If there's anyone who knows how to style a head-turning holiday party outfit, it's New York-based stylist Solange Franklin. 

With a roster of clients and projects spanning from Vogue to Glossier, Solange is known for creating looks that are as bold and multifaceted as the people who wear them. Her work is all about embracing femininity, diversity, and individuality—a perfect formula for holiday party outfits that don't just fit a trend but also embrace your own distinctive style. 

In a chat with Solange, we dug into her go-to styling tips for the season, from working with what's already in your closet to choosing the best shapewear to pull it all together. Whether you're dressing up for an elegant soirée (winter wedding, anyone?) or adding sparkle to a casual gathering, Solange's tips offer a fresh perspective on holiday dressing that's anything but one-dimensional.

Make a Statement with Color and Texture

"Character dressing is coming back," Solange notes, sharing her excitement for the way people are embracing their personalities through fashion. For the holiday season, she sees color and texture taking center stage, with trends like monochromatic outfits (think head-to-toe red) and eye-catching materials like sequins, feathers, and metallics.

“Power red pieces are everywhere, and I think it's perfect,” she says. Her advice? Embrace these bold hues and playful textures, whether you go all out in a shimmering sequined dress, go gauzy in chiffon, or add just a hint of bold hues through accessories. If red isn't your color, you can still capture the season's energy by leaning into other monochromatic styles that feel chic but can have a personalized edge.

You can also never go wrong with a pop of color—like a burst of green or hint of pink—especially if you're leaning into classic neutrals or sleek black hues. The same goes for metallic gold and silver metallic accents, which can instantly elevate any outfit.

Add Festive Flair to What You Already Own

One of Solange's top tips when it comes to holiday party outfits? Work with what you already have. “90% of the time, we already have the ingredients,” she shares. “It's just a matter of, how do we want to cook a little differently today?”

Her philosophy centers on reimagining the items in your closet rather than buying something entirely new for every occasion. Though if you are splurging on a new outfit in time for the holidays, she recommends going for something that extends beyond one season, “so you can exercise the full scope of your wardrobe.” 

To make everyday pieces feel festive, Solange suggests adding accessories that bring out the holiday spirit. A metallic bag or a pair of patent leather shoes (or faux leather), for example, can instantly elevate a classic blazer, slip, or high neck dress. “Any little festive nugget that you can give to yourself, it's going to provide that character,” she adds. 

Styling your wardrobe staples with a little extra holiday zeal will keep things fresh, but in a way that feels personal and unique.

Accessorize with Intention

Accessories, according to Solange, can be the defining detail that transforms an outfit. For holiday parties, she gravitates toward chunky gold rings, sculptural earrings, and belts with a metallic edge. “Keep a strong earring on deck,” she recommends, sharing her love for oversized, bold pieces.

To give a classic suit a fresh twist, Solange suggests overlapping the jacket and cinching it with a metal belt to create a new silhouette. “It's extended life out of your piece,” she explains. Whether it's a sculptural ring, a shiny belt, or statement earrings, accessories add the “wow” factor without overwhelming your look. 

And if you're opting for a monochromatic outfit, Solange advises finishing it off with a textured accessory—a feathered clutch or metallic heels—that creates contrast and draws the eye. 

“It's about the little sock. It's about the belt. It's about the confident, comfortable foundation underneath. And if you have the right foundation to your look, it's going to ring through, it's going to shine.”

Find the Right Foundation

Whether you're reimagining what's already in your closet or are eyeing a new dress, what's going on underneath your holiday party outfit stands to seriously elevate your look. This is where solid shapewear comes in, with its ability to instantly lift, smooth, and gently shape.

As Solange puts it, “It's just a seamless undergarment.” Plus, with customizable shapewear that adapts to various silhouettes, you can make one shapewear piece work across multiple outfits—from low backs to fitted minis. 

What makes customizable shapewear such a game-changer, according to Solange, is its flexibility. “If the hem is coming up just a little too much, you don't have to worry about if you want to trim it, you can actually customize it to the length that you need, which is revolutionary,” she explains. 

Alternatively, you can always embrace the underwear-as-outerwear trend with an intentional peek of your bra or bodysuit. “I'm not afraid to show a bit of my undergarments,” dishes Solange. “I think people should embrace that—we all know it's under there.” 

Solange's Holiday Season Shapewear Essentials

When it comes to personal favorites, Solange says, “Actually, I'm more of a high waisted brief girl, but I'm entering my bodysuit era.” She loves the comfort and security that shapewear provides, noting that a bodysuit can give “that comfortable hug where it's breathable, but I feel secure.” 

The versatility of a bodysuit with an open bust is ideal for mixing and matching with different bras or, as Solange says, “I have a smaller bust so I don't always need to wear a bra, which is nice to have that option.” 

Rather than feeling constricting, the right shapewear should feel flexible, gently compressing as it moves with your body—whether you're refilling your drink or hitting the dance floor. From high-waisted briefs to bodysuits, these foundational pieces allow you to look and feel your best. 

Solange's styling advice serves as a reminder that, at the heart of any outfit, confidence and personalization is the ultimate finishing touch. 

As you plan your holiday look, choose pieces that make you feel empowered and ready to celebrate. 

If your IG feed has been very frilly lately, it's not just you. Lace is having a serious moment right now. 

Dreamy and romantic, it's no surprise that lace has hit runways (and our top drawers) in a big way recently. And for that, we can most likely thank coquette-core—an aesthetic that, while simmering for a while, really took over our social feeds in 2024. 

Think bows, pink ribbons, ballet flats, xl-sized ruffles, Bridgerton, Lana Del Rey's entire discography—and voilà, you have achieved the feminine whimsy at the core of this trend. 

Vogue explains the aesthetic best: “In a world where cores can feel binary, like we are living in a universe where we are getting dressed a la a character on the Sims, coquette-core does give a little room for feeling. For flirtation! Tenderness! Expression!”

Where Lace Steals the Show

Feminine with a nostalgic, ethereal touch—nothing gives “a little room for feeling” quite like wearing lace does. And while you might think that its light and delicately crafted nature means you have to wait until summer to join in on the trend, that's simply not the case. Lace can (and should) be worn year-round—especially during the holidays and beyond for an aura of wintry romance. 

Whether you're going for a subtle touch of lingerie or want to fully embrace the dainty fabrics of this trend, lace is a really simple way to elevate your look. This is your sign to explore the airy, exquisite world of lace underwear this holiday season, and our suggestions for exactly how to do it.

It's the Ultimate Layering Trick

Lace instantly adds some sexy little intrigue when layered underneath a sweater or a cozy cardigan. Letting a lacy bra poke through (like this Gossamer Lace Bra) elevates the simplest look—even when wearing your chunkiest knit. Plus, forget any preconceived notions of lace as itchy and uncomfortable, gossamer is stretchy lace that's literally wear-all-day-and-night material. 

It's The Easiest Way to Get Inventive With What You Have in Your Closet

You could style lace over top, too. A lace cami over a turtleneck is a simple and cute way to create a holiday-ready outfit. Or, if you want to ditch your usual festive PJs, try going full Bella Hadid by wearing high-cut lace undies on top of another pair of underwear. It's a look that surprisingly works.

They're Perfect For Special Occasions 

The holidays are chock full of get-togethers and special events. It's the season of sparkle, which makes it the perfect excuse to turn a look—even when you're on your period. 

If you're not looking to make a statement with lace but, rather, are looking for a seamless look under even the sleekest of dresses, there are lace panties for that, too. A Gossamer Lace Thong will disappear under the most form-fitting of holiday outfits, while absorbing around 1 regular tampon worth of period flow or discharge. 

… And Perfect For Regular Occasions Too 

Okay sure, there's a lot of dressing up during the holidays. But don't forget the festive season is all about relaxing too (AKA sinking into the couch to enjoy a minimum of 3-4 holiday movies in one day).

Feel your best by gifting yourself a comfy bra. Gossamer Lace Bras don't just look super pretty, they're also comfy enough to wear every day. Soft, stretchy, and breathable—this is definitely not the lace the Bridgerton women have to struggle through. 

The Glow Up Your Winter Self-Care Needs 

With colder weather and shorter days, the gloominess of winter can definitely take its toll. While it's no spa day, leave it to a little lace to help cut through the drudgery. It's an easy way to add some much-deserved pampering to your regular, everyday routine. Think of it as a little boost that'll get you through to spring. 

Lace Gives You Hot Vibes for Cold Days

Winter wardrobes generally tend towards the dark, moody side. And while we certainly need our cozy, cold weather staples, sometimes we need to balance everything out with flirty vibes too. To that end, a pair of lace undies will do the trick.

Even if it's for no one's eyes but yours, they'll add a sexy boost of confidence no matter how many layers you have on. When Charli XCX said “Everything is romantic,” she definitely meant wearing lace thongs under your snow-shoveling-long-johns. 

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Whether you're after a much-needed winter confidence boost or want to add a sophisticated edge to your holiday look, shop the full Gossamer Lace collection.

Finding the perfect gift for your best friend can be one of the most fun-filled parts of holiday shopping. No one knows your friends quite like you do—whether we're talking friends for life or budding friendships. 

