m. local time, opening her first European date on the tour with gratitude and flair.
“Paris, France, I have to say I’m very grateful to be on this stage. We have a very special show for y’all,” she told the crowd.
Decked in a gold ensemble, with Cyrus matching the metallic glam, Beyoncé welcomed the “Flowers” singer with an emotional introduction.
“I love y’all so much,” she said before bringing Miley out. “I’m super excited because I wanted to do something very special for you guys. I’m so grateful to sing with you, Ms. Miley Cyrus.”
The two artists shared a cheek kiss and held hands before delivering a powerful rendition of their country-infused hit. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the audience soaked up every note.
Beyoncé and Cyrus’s duet isn’t just fan service, it’s award-winning. The pair took home the Grammy for Best Country Duo/Group Performance earlier this year for “II Most Wanted,” which fans have praised for its emotional depth and genre-defying sound.
“Please give it up for Miley,” Beyoncé said as the crowd roared post-performance. “That was amazing.”
The ‘Cowboy Carter’ Era Rides On
The Cowboy Carter tour, which first launched at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles in April, has been a dynamic showcase of Beyoncé’s evolution as an artist. The setlist spans genres, from country to R&B, gospel, and even Americana, and is laced with cultural nods and family ties.
The Paris opener is just the beginning of her international stops. Beyoncé is set to perform again at Stade de France on June 21 and 22 before continuing the global leg of the tour.
Fans in Full Rodeo Frenzy
Online and in the stadium, fans couldn’t get enough of the Beyoncé-Miley moment. Social media lit up with reactions ranging from teary-eyed emojis to full-blown scream typing.
“THEY SOUND AMAZING LIKE OMFG MY HEART,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).
Another posted: “This was not on my 2025 bingo card 😭”
TikTok clips of the duet quickly racked up views, with fans applauding the performance’s elegance, synergy, and show-stopping surprise factor.
That the show kicked off on Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, wasn’t lost on many fans either. Beyoncé, who has long centered Black history and culture in her work, layered the moment with deeper meaning through both her music and her message of unity.
With more tour dates on the horizon, it’s safe to say the Rodeo Chitlin’ Circuit is already delivering standout moments, and we’re only at the starting gate.
In a world where rainbows are scrutinized and Pride displays are disappearing, this strand of rainbow lights shines a bit brighter during these dark times for the queer community.
Created by a small but mighty (mostly queer-owned company) out of Ogden, Utah, Tru-Tone is handcrafting vintage-style LED decorations that look like they were plucked from a 1950s department store window.
And yes, they have the exact same nostalgic glow we’re all missing from the modern LED-style displays we see today.
From Nostalgia to Innovation
Tru-Tone began as a passion project by designer David Andora. Living and working in Chicago, David often leaned on vintage-inspired design and warm atmospheric lighting in his creative work. But modern LED “upgrades” to classic holiday lights always fell short.
They lacked the soul — and the glow — of the big incandescent bulbs that defined his childhood celebrations.
Frustrated by the focus on hyper-saturated colors and app-controlled gimmicks, David set out to recreate the feeling of wonder we have all been missing. Over the course of a year, using a large chunk of his personal savings, he worked directly with manufacturers to craft an LED bulb that felt authentic — right down to the warmth of the filament and the tone of the glass.
Lights That Feel Like Home
The result? A collection of decor to celebrate all sorts of events, from Christmas to the Fourth of July and now Pride.
Tru-Tone has become a cult favorite, known for delivering the hard-to-replicate magic from our childhoods without the fire hazards, blown fuses, or scorched fingers you’ve undoubtedly seen (or felt).
David, his partners John Francisco and Sean Hunt, and a small team are responsible for running the entire brand — from product development to customer service to graphic design — even the Tru-Tone jingle!
Introducing: The Spectra Rainbow Light Set
Now, Tru-Tone is showing up to celebrate the queer community when many companies have notably been absent this Pride season. Say hello to their first non-holiday release: the Spectra Rainbow Light Set.
It’s a bold, beautiful string of 24 rainbow LED bulbs that radiates retro joy.
