Our mission here at the Trans Wardrobe Project is to increase Joy in the lives of Trans Americans through clothing as FREE Gender Affirming Care. We do that by collecting community based clothing donations, and then curating a completely free custom-capsule wardrobe for our Wardrobe Recipients. Clothes aren’t just a necessity–they’re also an artistic tool that we can use to express who we are, and help ourselves to feel more comfortable in our bodies. Clothes are also fun, and we all need a little more of that these days, but clothes, like a lot of items are Capital-E-Expensive.

Cost should never be a barrier between a person and their Gender Affirming Care needs. But unfortunately, most of the time, that’s not the case, as Gender Affirming Care costs can be very prohibitive. And, as inflation is on a steady rise, and Trans Americans remain in a lower income bracket due to higher rates of discrimination, social stigma, violence, and more, Gender Affirming Care that is otherwise available to everyone, (...clothing!), is becoming increasingly unattainable for many in our community.

While cost seems to be the most prevalent barrier between individuals and clothing as Gender Affirming Care, lack of community, and a fear of being visible is also an issue for many in our community. It is no secret that Trans folks may face violence when they are visible in today’s world, thus many are uncomfortable clothing shopping in public spaces. Additionally, many individuals report feeling very overwhelmed with the sizing, and style process when they lack Trans Community. As a self-led organization, our Wardrobe Curation Team is a diverse group of Trans individuals who have experienced a clothing transition themselves, have a passion for fashion, and a desire to give back to their community.

And, because we’re rehoming clothing items, we’re helping our Earth by keeping clothing items out of landfills! Did you know that 73% of apparel is sent to landfill or incinerated, 95% of which could be reused or recycled? Well, now you do!

Clothes are an absolute necessity, and they also have the ability to bring us joy, boost our confidence, and make us feel more like ourselves, and Trans Wardrobe Project is here to meet this need with joy because Trans Joy is beautiful, sacred, and life saving.

– TWP