Friendship, after all, is all about mentally bookmarking all the things they've “oooh-ed” and “ahhh-ed” at while shopping; having an intimate sense of what items line their Pinterest boards; more importantly, knowing that their favorite bra is hanging by its last thread after years of near-everyday wear.

That's what makes gifting for your best friends such a thrill: you know what they need, but might never buy for themselves. Whether that's a luxe pajama set or the gift of getting a full night's rest on your period, there's something on this best friend gift list for every personality in your group chat. 

For the Best Friend Whose Clothes You're Always Stealing

The perks of having a trend-setting best friend is that their closet always has a full stock of clothing that's ripe for raiding. So to thank her for all the borrowing you've done this year, gift her the latest must-have wardrobe staple—the SculptRib Bodysuit.

Dress it down with sweats on a work-from-home day, or dress it up with wide leg jeans and sterling silver accents. She'll love how soft, smoothing, and versatile it is (and so will you when you ask to wear it a few months from now). Oh, and did I mention it's supportive enough to wear without a bra?

For the Best Friend You've Synced Periods With

Realizing you and your best friend have synced up is perhaps one of the top 10 most satisfying feelings in the world. Sure, science may say it's just a coincidence—but real ones know there's something magical going on.

This 3-pack of Period Underwear is perfect to celebrate the pal whose cycle matches your own. After all, if you're going to sync up your cramps and chocolate cravings, why not do your bestie the favor of being able to forgo the price of tampons?

For the Best Friend Who Puts Their Tree Up November 1st… And Doesn't Take It Down Until Valentine's Day

‘Tis the season for a new pair of pajamas. And no one appreciates an ultra soft and cozy PJ set more than your holiday-loving friend, or the interior design-obsessed friend who starts planning their holiday home aesthetic months in advance.

Designed for ultimate comfort, this Modal PJ Set is ideal for snuggling up by the tree and sipping hot chocolate—even well into January. Grab yourself a set, too, and get matchy-matchy on at-home movie nights. 

For the Best Friend Who Has Everyone's “Big 3” Memorized

This Revolution V-Neck Bra from the Astrology Collection is a great gift for the best friend who made you call your mom to ask her what time you were born, the friend who has an astro-engraved pendant, and the friend who always knows when the next full moon is. Available in every sign, they'll love their personalized astro print bra—almost as much as they love how cute and comfy it is.

For the Best Friend Whose Ideal Friday Night Plans Involve Staying Home

…and honestly, who can blame them! Your 9pm-bedtime-loving best friends will definitely feel seen in this dreamy and luxuriously soft Modal Rib Robe. In fact, it's a gift any morning person on your list will appreciate. But be forewarned: once the robe is in their possession, any remaining chance of them saying “yes” to plans later than 7pm goes straight out the window. 

For the Best Friend Who's the Trip Planner Of The Group Chat

Oh organized one! We thank you for all you do! For the beloved type-A friend who's always one excel spreadsheet of everyone else, there's a stylish matching bralette and boxer set that says “you deserve a break, too.”

Plus, this easy-to-wear pair comes with a bonus: the boxers have an absorbent Leakproof liner too. How efficient! You'll even save her the work of having to thoroughly research the best period underwear brands.

For the Best Friend Who's in Glam 24/7

This shimmering, cherry-hued Scoop Bra is the perfect bra for the best friend who is literally always sparkling—inside and out. It's the ultimate base layer for her never ending range of dazzling outfits.

For her, there's always space for another matching set of intimates, but this one will quickly ascend the ranks of her top drawer. The customizable straps also means it will work with the myriad of silhouettes that make up her wardrobe. 

For the Best Friend Who Hates Surprises

This is the friend you have to text “Can I call you?” instead of just giving her an unexpected ring. That girl needs ample time to prepare for… well, just about everything!

But gifting these super absorbent Leakproof Dream Shorts is one surprise she'll definitely welcome. They hold about 2.5 regular tampons' worth of liquid, and are no match for unpredictable leaks—day or night. 

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No matter what kind of bestie you have, there's no greater gift than seeing their faces light up when they unwrap a gift that will actually be put to good use. And the beauty of best friend gifts is just how personal you can get.

For more holiday gifting inspiration, check out our gift guides and curated collections. 

Known for her bold, yet sophisticated, sartorial senses, Mecca has styled the likes of Solange and Michaela Coel, bringing her distinctive creative vision to every project she touches. Her work exudes a sense of freedom, artistry, and a fearless mix of textures, patterns, and silhouettes.

It's vivid, yes, but also grounded in a deep understanding of how clothes should make you feel: confident, powerful, and completely at ease. And when it comes to shapewear, Mecca isn't interested in outdated notions of restriction or blending in. 

Shapewear has evolved, and she's here for it. Customizable shapewear, in particular, is a game-changer that's creating a major buzz in fashion circles, and Mecca sees it as a gateway to total wardrobe liberation. 

But with so many options and styles to choose from, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by how to start incorporating shapewear into your everyday outfits. That's where Mecca steps in—with insights that are as much about celebrating your unique shape as they are about finding the best shapewear pieces that truly work for you. 

Here's everything you need to know to get started.

Find Freedom in Customization

Let's cut to the chase—literally. One of the most exciting aspects of the best shapewear on the market today is that you can customize it to fit your look. While other shapewear serves a one-style-fits-all model, customizable shapewear is designed to be tailorable from home with nothing more than a pair of scissors for a custom-fit.

Mecca is a huge fan: “When I see things that are customizable, it just shows women how you get to create the world that you want to live in within the fashion choices that you choose instead of saying, ‘This is the shape for you.'”

Customizable shapewear means you're not stuck with a predetermined silhouette. “You can cut the back out wherever you need it to be,” Mecca points out, making it work for that daring open-back dress you've been eyeing or a dramatic thigh-high slit.

Whether you're shortening the shorts on a mid thigh bodysuit or looking to create an asymmetrical look with shaping shorts, it's about making shapewear adapt to your wardrobe—not the other way around.

Hot Tip 🔥 If you're nervous about reaching for the scissors, read up on how customizable shapewear works with this handy how-to guide. Depending on the shapewear style, garments will feature pre-marked cutting lines. The more you experiment, the more you'll see how shapewear can become an extension of your personal style.

Shapewear Is a Styling Tool, Not Just Underwear

It's time to stop thinking of shapewear as something that only belongs under your clothes. “I think investing in good shapewear is a good styling tool because you learn how to use your pieces in multi-layers and multifaceted ways instead of just keeping it to one type of experience,” Mecca explains. It's not just functional—it's a fashion piece in its own right.

Mecca loves to layer shapewear for different looks: wear a bodysuit under an oversized blazer, or pair shapewear shorts with a sheer dress for a hint of intrigue. The goal? To turn your shapewear into the subtle star of the show, not the hidden supporting act. “Show it off. I think it's not about hiding your shapewear,” she emphasizes.

For a booty-boosting hold that offers more coverage, shapewear bodysuits are an easy go-to for layering. But if you're looking to curate a look with minimal seams (AKA no visible panty lines), a thong bodysuit will do the trick—avoiding any unwanted lines, so you're only showing what you want to show.

Hot Tip 🔥Treat shapewear like any other part of your outfit. Layer a shapewear bodysuit with a high-waisted skirt or trousers, or let a lace-trimmed piece peek out from under a low-cut top. It's an easy way to add a bit of edge and sophistication to your look.

Accentuate What You Love

“I have always used shapewear as an opportunity to mold, create, elevate, and showcase what your body can do in all different forms,” says Mecca. This means forgetting the idea that shapewear is just about smoothing out so-called ‘flaws.' 

While shapewear garments can help provide additional support—especially in the lower belly and tummy area—it's about magnifying what you love, not camouflaging what you don't.

Rather, the best shapewear can be used a tool to accentuate your favorite features—whether that's lifting your bust with adjustable straps, defining your waist, or creating a sleek silhouette. Mecca's approach to most shapewear is to embrace your body's natural curves and shape.

“It's not about hiding; it's about elevating,” she insists. Choosing shapewear that feels comfortable, breathable, and works with your body can make all the difference.

Hot Tip 🔥 Look for pieces that have flexible, breathable fabrics that feel more like a second-skin than a suit of armor. The goal is to enhance, not constrain. And remember, shapewear should never feel like you're squeezing yourself into something—if it does, consider sizing up. 

Make Shapewear Staples Work for You

If you're wondering where to start, Mecca has a few essential shapewear pieces she reaches for when styling herself and her clients:

• High-Waisted Briefs: “I love high-waisted briefs,” Mecca says. “They're so versatile.” These are perfect for pairing with a fitted dress or high-waisted jeans to create a smooth, seamless silhouette.

• Open-Bust Bodysuits: These are the ultimate layering piece. Wear them under a blouse, blazer, or even a sweater dress. Mecca loves how they let you wear your own bra (or not bra at all) while still offering support and shaping. Bra sizes can be tricky, so if you feel attached to the hook and eye closure of your favorite bra, an open-bust bodysuit removes finding the right cup size from the equation.

