PRIDE 50th Anniversary: Words from the founder of Spectrum Outfitters
This June is the 50th anniversary of the UK’s first official PRIDE! We spoke to Jack, the founder of Spectrum Outfitters – an incredible LGBTQ+ focused brand that makes environmentally friendly clothing and specialised garments for LGBTQIA+ people.
Jack Jones, founder of Spectrum Outfitters
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the inspiration behind Spectrum Outfitters?
My name’s Jack, my pronouns are He/Him, and I live in Coventry (UK). I came out as a trans man in 2015, and now I run Spectrum with my two sisters: Jessica, and Lily.
When I started transitioning, good quality chest binders were inaccessible for many trans folx in the UK and Europe. Customs and delivery charges from reputable companies in the US were extortionate, so we had to go for cheaper, lower quality and often unsafe options.
After I got an injury from wearing one of these unsafe binders, I decided I wanted to do something about it, so I started Spectrum Outfitters. The company was founded to provide a safe, affordable, and accessible binding option for queer people in the UK and Europe.
Image from Spectrum’s Summer Collection
What issues have you faced as a trans man, and who supports you?
My biggest daily support is my partner, who helps me get through whatever comes my way.
My transition began seven years ago. I am lucky that I work for myself now, with my supportive family, as I know finding work and being employed as a trans person can be very challenging.
As I started transitioning medically at 23, it was difficult waiting for hormonal changes to catch up to how I felt and was perceived by the world. I have a few friends who transitioned at a similar time to me, and I have appreciated their support and our shared experiences so much. It’s good to have people who understand what you are going through. I won’t name them but shout out to my dudes!
What do you feel are the biggest issues facing the LGBTQ+ community in 2022?
Misinformation and scaremongering - in part led by certain media outlets – are concerning issues to me, but I know there are many amazing activists and prominent LGBTQIA people fighting this and giving the community an honest voice.
“It’s easy to get caught up in what’s cool or to prioritise what other people want for you, but they aren’t the ones who live your life every day - so do it for you!”
What does Pride Month mean to you?
I always try to think about the people that have come before us. I view the Pride movement as an annual reminder of the progress we have made as a community, and a platform to highlight the issues that we, as a society, must still address.
You have to be brave to be yourself in a world where, often, it’s frowned upon to stand out. I feel proud every day to be a part of a community that is so brave.
Image credit: Mercedes Mehling on Unsplash
In general, what can people do to support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community this month?
One of the most direct ways people can show their support during Pride, is to support LGBTQIA+ businesses and charities. If you can afford to shop or donate, then that’s great! If you can’t afford to, then you can help to spread awareness about the organisations on social media for other people who may not know.
We have partnered with several amazing charities for our Binder Recycling Scheme, where we collect and redistribute used binders for people who don’t have access to new ones.
Do you have any advice for young trans people?
Your journey in life is for you, no one else. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s cool or to prioritise what other people want for you, but they aren’t the ones who live your life every day - so do it for you!
And finally… a quick round:
A book/blog/podcast you'd recommend:
I’m a bit of a fantasy nerd when it comes to books, so if you like the genre of fantasy and haven’t read the Mistborn series by Brandon Sanderson, why not give them a go?
Dream holiday destination:
I really would love to go to Japan (it’s been a dream of mine for ages). Hopefully one day soon I can go!
Your favourite Drum and Bass artist:
I don’t know if I have a favourite artist, but there’s a playlist I have been listening to on Spotify by Discover Records called ‘Liquid Drum and Bass 2022’. That’s my favourite subgenre: Liquid 😊
We at Goodfind love the chance to hear from amazing business owners in the community, and want to thank Jack for sharing his inspiring journey and tips with us this Pride!
Check out next week’s blog post to hear more about Spectrum and other brands to keep on the radar.
Words by Emily Weedon