True-Tone Spectra Rainbow Light Set
“We leaned into other mid-century graphic references for the packaging,” the Tru-Tone team shared. “This combo of lights is so special and super queer and retro all at once.”
The launch couldn’t come at a more poignant time, with rainbow flags being banned or boycotted nationwide, including Utah, where the company is headquartered. But you know what they haven’t banned? A string of rainbow lights!
Tru-Tone pushed to get this set released, no matter the complications in manufacturing. “We really had to make every effort to get this set out there this year,” they said, “because it matters.”
True-Tone Spectra Rainbow Light Set
Every Detail, Made with Pride
Despite the team’s small size, their vision is expansive.
From light installations and rainbow-branded backdrops to illuminated logos and creative collaborations — Tru-Tone aims to brighten events and communities year-round.
Now more than ever, it matters where we spend our money. Queer-owned businesses and the ally brands that show up for our community — especially when it’s not trendy — deserve our support.
Our dollar is our power, and choosing to invest in companies that invest in us is how we build lasting change. Visibility isn’t enough — we need to back it up with action. When we support the businesses that stand with us year-round, we’re not just shopping — we’re shaping the future we want to live in.
For Tru-Tone, this isn’t just a strand of lights. It’s a colorful reminder that queer celebration never goes out of style.
In a decision poised to reshape the legal future of transgender healthcare in America, the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld Tennessee’s law banning gender-affirming care for minors, igniting sharp reactions from legal experts, medical professionals, and LGBTQ+ advocates.
The 6-3 ruling, delivered Wednesday, greenlights Tennessee’s restrictions on puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and transition-related surgeries for those under 18, positioning the law as a potential blueprint for similar measures across other states.
A Legal Turning Point for Trans Youth
The case, U.S. v. Skrmetti, was brought by families of transgender youth and a healthcare provider who argued the law unfairly targeted and harmed trans minors. Enacted in 2023, the Tennessee law prohibits physicians from providing gender-affirming treatment to anyone under 18, regardless of the patient’s medical history or psychological evaluations.
Writing for the conservative majority, Chief Justice John Roberts stated that the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment does not settle “intensely disputed medical and policy questions” related to gender identity and youth care.
“The Equal Protection Clause does not resolve these disagreements,” Roberts wrote. “This case carries with it the weight of fierce scientific and policy debates… the implications for all are profound.”
While the court did not weigh in on whether transgender people constitute a protected class requiring heightened legal scrutiny, the ruling opens the door for more state-level restrictions to survive judicial challenges. Twenty-four other states have enacted similar legislation.
The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld a Tennessee law that restricts access to gender-affirming care for minors experiencing gender dysphoria, a decision that is likely to have broad implications for access to medical treatments for transgender youth in half of the country. The three liberal justices, Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, were in dissent.
The court’s liberal wing, led by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, issued a blistering dissent. Joined by Justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, Sotomayor argued the Tennessee law is rooted in sex-based discrimination and directly harms transgender youth.
“This case is about whether Tennessee can forbid doctors from providing necessary medical care to transgender teenagers,” she wrote. “The answer should be a resounding no.”
Calling the majority opinion “incredibly dangerous,” Sotomayor accused the court of retreating from meaningful judicial review and abandoning vulnerable youth “to political whims.” She took the rare step of reading her dissent aloud from the bench.
Advocacy Groups, Experts, and Online Communities React
The Supreme Court’s decision drew swift condemnation from civil rights organizations, medical professionals, and a wave of voices online.
The American Civil Liberties Union, which represented the plaintiffs, issued a strongly worded statement calling the ruling “devastating.” Chase Strangio, the ACLU’s deputy director for transgender justice, warned that the decision paves the way for further legal attacks on gender-affirming care nationwide. “Today’s ruling is a loss not just for trans youth and their families, but for anyone who believes in the basic constitutional right to access medical care,” he said.