• Spandex Tights: “I'll cut them up and use them as a tube top, biker short, or stocking,” Mecca reveals. They're an incredibly versatile base layer that you can style in countless ways, whether you're heading to brunch or out for the night.

Hot Tip 🔥 Don't be afraid to get creative with your shapewear—experiment with layering, customizing, and mixing pieces to create different looks. It's all about having fun and finding what feels right for you.

Style Shapewear with Confidence

Mecca's biggest piece of advice? “I think shapewear is sexy. I don't think it's something that needs to be hidden.” Confidence is key when it comes to wearing shapewear, and Mecca encourages people to show it off proudly. “I want to be able to take off my jacket or take off this sweater, and it's something that I feel really beautiful and chic in.”

Whether you're letting shapewear peek out from beneath your outfit or wearing it as a statement piece, the trick is to own it. Confidence is the most important layer you can wear.

Hot Tip 🔥 Start small—layer your best shapewear under pieces you already feel comfortable in, like a loose T-shirt or a tailored jacket. As you grow more confident, experiment with letting more of your shapewear shine, like wearing a shaping slip under a sheer dress.

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Curating a shapewear collection isn't about cluttering your top drawer, it's about selecting pieces that will work with your wardrobe and style. It's an easy way to elevate your outfits with pieces that make you feel both confident and chic. 

After all, shapewear isn't just about shaping your body—it's about shaping your style on your own terms.

If we were to take a peek into your top drawer, what would we find? Is it wireless bras that prioritize comfort, or lacy layers meant to make a statement? Are you a fan of cheeky thongs or the elegance of French cut underwear? While these pieces are often kept out of sight, they actually reveal more about your personality than you might think.

At Knix HQ, we spend a lot of time thinking about underwear—maybe more than is socially acceptable. But hey, when you’re in the business of period-proof and feel-good intimates, it’s practically second nature. Ask anyone on our team about their go-to period underwear style, and you'll get an impassioned answer, likely followed by a detailed rationale.

So, naturally, we got curious. What if we assigned personas to our favorite underwear styles? What would they be like? Fun, daring, sophisticated—just like their wearers.

If you've ever wondered what your favorite underwear style says about you, we have answers. 

High Waisted Underwear: CEO of Cozy

You’re the friend who always brings a blanket to the party. High-waisted underwear? It’s not just a choice—it’s a lifestyle. You’ve perfected the art of combining “snatched” with “snuggly,” and you definitely own at least three oversized sweaters.

You’re all about that retro throwback vibe, but you’re anything but predictable. You know how to turn heads with a killer red lip and can break hearts from the comfort of your high-rise jeans. You live for Sunday mornings in bed, and yes, you have a skincare routine that involves at least seven steps.

Thong: The Minimalist Maverick

Thongs are for those who like to keep things streamlined—no frills, just function. You’re a minimalist who knows that sometimes, less is definitely more. Plus, there’s nothing like the satisfaction of a perfect, line-free silhouette.

You’re the person who can’t stand clutter, and your inbox is always at zero. Curated essentials are what you’re after. And yes, your friends totally tease you for your capsule wardrobe—but secretly, they wish they could pull it off. 

French Cut Underwear: Paris in Your Pocket

Maybe you’ve never even been to Paris, but you still exude the understated refinement of French girl style. French cut underwear is your je ne sais quoi—just enough leg for a little drama, with a high cut that screams sophistication. 

You appreciate the finer things in life: croissants, well-lit selfies, and high-quality staples. People assume you’re put together, but they don’t see the mess of half-read novels on your nightstand. Your life motto? “I woke up like this,” even if you spent 30 minutes perfecting that effortless look.

High Waisted Thong: Business in the Front, Party in the Back

For you, life’s all about striking the perfect balance. You want the structure and coverage of high-waisted underwear, but you’re not ready to sacrifice the barely-there confidence of a thong. It’s like having your cake and eating it too, which is basically your life philosophy. 

You’re that person who works from home in sweatpants but transitions into chic mode the moment the Zoom call turns to cocktails. People think you’re all practicality, but the truth is, you know when and where to turn on the charm.

Boyshort Underwear: Comfy, Cool, and Unbothered

Whether it’s lounging in an oversized sweater or running errands in sneakers, you’re the type who looks polished without the fuss. Boyshorts are your default because, frankly, you’ve got better things to do than deal with wedgies. You’re all about comfort, but that doesn’t mean you don’t care about style—you just prefer it to feel easy-breezy.

You probably know the best local coffee shop, and yes, you have an opinion on which oat milk is superior. People say you’re down-to-earth, but that’s just because they haven’t seen you win a board game—your competitive side is low-key terrifying.

Bikini Cut Underwear: The Easygoing Classic

You’re the type who can go from morning yoga to spontaneous beach day without missing a beat—and you need underwear that can keep up. Bikini cut is all about balance: it’s equal parts practical and playful, just like you. 

You know how to keep things simple without being boring, and your low-key vibe makes you the go-to person for laid-back plans. Your wardrobe’s full of easy pieces that make it look like you’ve mastered the art of effortless—because, let’s be honest, you have.

Cheeky Cut: Just the Right Amount of Mischief

There’s something delightfully sneaky about a cheeky cut, and you embody that energy. You’re the person who can pull off a wink without it feeling cheesy, or leave just enough of a pause after a joke to make everyone wonder if you were serious. 

Your underwear might offer a little more coverage than a thong, but you’re not fooling anyone—you love to keep people guessing. You’ve got a sense of humor, a little bit of mystery, and an uncanny ability to charm your way out of (or into) anything.

Skip ahead for an individualized fall horoscope based on your sun or rising sign, or read on as we explore key cosmic dates and how these celestial events may affect you. 

On September 17th we welcome the Lunar Eclipse in Pisces which will shake things up, marking the beginning of an intense eclipse season. Expect feelings to surface and prepare for some deep insights during this time. 

Later in the month, on September 22, the Autumn Equinox brings us the start of Libra season. This is the moment to find balance and harmony in our lives, especially in our relationships. This shift invites us to seek beauty and connection with others, reminding us of the importance of partnership. 

October brings even more celestial drama. Mark your calendars for the Solar Eclipse in Libra on October 2. This eclipse will serve as a catalyst for new beginnings, so be ready to embrace how you relate to others. 

Mid-month, on October 17th, the Full Moon in Aries lights up the sky, igniting a fire within us. This is a time to unleash your inner warrior and take bold actions that align with your true self. 

Scorpio season begins on October 22, so prepare to dive deep into your passions and explore the mysteries that lie beneath the surface. This is a transformative time that encourages introspection and emotional healing. 

And who could forget we have Sambain October 30th and Halloween on October 31—each day filled with magic and mystery, it’s the perfect occasion to embrace your inner witch! 

November begins with a New Moon in Scorpio on November 1. This powerful lunation invites us to harness our inner strength and intuition, setting the stage for transformation.

The Full Moon in Taurus arrives November 15, emphasizing themes of stability and material comfort. It’s a time to reflect on what you truly value and seek balance between your sensual desires and practical needs.

More cosmic shifts continue as Pluto enters Aquarius on November 19 signaling a new era of transformation and innovation. This is followed by the start of Sagittarius season on November 21, where we’ll crave freedom, adventure, and a broader perspective. 

And, last but not least, we have Mercury retrograde which begins on November 25—which means we may experience some communication chaos as the planet of messages moonwalks through Sagittarius. But fear not! Embrace this energy as a moment and use this time to slow down, reflect, and welcome fresh perspectives. 

As we step into December, the cosmic vibes are buzzing with excitement and possibilities. This month kicks off with a vibrant New Moon in Sagittarius lighting up the sky on the 1st. This lunation is all about embracing spontaneity and opening ourselves up to unexpected adventures. 

But hold on tight, because as we dive deeper into the month, Mars retrograde begins, launching us into a few weeks of strange and unpredictable energy. This retrograde can bring about moments of confusion and miscommunication, so stay grounded and mindful. 

On December 15, the Full Moon in Gemini arrives, supercharging our energy and making everything feel a bit more intense. Expect conversations to flow and ideas to spark like fireworks! This lunar phase brings a buzz to our social lives, encouraging us to connect, share, and express ourselves. 

Based on these celestial happenings, here’s a forecast into what the fall months hold for each sign. 

ARIES ♈

This fall, focus on your personal goals and ambitions. The equinox encourages you to reassess your path and align it with your true desires. Embrace change and take bold steps toward your future. 

TAURUS ♉

A time for deep transformation awaits you. The equinox highlights your spiritual growth. Embrace introspection and consider what truly nourishes your soul. Trust your instincts as you navigate this journey. 

GEMINI ♊

Relationships take center stage this autumn. The equinox prompts you to evaluate your connections and release any that no longer serve you. Communication will be key to fostering harmony and understanding. 

CANCER ♋

Your health and daily routines come into focus. The equinox encourages you to establish new habits that nurture your well-being. Prioritize self-care and create a supportive environment for growth. 

LEO ♌

Creativity and self-expression shine bright this fall. The equinox inspires you to pursue passions and share your unique gifts. Embrace opportunities for recognition and joy in your endeavors. 

VIRGO ♍

Home and family life become significant during this equinox. Focus on creating a nurturing environment. Revisit family dynamics and consider how you can improve communication and understanding. 

LIBRA ♎

Communication and learning take precedence this autumn. The equinox prompts you to seek new knowledge and share your insights. Engage in meaningful conversations that deepen your connections with others. 

SCORPIO ♏

Financial matters come under scrutiny this fall. The equinox encourages you to assess your resources and make informed decisions. Consider your values and what truly brings you security and fulfillment.

SAGITTARIUS ♐

Personal identity and self-awareness are highlighted during the equinox. Embrace this time to explore your true self and set intentions for growth. Trust your instincts as you chart your course. 

CAPRICORN ♑

The equinox invites you to explore your inner world. Focus on self-reflection and healing past wounds. This is a time to release what no longer serves you and embrace a more authentic existence. 

AQUARIUS ♒

Community and social connections are emphasized this fall. The equinox encourages you to collaborate with like-minded individuals on shared goals. Embrace new friendships that inspire growth. 

PISCES ♓

Career aspirations and public image come to the forefront. The equinox asks you to reassess and align your professional goals with your passions. Embrace opportunities for advancement and recognition.

The stars have spoken: it’s time to upgrade your intimates. Shop the What’s Your Sign? collection and align your wardrobe with your zodiac.

For baker Julia Gallay, it looks like days spent in the kitchen of what can only be described as the ultimate cool-girl apartment—a converted unit in a heritage home in Toronto's trendy Trinity Bellwoods neighborhood. 

But to refer to Julia as a baker might be an understatement. As owner of micro bakery Gallz Provisions, her day-to-day more closely resembles that of a sculptor or painter. 

Whether she's taking inspiration from Italian architecture or the Japanese art of arranging flowers, her exquisite cakes are the epitome of edible art. Ethereal and one-of-a-kind, a distinct creative vision goes into each one of her thoughtful creations. 

Recently, we asked Julia to take inspiration in the earthy tones of our new Mushroom color drop. 

Naturally, her artistic take did not disappoint. Adorned with delicate flower petals, gold encrusted cherries, and an array of buoyant mushrooms, it's a whimsical incarnation of our new favorite underwear color. 

We sat down with Julia to chat about her creative process, sharing connection through food, and her preference for cake as artistic medium over dessert (she's a pie girl through and through). 

Is making beautiful cakes for a living as fun as it sounds? 

At the end of the day: yes. Sometimes, I'll just have moments when I'm in the thick of it [and think], I just get to bake and make cake all day—which is just amazing. But, of course, there are ups and downs, and the challenges of any job. 

I'm really lucky to be so creative in my everyday work, and also just finding a medium [where] my creativity can shine. 

Your cakes are more than just a delicious dessert, they’re works of art. What first inspired you to take such a creative approach to baking? 

There are specific rules of how you prepare certain things, but just you’ve got to do what feels good. I like to be creative with flavor combinations—and cake is a great medium. I really just wanted to hone my craft and be known for one thing and one thing only, which is why I only offer cake. I really believe in that philosophy.

Cake is a great medium [with] so many components and elements which allow creativity to shine. There's the sponge, there's the filling, there's the crunch factor or jam buttercream, and it's ever-changing.

Finding somebody who does cake really, really well is hard, [whereas] everybody's going to have their own opinion of their favorite chocolate chip cookie. It has to do with a lot of nostalgia. What type of cookie did your mom make when you were growing up? That will play into what you like and what you look for. 

I'll make what I think is the ideal chocolate chip cookie, and it will taste amazing, but my dad will always say his favorite are the ones that his mom made—even though they're arguably worse. 

Cake can be a really difficult dessert for a lot of people because it falls within your typical birthday or celebration. I've heard cake is not people's favorite. They haven't tried a cake that has so much intention with the way it's made. I think that a lot of cakes are made to look nice and they're made for tradition rather than it being a moment.

Whether it’s for birthdays or weddings, how does it feel to make special creations for people’s most intimate celebrations? 

It's really wonderful because it holds such a memory in people's minds. I meet people all the time and they're like, oh, you made the cake for my sister's engagement party, or they remember the exact moment, which is really special. 

I will forever love to hear those stories. For me, that's how I show that I care for somebody. It's by cooking them their favorite meal or their favorite dessert—that's how I show love to people. So when somebody appreciates that and tells me, it's so affirming.

My grandmother is the same way in Brazil. The way they provide for the grandkids, it's literally just by cooking them their favorite meals or making sure they're always fed. It's a level of communication almost. When I was a kid, we couldn't communicate, so the only thing we could communicate through was her making me food. 

How do you find ways to stay continuously inspired in your craft? 

Honestly, [I’m] inspired by anything and everything. It's hard to describe, walking around, [I’m] constantly inspired by things like plants, flowers. I find now I have such an appreciation for flowers and gardening. 

It's so fun to watch [the] transition of the seasons. I think it's important to stay curious. I'm not really inspired by cake at all. Sure. I'll be inspired by certain techniques that I see people doing, whether it's using a piping tip in a certain way that's fun. I'm always down to test that out, but it's deeper than that. 

It's usually coming from the way [an artist uses] the acrylic paint on the canvas with a scraper. I'm really inspired by pottery and ceramics as well. I’m really inspired by pottery and pottery tools and carving, and ikebana floral arrangements just because it’s so whimsical. 

It's random stuff, too. I'll do little meringues that kind of have these ridges. To me, they look like columns on an old building in Italy, and I love that. 

Despite being a self-proclaimed “cake lady,” you’ve mentioned not particularly liking cakes. What, then, is your favorite part of the process? 

I don't like to eat the cake, but I love everything about making it—and decorating is obviously the best part because you let everything go. It's not like you're focused on timing and this and that—baking is particular.

I just don't really have a sweet tooth at all, but I think it's helpful because there is that balance and making sure things are salty enough. Brazilian stuff is so overly sweet. It's so sickly sweet, and that's the shit that I grew up with—it grosses me out.

In honor of our Mushroom color drop, you’ve designed the most ethereal cake. Take us through the process of how you incorporated the theme into this design. 

I love playing with things from nature. I wanted it to be a similar color [to] the bodysuit, but having the mushroom on it was really important—just manipulating the mushrooms in a way that feels whimsical and fun, like the cake is the rock or vessel that the mushrooms are growing on in nature. 

I also think it's an element of color. You want colors to play really well together. I think it would've felt really muted if it didn't have a pop of something, and then I also really played with the idea that things just fell off the tree and landed there, so that's what I think about when placing flowers on the cake, [like] petals falling. 

I wanted to make it seem like those petals just fell there effortlessly, but it's actually super intentional. Maybe there's a cherry tree and they just fell.

It’s all about decorating the cake from a 360 point of view and making sure it's beautiful from any angle of the cake—kind of like a sculpture. It's not just about one side of it. 

This is different because it's more like a 3D total visual experience.

“I was kind of at this point in my life where I wasn’t feeling fulfilled in what I was writing about,” she tells me. “I was like, I’m really tired of writing about the Kardashians—I don’t want to be doing this anymore.” 

When she quit her nine-to-five to pursue music therapy, her freelance writing took on a newly personal form. In melding her pop culture prowess with her perspective as a second generation Chinese Canadian, she became increasingly passionate about advocating for the Asian North American community. 

Today, she’s a multi-faceted writer, speaker, and founder of a platform dedicated to celebrating, advocating, and elevating Asian voices in media, and beyond. Catch us in conversation with Madelyn ahead, as we chat about everything from the pitfalls of representation to the double edged sword of Asian-inspired beauty trends.

What sparked your passion for advocating for Asian representation in media, and how did it lead to the creation of The RepresentASIAN Project?

Growing up, not seeing people who looked like me and only seeing negative portrayals of that really made me feel embarrassed to be Asian, embarrassed to be Chinese. And I really tried to assimilate with my white peers as much as possible. I really tried to just stay as far away as possible from my own culture, and it was tough. 

I think I had so much internalized racism because of that, because I didn't see people who looked like me around me. Flash forward to 2018 when Crazy Rich Asians came out and that, as you may or may not know, was the first Hollywood movie in 25 years since the Joy Luck Club, to have a predominantly Asian cast, that was a huge moment. I ended up writing an article for FLARE Magazine about how this wasn't just a movie, it was a sign that I mattered too.

It was one of the first times I was writing about identity. I wrote that article and it was so well received. So I was like, okay, I think I could really do something here writing more from the lens of my perspective as a Chinese Canadian woman who's a second generation Canadian. 

I started to tailor my pitches to be more from my point of view and perspective. Some publications were great and they took the stuff; others said that it was too niche for their audience—which was very telling about the Canadian media landscape. 

In 2019, I was in school in the middle of doing an internship, and I suddenly got just a download of ideas. [I envisioned a] platform where it could be all from the Asian perspective. It's the kind of thing I wish I had when I was younger. 

I thought of the name The RepresentASIAN Project. I made a really terrible temporary logo and secured all of the account handles. That's how it started. The website officially launched March 11th, 2020, which was the day COVID was declared a global pandemic.