Online, the backlash was swift and emotional. The hashtag #TransRightsAreHumanRights began trending on X (formerly Twitter), with thousands expressing solidarity with trans youth. Congresswoman Ayana Pressley posted, “Make no mistake: This is a coordinated attempt to further control our bodies and our lives.” Congressman Shri Thanedar also chimed in saying, “No court should decide a person’s worth, and I’ll never stop fighting for trans communities across this country.”
The Supreme Court just turned its back on trans kids. We won’t.
In a disappointing decision, the Supreme Court ruled this morning to uphold a Tennessee law that blocks gender-affirming care for trans kids.
No court should decide a person’s worth, and I’ll never stop fighting for trans communities across this country. https://t.co/LOvVt8kUlC
— Congressman Shri Thanedar (@RepShriThanedar) June 18, 2025
Political Implications and the Path Forward
The ruling arrives amid a national wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. The ACLU has tracked over 500 such bills in 2025 alone, with more than 100 directly impacting healthcare access. Activists warn that this Supreme Court decision could embolden lawmakers to pursue additional restrictions, not just for minors, but for adults as well.
Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti praised the ruling, framing it as a defense of “common sense over judicial activism.” He urged lawmakers to base future healthcare laws “on science, not ideology.”
Meanwhile, the Biden administration, which had backed the plaintiffs, criticized the court’s decision. While the ruling didn’t address parental rights under the 14th Amendment, it’s expected that new legal battles on that front may emerge.
President Donald Trump, who returned to office in January, has already issued executive orders targeting gender-affirming care, though some were immediately challenged in lower courts. His administration praised the Supreme Court’s decision, with a spokesperson claiming it protects children from “barbaric procedures” based on “junk science.”
What’s Next?
The ruling does not mandate bans nationwide but gives states broader legal cover to implement similar laws. It also sets the stage for future Supreme Court showdowns on trans participation in sports, healthcare for adults, and other civil rights matters.
While trans youth in more progressive states may continue to access care, Wednesday’s decision underscores the deepening divide over transgender rights in America.
As advocates regroup and prepare for new legal fights, one message remains clear: the future of trans healthcare, and the dignity of the youth who depend on it, hangs in the balance.
Juneteenth is upon us, and it’s not just a day off, it’s a call to honor liberation by investing in the communities that continue to shape culture, style, and resistance. For generations, Black Americans have marked June 19 with joy, remembrance, and activism. The holiday commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas finally learned of their freedom, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
While Juneteenth only became a federal holiday in 2021, Black communities have long treated it as sacred. And this year, there’s a powerful way to celebrate: by supporting Black queer-owned brands whose visions are as vibrant and boundary-breaking as their founders. These seven entrepreneurs aren’t just making products, they’re building legacies.
1. Automic Gold: Everyday Jewelry, Every Gender
Automic Gold is rewriting the rules of fine jewelry. This queer- and trans-owned brand handcrafts every piece in recycled 14K gold and ethically sourced gemstones. Think minimalist rings, delicate chains, and custom nameplates that affirm your identity with a bit of sparkle. Their gender-free approach makes accessorizing a joy, whether you’re stacking up or keeping it subtle.
In Brooklyn, partners Jannah Handy and Kiyanna Stewart turned a passion for collecting into BLK MKT Vintage, a treasure trove of Black history and culture. From rare books and retro vinyl to ’70s tees and radical zines, each item feels like a time capsule. It’s not just décor, it’s preservation with a purpose, spotlighting Black queer stories that deserve to be seen and celebrated.
Charlotte’s own Chef Joya is proof that vegan doesn’t mean boring. A proud Black lesbian, Joya’s culinary creations blend soul food with Afro-Caribbean, African, and French influences. Her plant-based dishes have earned love from celebrities like Fantasia Barrino and thousands of fans across the South. This Juneteenth, why not add a little plant-based love to your plate?
Launched in 2020 by Nigerian-American designer Kingsley Gbadegesin, K.NGSLEY isn’t just a fashion label, it’s a movement. The brand’s genderless silhouettes celebrate queer, femme, and trans bodies with unapologetic confidence. With fans like Lil Nas X and Zaya Wade, K.NGSLEY proves that style can be both political and personal. The brand also reinvests in grassroots organizing and mutual aid efforts, making fashion a force for liberation.