That was a very interesting experience. First of all, I was like, wow, there are much more important things to worry about right now in the world. But what was interesting was, as you probably know, there was so much Asian hate that came around that time.

I, of course, had to pivot from my original idea because we were in the middle of a pandemic. I couldn't go and interview people, take their photos, take videos, so it turned out to be very social-focused. It was the perfect timing because I think a lot of people, a lot of Asian people, needed that community.

As someone who was once a beauty editor and writer, how do you feel about the trend-ification of Asian-inspired beauty products and practices on social media?

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One of the mottos people used during the rise of anti-Asian hate was “love our people like you love our food.” I think that encapsulates what you're talking about too. People are so quick to be like, yes, we're going to adopt yoga, and TCM, and K beauty, and all of that stuff. 

It's a trend and it's popular, but are people actually learning about the traditional roots of it all? I see so many brands have jade rollers and everything, and I'm like, do you even know what this was initially used for? Are you putting down that history?

I think people are still so quick to jump on those things with all different cultures, but they don't necessarily want to put in the work to learn more about it and also give back to the communities where it comes from.

Personally, I try to make it a point of, if I'm buying a gua sha, I'm going to buy it from an Asian-owned brand. What's interesting as well is the shift towards the K-pop world. We are seeing a different standard of beauty than we used to see, but I think it's still so limited even within the Asian community—there's so much racism within it. 

When it comes to Asian representation in general, we're seeing more, but we're seeing a lot of the same people and the same kinds of people. That's where we still need to grow and expand.

How can storytelling and narrative representation be powerful tools for promoting understanding and empathy across cultures?

I think as a society, we have seen the power of storytelling. To hear someone's personal perspective, to hear about their experiences—whether it's joyful, whether it's traumatic—to give it more context is extremely powerful right now. 

Storytelling is humanity. You're putting that human aspect into the story, and that's really important. I think that's why it's so important for us, all of us, to be able to tell our own stories, to be able to have the platform and the opportunity to tell our own stories from our perspective and not necessarily have someone else tell it for us.

There's been a lot of films and TV shows where they'll have Asian actors or whatnot, but it's white writers or people who aren't Asian writers, and it's like, how are you going to understand all of the nuances, all of the little things. I think it has to come from that person or that community in order for it to be told the correct way.

In your view, what progress has been made in recent years regarding Asian representation, and where do you see room for improvement?

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It’s also about ensuring that off camera there's as much representation as there is on camera. I went to a talk a few weeks ago about Asian representation and diversity, and one of the speakers, who is an actor and producer based in LA, was talking about how visibility [has increased], but we're constantly seeing the same faces. 

It's certain actors [who] are getting much more visibility, so it seems like we have more [diversity]. I'd love to see other people get a seat at the table in these projects as opposed to seeing the same faces all the time, for them to be the token.

What role do media platforms play in shaping perceptions of Asian identity, and how can they better represent the diversity of Asian experiences?

I have a lot of qualms with traditional media having worked in it and seen what it's like from the inside. It seems like the agenda is still okay, give them a little bit here, give this community a little bit here, give this community a bit there. But as a whole, we're still going to keep going business as usual. 

Media can shape perception when there's bias. Of course, it's really, really hard for any person to not have bias based on their own lived experiences. But the scary part is, if one person's only looking at one news publication and it's only written from one point of view, that's all that person's going to know.

Media is so powerful because it's all we're consuming lately. We're also stuck to our devices. So what's being put out there? If stuff is homogenous, then I am almost scared for what the world will be if we can't have all of these different perspectives. 

Shannon Lee, Bruce Lee's daughter, was [at a recent talk] and she said something that I've been thinking about ever since. She was saying how diversity is health. If you think about it, when we are eating foods, we need to have a diverse range of foods. The ecosystem needs to be diverse. 

When things are homogenous, that's when diseases come up. Diversity is health. We need all of this for our society to thrive, for us to collectively thrive. 

What advice would you give to emerging Asian creatives who are striving to break into the media industry and make their voices heard?

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Put yourself out there. I think a lot of us are scared to put ourselves out there—whether we're scared we're not going to do as well as someone else, of how people will view us, or we're scared of being different. But all you can do is really put yourself out there because if anything, your story, your perspective is going to touch at least one other person. 

If I can touch at least one other person, I feel really good about that because it made another person feel less alone. It made another person feel less ostracized, less scared. It's just human connection. I think that's the other thing about storytelling, right? Storytelling is humanity, but also connection. It's how we connect to other people. 

How can individuals outside the Asian community support and contribute to the efforts of The RepresentASIAN Project and similar initiatives?

I think as a whole, it's just a matter of diversifying your life, whether you're diversifying your feeds, the content you consume, [or] the people that you interact with. I think it's really important to hear each other's stories and each other's perspectives. 

If you have the opportunity to support a small local business, do that as well. But I think the way forward is just diversifying your life.

Known for being outspoken about everything from her fertility struggles to her perimenopause journey, she's just as vocal about advocating for issues surrounding women's collective health.

A multi-hyphenate talent and screen queen, Gabrielle most recently added Knix Global Ambassador to her list of feats. Though a lesser known fact about the starlet is that she has excellent taste in lingerie. 

From neon-hued mesh to sophisticated sheer, the star of our Knix for Life campaign stunned on the set of our Mesh Collection photoshoot. Ahead, you'll find our favorite of Gabrielle's lingerie looks from the new sexy mesh capsule. 

 Comfy Meets Sexy

In case you haven't heard, sheer-everything is having a moment right now—and believe it or not, it's more practical than you might think. Designed for everyday wear using soft, single-layer mesh, Gabrielle stuns in the Mesh Deep V Bra. 

This wireless bralette features a deep plunging neckline, sheer fabric, and an airy feel that can be easily layered and paired with low-cut tops.  

But, of course, what's a sexy bra without an equally sexy pair of underwear to match? Sultry as it is sensible, soaring confidence is a known side effect of wearing Light Leakproof No-Show Mesh High Rise underwear with its peeks of mesh and subtle leak protection. 

Once again proving that sexy can be comfy, these period underwear absorb about the same as 1.5 regular tampons worth of blood, sweat, or pee. 

Bold Bodysuits

We love seeing the Mesh Deep V Bodysuit come to life on Gabrielle with its deep-v neckline and sizzling mesh side panels. She effortlessly proves our point: everyone needs a cool, sexy mesh bodysuit. 

Made with soft lined-mesh cups, the underwear-as-outerwear potential of this little number is virtually limitless. Layer this bodysuit under a flowy skirt or your favorite pair of denim, or take to the boardroom with a blazer over top. 

It's also perfect for layering under boyfriend jeans and a cardigan for happy hour with friends—though we're willing to bet you'll have slouched it off by 10 PM.  

Shades of Neon

Neon fashion has been making a comeback for a minute, it was only a matter of time until its welcome resurgence made its way to our top drawers. With warm, sunny weather on the horizon, we can't wait to see high contrast underwear grace summer street style. 

Gabrielle, of course, radiates in the Citron-tinted Mesh Deep V Bra and Light Leakproof No-Show Bikini combo. These comfortable, machine-washable period underwear feature Leakproof technology that absorbs the same as about 1 regular tampon—perfect as backup protection during heavier days, or on its own for lighter ones.  

Increasingly, undergarments are designed to be seen. And what better way to put your lingerie on display than with a little something sheer?

Similar to the underwear as outerwear trend, fashion's latest obsession with everything-sheer has an undertone of reclamation. There's something powerful about uncensoring the female body, areolas and all.

Are we finally in an era where 'Free the Nipple' is more than just a viral slogan? The more we see nipples grace red carpets and social media feeds, the more its shock value wanes. Because, well, everyone has nipples.

Lingerie is no exception to translucent trends. While sheer, sequin dresses might be appropriate attire to make at The Oscars, they're still a little brazen for Sunday brunch. Sheer bras, on the other hand, are an everyday gateway into see-through styles.

A sheer bra under a blazer? To die for. A peek of mesh under a crop top? Literally iconic.

Once reserved for the glamours of Hollywood, sheer fabrics and styles have found their way into our closets and top drawers, affirming their place as wardrobe essentials.

How to Embrace Underwear as Outerwear

Sheer garments might not be anything new for the likes of supermodels, but this trend's trickle down effect on street style is still budding. We've come a long way from the days of Jennifer Lopez's sheer, plunging gown breaking the internet at the 2000s Grammys.

Sheer styles seamlessly blend whimsy with sophistication, but this trend's staying power is in its wearability. Notably breathable, easy to layer, and fun to style, underwear as outerwear has gone from daring choice to dinner with the girls.

Of course, there will always be opportunities to go bold when it comes to hopping on the sheer bandwagon (we're looking at you, pantless trend). But if you're looking to sprinkle some sexy into your everyday, look no further than sheer bras.

With the launch of our Sexy Mesh Capsule collection, as seen on Knix Global Brand Ambassador Gabrielle Union, we're making sexy ultra-wearable. Designed with comfort in mind, the Mesh Deep V Bra and Mesh High Rise underwear have all the smooth, sheer makings of underwear as outerwear.

For so long, bras have been thought of as serving a hidden, functional purpose—but there's something quietly badass about wearing undergarments that are designed to be seen. Suddenly, exposed bra straps become something to be marvelled, and a cheeky bra-blazer combo becomes a go-to outfit. 

Though it may seem daunting, if this trend has proved anything, it's that sheer bras and underwear as outerwear can be adapted to a range of comfort levels and personal tastes.

For a dash of sexiness, consider a peek of mesh panties above the waist of your jeans (for period days, Light Leakproof No-Show Mesh High Rise underwear absorb the same as about 1.5 regular tampons).

Embrace your sexiest self with a sheer bra poking out from underneath a crop top or cardigan. And because every body deserves sexy, wireless support, our Mesh Bra is available in sizes XS-XXXXL (from A-to-G, including D cup) with plus cups available to those who prefer more coverage in the chest. 

If you're not quite in your sheer era but appreciate the aesthetic, opt for something like the Mesh Deep V Bodysuit, which features double mesh paneling in the cups for full coverage, but can still be effortlessly paired with high rise jeans and flowy skirts. Sheer doesn't necessarily mean provocative, but it sure brings a touch of elegance to more risqué looks.

A Sheer Confidence Boost

Sure, lingerie is a staple of romantic date nights—but we'd argue its earned its place among our everyday rotation. And for good reason: there's something about a sexy set that provides an instant confidence boost.

If your confidence could use a jolt and your top drawer could use a refresh, you've come to the right place. Say it with us: underwear can be fun. It can also be fun without losing out on support or function.

To strike a balance of comfort and style, infuse your underwear lineup with bold hues, mesh cutout panties, sheer bras, skin-bearing fabrics, and easy-to-wear bodysuits. You may even unexpectedly find that reinvigorating your underwear rotation breathes new life into your tried-and-true wardrobe staples.

Whether you choose to make your underwear the star of your outfit or prefer to rock a sheer bra under a turtleneck, a dash of sexy goes a long way. And what we love most about ethereal, see through styles and unlined cups are how they're designed to accentuate your natural shape.

Smooth and airy, our mesh bras offer lift and support (sans underwire) in a range of inclusive cup sizes that are designed for everyday wear. Sheer styles are also a go-to during summer heatwaves when we can't bear the thought of suffocating fabrics and tight clothes.

If we have to be sweaty, we might as well look cool.

Sheer Styles Are Making a Statement

This isn't the first time sheer fashion has wooed us with its translucent charm. From silent film stars of the 1930s to the nude runway looks of the 1960s, the resurgence of sheer has often coincided with feminist movements.

Once considered scandalous, sheer has become an emblem of bodily autonomy and sexual empowerment. With the increased politicization of women's bodies and the rollback of hard-won reproductive rights, it's no wonder many are choosing to challenge conventions through everyday sartorial choices.

For all its fondness of skin-bearing, sheer clothing is patently curated for the female gaze. Beneath its gauzy exterior, this trend has more substance than it lets on.

More than just a passing fashion trend, sheer fashion has the power to be subversive and push back against feminine norms in a fun, celebratory way.

Whether it's a matter of physical reclamation or a way to add intrigue to your outfit, sheer is here to stay.

So, to that we say: wear the sheer bra, put on the see through dress, and don that cute bralette—if you turn heads it means you're doing something right.

Whether you’re jet-setting somewhere warm for spring break or hanging out at home, waiting for things to thaw, it’s never too early to start eyeing which swimwear trends you want to rock this summer. It’s called daydreaming, look it up. 

From sleek, minimalist swimwear styles to maximalist bikini prints (and a lot in between), there’s truly something for everyone. And, in our humble opinion, the best swimwear is swimwear that works for a diversity of shapes, bust sizes, and styles. 

Ahead, you’ll find some of our favorite swimwear trends that combine comfort, style, and support. 

Making a Vintage Splash: High Waisted Bikinis

Low-rise jeans might be making a comeback, but swimwear trends remain firmly rooted in high waisted bikinis. Blending vintage feel with modern designs, high waisted bikinis are sticking around the pool this season. 

On this stylish journey back in time, we gave our best-selling swimwear style—the High Rise High Cut Swim Bottoms—a 90s inspired update with a higher cut leg, cheekier butt coverage, and sculpting elements that are sure to make a splash. 

For more 70s inspired bikini trends that add a touch of nostalgia to your beach look, opt for the Ultra High Rise Bikini Swim Bottom. The ruched side seams are flattering and feminine, it’s the perfect combo of comfort and coverage for summer at the beach. These bottoms are also a match made in heaven for our Sculpt Bandeau Bikini Top and its retro silhouette.

Swimming on Your Period

In our books, doing what feels best for your body on your period is always a swim trend. If that means making your period an afterthought when you’re hanging out by the beach or pool, then you’ll never look back after trying Period Swimwear. 

A timeless swimsuit style with a fit we’ve spent years perfecting, the Leakproof Classic One Piece Swimsuit absorbs up to 3 tampons worth of blood for backup protection from leaks. It’s a swim staple (also available in bikini form) with a built-in absorbent liner you can’t even tell is there (which means you can wear this swimsuit even when you aren’t on your period). 

Bikini Tops Take the Plunge

We love a little cleavage when it comes to bikinis, but only if it doesn’t come at the expense of bust support — which is why we created the Deep V Bikini Top. Our deepest plunge neckline with comfort and customization to boot, this bikini top is truly to dive for. Plus, this trend can work for a wide range of looks, from sporty to sultry. 

Looking for a bikini top with less cleavage, but that packs just as much style? You’ll love the Scoop Bikini Top with its trendy rounded neckline and adjustable fit. 

Athletic Aesthetics and Sporty Swimwear Trends

Whether you’re planning on hitting the surf in a sporty one-piece swimsuit or looking for athletic bikinis with protection from UPF rays, we're loving sporty swimwear trends. In combining supportive design features with dynamic visual elements, sporty swimwear is the epitome of style and functionality—all that's missing is a sleek ponytail.

With its versatile high neck style, sporty racerback, mesh cutouts, and built-in shelf bra for support, the High Energy Bikini Top gets our vote for “Most Likely to Be Worn by Sporty Spice.” Fit tip: Keep the zipper up for a sporty, more covered look or pull it down for a sexy lower neckline.

Bold Patterns and Prints That Pop

How boring would the beach be if it was just a smattering of neutral and beige swimwear? That’s why we’re glad to see 2024 swimwear trends are all about bold prints, embracing patterns and bright colors for a standout beach look. 

If making a swimsuit statement is your thing, then get ready to embrace everything from animal prints to geometric patterns and floral motifs. Over the past few years, these prints have offered a range of artistic expressions and are making a splash in the swimwear scene as wearable art.

Matchy Matchy: Coordinated Sets Take Over

A predictably major swimwear trend for 2024 are matching sets and classic solids, serving easy and effortless monochromatic beach looks. Sure, a matching bikini set will make you look like a vision in lush green, but have you considered elevating your look with matching accessories, like a cover up or sarong?

For a complete ensemble, the latest bikini trends are saying all you have to do is turn your two-piece into a three-piece with an additional accessory or cover up. These perfect pairings and cover ups also dazzle with color coordinated jewelry and complementing skirts. Somehow, swimsuits have never looked so good.

Asymmetrical Swimwear and Sexy Cut Outs

If beach trends in 2024 are telling us anything, it’s that asymmetry is in when it comes to swimsuits and bikinis. We’re talking cut-out swimwear, daring designs, and one shoulder swimsuits. One of our favorite swimsuits of the moment is the Leakproof Wrap One Piece—which can only be described as part bikini top, part one piece with its sexy cut-out and bikini-style wrap. 

Another swimsuit gem is the High Energy Bikini Top, which features mesh cut-outs and sporty design details that will turn heads this season. 

Sleek One Piece Swimsuits

Another chic swimsuit option to keep an eye out for is minimal swimwear with clean lines and neutral tones, though we’ve never known Classic One-Piece Swimsuits to go out of style. A timeless trend with a fit that’s been perfected over many years, sleek one pieces are a trend you’ll be donning for many years to come. 

The high quality, UPF 50+ swimwear fabric, adjustable straps, built-in shelf bras, and removable cups means this comfortable one piece swimsuit has a customizable fit that will feel fashionable every time you whip it out for the season. 

—

As we wrap up this deep dive into 2024 swimwear trends, it’s clear that this year’s styles cater to everybody. From retro revivals to sporty suits, bold prints, coordinated bikinis, asymmetrical styles, and stylish silhouettes there truly is something for everyone.

Ready to hit the beach this summer? Trends or no-trends, find a swimsuit that fits, and makes you feel confident and fashionable. So, get out there, make a splash, and rock these swim trends like the style icon you are!

Brimming with hand-picked goods from Black-owned small businesses (including some of our very own Knix Ambassadors), these boxes were gifted to some special folks within our community. 

Guided by the theme "Unapologetically Black," Ambassador Coordinator, Raven McKenzie Newman, says "I wanted to speak to the brand and our philosophy of encouraging women to live unapologetically free, and combine that with the recognition every Black woman deserves."