5. A Tribe Called Queer: Streetwear That Speaks Up
If you’re looking to make a statement, A Tribe Called Queer has you covered, literally. Founder Chance Jones created the brand to merge fashion and activism, with streetwear that champions Black queer visibility. Their bold prints, cheeky slogans, and unapologetic pride aren’t just stylish, they’re a rallying cry.
6. Inkwell Fine Art Prints: Stories for Your Walls
Jason Hodges, a proud Black gay artist, launched Inkwell to make fine art more accessible, and more representative. The brand’s prints are vivid, powerful, and deeply rooted in themes of freedom, legacy, and queer joy. It’s not just wall art—it’s a statement of pride, resilience, and reclamation.
Jenn Thompson founded A Rainbow in Your Cloud to infuse home goods with heart. Think throw blankets, art prints, and décor that blends softness with strength. Her designs layer gentle pastels with empowering affirmations, turning any space into a personal sanctuary.
Juneteenth is more than a history lesson, it’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go. Supporting these Black queer-owned businesses isn’t just feel-good consumerism; it’s a meaningful way to honor the resilience, creativity, and leadership of communities that have always shaped the culture.
So this June 19, and every day after, shop with purpose, uplift Black queer voices, and let your dollars do the talking.
Charles Melton has traded in his tux for trainers, and the internet is losing it.
In Coach’s newest campaign for the Soho Sneaker, the May December actor ditches the red carpet glam for something a little more… shirt-optional. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Alma Har’el, the cheeky new short film titled Not Just for Walking shows Melton at home, caught off guard by paparazzi. In a slick move, he tosses his Soho Sneakers out the window as a decoy, before slipping into a backup pair and dashing off, abs and all.
The vibe? Athletic, playful, and just a little chaotic, in the best way.
Melton, 34, first joined the Coach family as a brand ambassador in September 2024, debuting in the Fall “Unlock Your Courage” campaign and holding court front row at the Spring 2025 runway show in New York. His effortless blend of old-school Hollywood charm and contemporary cool made him a perfect fit for the brand’s evolving image.
And while he’s no stranger to tailored suits, this campaign lets him flex, literally and figuratively, in a more laid-back, dynamic look that’s still dripping with star power.
Photo: Coach
Photo: Coach
The Sneaker That Does It All
Coach’s Soho Sneaker isn’t just another fashion-forward footwear drop. Inspired by late-’80s and early-’90s cross-training shoes, the design leans into comfort, versatility, and just the right amount of retro edge. Originally debuted on the Spring 2025 runway, the Soho is now hitting the streets with an inclusive campaign starring not just Melton but a crew of boundary-pushers like Audrey Nuna, Satou Sabally, and NASCAR’s Toni Breidinger.
According to Coach, the Soho was “made to embrace the many expressions of the wearer’s life.” Whether that’s high fashion, high speed, or high drama (à la Melton’s stealthy escape), the sneaker is built to keep up.
Photo: Coach
Photo: Coach
Melton Gets Candid
In a recent interview with Esquire, Melton opened up about his experience shooting the ad, saying, “The whole environment and the vibe of the days we spent filming and shooting were very loose and free. I felt like I was allowed to express more of a playful side of myself, which I don’t get to do too often in front of the camera.”
That ease radiates through the campaign, making his performance feel authentic, fun, and, let’s be honest, kind of hot.
Social Media Reacts: “Charles Melton, Please Step on Me (In Those Shoes)”
Naturally, the internet didn’t take long to weigh in. Within hours of the campaign’s release, fashion fans and thirst traps alike filled timelines with one common message: Charles Melton is that guy.
“Take it all off already…”
“Back off, ladies & gays. That man’s taken by me.”
“Need to lick every drop of sweat off his body.”
And our personal favorite:
“God is great, God is good, let us thank him for our food”
Charles Melton’s latest turn with Coach proves he’s more than just a pretty face in a suit, he’s a versatile style icon ready to play. And with the Soho Sneaker built for life’s many sides, this campaign is not just a fashion moment, it’s a full sprint into summer.