In her own words, "Unapologetically Black is the statement I wanted every woman to be reminded of, and hope this empowers each and every one of them to show up in this world confident in exactly who they are—melanin and all!"

But just because you weren't among the lucky few to receive this special gift box doesn't mean you can't shop the curated selection (and we're not ones to gate-keep). Ahead, you'll find all the community creations we can't get enough of. 

Frizz + Co

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Frizz + Co founder, Daphné Eastmond, always struggled with her hair—until she decided “made for all hair types” just wasn’t good enough. In developing her own product line for textured hair, she discovered how to embrace her natural curls. And with her foray into entrepreneurship came the advent of the ultimate hair repair mask, so everyone can have day-one hair every day. 

Curly Prints 

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Speaking of curly hair, this sister-duo is dedicated to celebrating and representing curls. That’s why their comfy, high-quality loungewear features bold and vibrant prints inspired by a diversity of curls. Whether your hair is wavy, frizzy, or full of ringlets, sisters Candicia and Camilla invite you to wear it proud and join the Curly Gang. 

Noire Girls Plant

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Noire Girls Plant founder, Jordianne Beckford, discovered her love of plants gave way to a form of healing and community. Once a plant mom, she now likens herself to a botanical concierge who helps others cultivate the restorative pleasures of growing plants. This uplifting brand provides helpful resources for those looking to nurture their mental health through nurturing the natural world—so that we may all blossom. 

Kerl Beauty 

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Kerl Beauty founder, Natasha Sheppard, was born to girl-boss. Even as a kid, her entrepreneurial resume included everything from selling clothes to starting a dog-walking service. Things took a curly-haired turn in university when she began the journey of embracing her natural tresses. Today, she’s a curly queen with a line of affordable hair care products aimed at helping others discover the power of making every day a good hair day. 

London Ivy 

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Simplicity is at the core of London Ivy’s natural and organic self-care assortment. Using nothing but the highest quality natural ingredients, founder Monique London is all about creating products that lead to clearer skin and hydrated curls. Handcrafted and cruelty-free, the brand’s lineup of hair and skin care products prove you don’t need a 12-step routine to feel your best.

UNBTHRD Fashion

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This gender neutral clothing brand is all about protecting your peace. UNBTHRD reflects its founder, Sol Williams, ethos of challenging social norms and rising above negativity. As inclusive as it is comfortable, the brand’s joggers and crewnecks are adorned with affirmations that make for everyday statement pieces. 

Slay the Mic

Public speaker, coach, and self-proclaimed mic-slayer Jam Gamble brings energy and connection to every room she steps into. She also shares her gift by helping others tap into the ultimate superpower: their voice. Her dynamic public speaking programs are geared towards transforming your communication skills and honing engaging storytelling. Whether you’re looking to slay-the-mic at your next work presentation or to captivate a keynote audience, Jam knows how to help foster your inner-speaker.

Wherever the wind blows you, breeze right into your warm weather getaway with a suitcase brimming with beachy wardrobe essentials. From period swimwear to effortless lounge, so long as you have your passport, we have the rest covered. Consider this your beach vacation packing list. 

Period Proof Swimwear 

How thoughtful of your period to show up on day two of your vacation. Packing period swimwear means not having to worry about steering clear of the pool. We’ve spent years perfecting the timeless style and fit of the Leakproof Classic One Piece Swimsuit, which looks and feels like a regular swimsuit (but with major benefits—like a built-in absorbent liner that absorbs 1-3 tsps of blood). 

Something to Save Your Thighs

Thick thighs save lives, but they’re also known to rub together when the temperature rises and the short-shorts come out. The only sting one should feel on vacation is that of rum-punch, which is why you’ll find multiple pairs of Thigh Savers in our suitcase. High ranking on our list of beach travel essentials, these seamless bottoms (which can be worn under anything) reduce chafing and sweat—or having to sit on anything gross. There’s also, of course, a period proof version—the Leakproof Thigh Saver—that will also take care of sweat and period leaks. 

Lightweight Sleepwear

The best kind of sleepwear, in our opinion, is the kind that doubles as loungewear or beach clothing (especially when there’s suitcase space to be accounted for). Made from luxuriously soft fabric, dreamy nights and days are made of the Modal Sleep Top and Bottom. Whether you’re in between high-thread-count hotel sheets or asleep in a lounger by the pool, you’ll be the comfiest. 

Sun Protection

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For obvious reasons (protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays), sunscreen is not to be overlooked as you make your break from the cold. Nothing faster ruins a beach vacation than a bad sunburn—including looking like a lobster in all your vacation pics. For streak-free protection for all skin types, our go-to is Black Girl Sunscreen. Hats and sunglasses are, of course, also high priority beach travel essentials.

Easy-to-Wear Swimsuits

We know a thing or two about what makes an effortless one piece swimsuit so essential. It’s easy to slip on, doubles as a top (that happens to match with everything), fits in all the right places, and holds the girls. It’s just a winning formula—and the one behind our Deep V One Piece Swimsuit. 

Beachy Cover Ups

Riddle us this: what matches your swimsuit, ties a swim look together, and doubles as a headband? It’s the ever-underrated sarong. Designed using the same material as our swimsuits, this lightweight beach cover up is as versatile as it is easy to style. 

Spa-Worthy Robe

Packing your robe might be a hard sell in terms of the square footage it will take up in your suitcase, but the experience of having access to a comfy, flowy robe while on vacation makes it worthwhile. Wrap yourself up after a salty ocean swim or use it as a cover-up on your next beach trip, either way you’ll be happy to have it on hand. 

A Solid Beach Bag

Once you arrive in paradise, you’ll still have the pack for a beach trip (we suggest making a beach trip packing list). It always feels weird to pack a bag into another bag, but versatility is the beauty of the beach tote—a beach bag that can also double as a carry-on. When in doubt, reach for a couple solid reusable bags that can be used to haul your beach gear—flip flops, beach towel, and sun hat—to the beach and back. Then all that left to do is find some beach chairs to lounge in and sink your toes into the hot sand.

Water Bottle

If you don’t go anywhere without your Stanley cup, then we don’t have to tell you twice to drink plenty of water. Beach resorts and pool bars are nice, but they can also be a detriment to staying hydrated. Having a reusable bottle on hand is a game-changer when it comes to keeping quenched on a beach getaway. It’s equally handy to have close by during travel—a beach vacation is for splurging on cabana cocktails, not airport water bottles. 

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Planning your next beach vacation? Shop more beach travel essentials, like our full Swim Collection and assortment of Everyday Wardrobe Heroes. 

In hetero relationships, the man typically faces a full interrogation. “Where did you propose? Where did you get the ring? TELL US EVERYTHING!” The woman, on the other hand, puts the shining diamond on full display. Oohs and aahs abound! 

It’s a ritual we’re so accustomed to that we expect the whole engagement story to be shared in newspapers or Instagram posts. And, for the most part, these narratives follow the same formula: man plans to ask, man buys a ring, man gets down on one knee and woman accepts or rejects. 

Naturally, when I saw the 2010 movie, Leap Year, for the first time, I giggled at the plot. 

It outlines the Celtic tradition of women flipping gender scripts and proposing to their partners on February 29, or “leap day.” What a novelty! But even today, as we continue to challenge archaic traditions and champion gender equity, the practice of proposing seems mostly oriented towards men.  

So, where does this leap day tradition come from? Why is getting down on one knee seen as a masculine responsibility? And how are people, especially within the 2SLGBTQ+ community, shifting the framework of engagements?

What Do Leap Years Have to Do With Women Proposing?

Depending on who you ask, the leap day tradition dates anywhere between 5th century Ireland and 13th century Scotland, though both timelines are debated by scholars. The tradition made its way to the US in the late 18th century and remained well into the 1900s, where the gender swap was made, not only in regards to marriage, but also on city councils, police, and fire stations. 

The common theme always leaned towards the act being seen as a joke; a way to poke fun at ‘impatient’ women and diminish a man’s, well, ‘manhood.’ In contrast, it’s believed that a man getting on bended knee came from medieval knights bowing and showing respect to noblewomen. 

For much of human history, marriage has been used as a contract to unite two families. As modern marriage has evolved into a partnership based (predominantly) on love, traditions like church weddings, giving away the bride, white dresses, and bouquet tosses have begun to fade into obscurity. 

Rosemary Hopcroft, professor emeritus of sociology at University of North Carolina tells Time that receiving a ring demonstrates that the man can provide for their offspring. "It's obviously not rational. There is no need for it. But we're not just rational actors. We're emotional,” Hopcroft says. 

And how can we not be, given that Hollywood has spoonfed the romantic proposal to us over and over again? Not only that, but we all know someone who starts their proposal story with, “I was tired of waiting, so I told him it was now or never!”

Women are damned if we do and damned if we don’t. On one hand, we fear being seen as pushy, aggressive and insistent. We fear what opinions people will have of our proposal story. We fear being rejected or unloved. 

On the other hand, we relinquish the power of determining the timeline of a future together. In this way, cultural norms can influence the level of agency we have in making (or waiting) for one of the most important decisions of our lives. 

Subverting Gender Norms

Women are earning their own living, deciding if having children is the right choice for them, moving in with partners and, yet, the social stigma surrounding women-led proposals has largely stuck around. 

Is it time to update this tradition or, at least, question it? Perhaps instead of gendered expectations, we can encourage couples to define how they want to approach deciding to tie the knot. 

One trend that’s on the rise is the double proposal, and it’s being pioneered by the 2SLGBTQ+ community, in particular. Same-sex, nonbinary, and queer partnerships are removing the assumption of a solo-proposal and are, instead, popping the question even after they’ve already said yes. 

Some find themselves going down on one knee only to have their partner do the same right across from them. Others, already engaged, are biding time to propose on their own terms. What a wonderful way to personalize your story, basing it upon your own feelings, memories, and moments within a relationship. No pressure to be perfect or to bear the sole burden of asking such a big question. 

Leap Year or Not, Do What You Want

Additionally, we’re seeing more women giving their partner gifts like engagement watches, jewelry or flowers as gestures of love and marriage. More people are waiting to get married and couples are choosing to live with one another before taking the next step. Being given more time and space to explore what each person wants in a marriage is leading to more direct and frank conversations. 

Some people just mutually decide when it’s right, whether that’s over dinner or lying next to each other in bed. Celebrities like Kristen Bell, Jennfier Hudson and (my personal idol) Judge Judith Sheindlin have taken matters into their own hands, leap day or not. 

So, yes! 2024 is a leap year and a great opportunity to pop the question. But so is literally any day EVER. Don’t limit yourself to waiting on someone else to ask for something that you know you want. 

If you’ve been dreaming of a surprise proposal since as long as you can remember, then that’s okay too! Instead of being orchestrated around an outdated tradition, everybody’s proposal story should be unique to their love.

A music blog recently described the band as putting on a "rambunctious show that is bursting with rebellious energy and features physical stunts," but you really have to come see us play to get the vibe. 

I'm buzzing. 

The first few shows of the tour are magical. The music sounds great. I’m having so much fun and learning non-stop. Every show is a different lesson in self-discovery, and I’m loving it. 

A few weeks in, my period starts. "Alright, let's go. I'm a big girl. I can do this."

I put in a tampon and don my Leakproof Thong, my last clean pair of undies. (I brought period underwear to sleep in, which I often do when I want to feel extra secure, ESPECIALLY when living on a tour bus with a bunch of other people.) 

As the only woman in the band, I take the responsibility for putting on a good show seriously. Representing, bringing my whole self, and expressing myself as I am is what I'm about. 

Diversity on stage is not just about representation; it's about bringing a multitude of perspectives and voices to the art. It's a powerful statement about the world we envision: expressive, inclusive, and vital. 

Before shows, I always do a little twerkout to get my body ready. I spend a good amount of time picking my afro; and of course, play through some songs and scales on bass to warm up.

It's 8 PM. Stage call. Here comes the adrenaline rush!

I hike up my period underwear and grab my bass. The walk-on music rumbles the stage, and we start playing. 

Maybe it's homesickness, missing New York City and all, but since the start of the tour, I've taken up pulling up my thong à la Ice Spice. "She a baddie, she showin her panty." You know? And tonight's show is no exception. I feel like a superhero. 

And then, about a minute into the first song, I feel the tampon coming loose. 

The situation becomes increasingly precarious with every jump, headbang, and bass riff. (Did I mention our stage clothes are all white?) 

I don't want to be thinking about my period right now. I just want to perform. 

One of my favorite things about music and being on stage, especially with this band, is there is so much improvisation. We keep the momentum, no matter what distractions or unexpected things happen. 

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So, I'm giving my all to connect with the crowd and the music—and in the back of my mind wondering, "What do I do?"

I am on the verge of a messy mishap. 

But then, I remember my Knix, and shout toward the crew off to the side of the stage, "Grab the trash can!"

The song ends and I run off stage and yank out the tampon (which, by this point, is hardly hanging on by a prayer). And then run back on stage and keep playing.

The crew has no clue what almost happened. 

Walking off stage, my body and soul feel incredible. 

What could have been a messy, frustrating moment is a quirky and empowering story I can now share with you. It feels good to laugh at myself. Being humbled helps me grow. 

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Suffice it to say, for the next five days of my cycle, the rest of the tour, and every other time I've been on my period during a performance since, I exclusively wear period underwear. (Which have the added benefit of looking great under clothes and super cute with my outfits.) 

I love how I can be confident as a performer in a way that feels authentic to me. 

This performance showed me a piece of what makes me special as a musician and person: my ability to adapt and thrive in the face of unexpected challenges. 

The things unique to me, like what I wear and my experience in my body, add to my story as a musician and creative. It makes me interesting. 

Because, to me, being true to yourself is the highest art form. 

We went to a party that boasted a live band and lots of dancing, but arrived to sparsely populated tables of people quietly sipping cocktails. Naturally, this hardly deterred us from tearing up the dance floor on our own. 

We ended the night at home, forgetting a plate of broiling nachos in the oven, and picking at anything that wasn’t soot. I look back now, thinking if this had been any regular night, it would have been fantastic. 

At the time, however, I felt that the “perfect” New Years Eve celebration was a wash. And why? Because New Year's Eve never goes as planned. How can it? North Americans have always looked at the holiday with rose-tinted glasses. 

Ever since that fateful NYE, I’ve changed my view on the celebration and pivoted to honoring it in a way that works for me. It involves getting rid of the stress, anxiety, and pressure surrounding the last (and first) day of the year—and learning to find joy in keeping things low-key. This is what I've learned. 

Ditch the Kiss

In a post-pandemic world, it’s bizarre that this tradition (most likely originating from Germany) still exists. Imbuing an intimate act with your hopes and dreams for the coming year seems a bit naive. How many NYE kisses have you shared with partners who are no longer around? 

Look, I get it. I grew up watching When Harry Met Sally and thinking how romantic it would be to kiss the love of my life in the first moments of a new year. As an independent 30-something, there’s nothing more isolating or stressful than sitting in a room full of couples making out to Auld Lang Syne like it's the be all and end all of romance. Let’s bring NYE back to personal accomplishments and future desires; not who we already smooch 364 days of the year. 

Stay In

The idea of wearing heels during the coldest time of the year and partying until after midnight with a room full of strangers makes me want to scream. Also, have you seen Uber costs on NYE? No thank you! 

Instead, why not invite your favorite people over for a night in? Potlucks, board games, movie marathons, OH MY! Having a budget-friendly slumber party with the friends who have been with you through the highs and lows of the year can be so cathartic and comforting. 

The best part? You can tailor the night for yourselves. Want to bake 400 cookies and eat them all in one sitting? FIRE UP THE OVEN! Want to sing karaoke until your voice gives out? Whitney is on standby! Want to watch every Lord of the Rings movie back to back? “This day we fight!” You do you this NYE.

Resist the Resolution

The dreaded resolution: an antiquated concept and (yet) another reason to add stress to our plate for a new year. While ancient Babylonians made resolutions to their kings and gods, we North Americans have used them to swear to be better versions of ourselves going forward. Unfortunately, these changes usually relate to our weight, diet, and love lives. 

I propose we all take a moment at the stroke of midnight to look back at the accomplishments we’ve made over the last year. I don’t want to tell myself to “do better” anymore. I want to start telling myself, “you did the best you could.” Life is hard. You made another rotation around the sun. Let’s all give ourselves a pat on the back. 

Reflect and Look Forward

A friend of mine suggested journaling on NYE to see what came out. I took my time, reading through previous passages and taking stock of everything I did that year. “Holy Cow!” I thought to myself, “I’m kind of amazing!”  

Where I reflect through writing, you may do so in music or photos or conversations. What art did you create? What relationships did you cultivate? What work achievements are you proud of? How did your kid do on that test you helped them study for? What Netflix shows did you watch?

Those little things are never on your resolution list, but they certainly add up. Instead of big resolutions, let’s get excited about the little things we can achieve in the new year. 

Get that book that’s been on your list. Set a date to visit your grandparents. Buy that crochet kit you’ve had your eyes on. Our lives are the sum of small moments. Why not enjoy them?

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Ultimately, you know yourself best—and that applies to New Year’s Eve plans and aspirations for the year ahead. But, if we can offer one piece of advice: take the pressure off, and get in touch with what will best serve you this NYE (and beyond). 

Personally, I want that childhood joy of staying up late with the family, eating snacks, and blowing horns to return to NYE celebrations. Going into 2024, I'd also like to be kinder to myself. And that starts with cutting down on the made-up pressures of this holiday and cuttin’ loose! 

Against the backdrop of the so-called ‘male norm', our hormonal cycles and complex bodily processes have been regarded as a nuisance, an obstruction to clean, simple scientific conclusions—the kind that earns white men in lab coats prestigious awards and accolades. 

The upshot is that we live in a world where shockingly little is known about the physiology of roughly half the human population, as everything from seatbelts to everyday medications often remain exclusively tested on male bodies. 

When researcher and author Cat Bohannon began writing her debut book Eve: How the Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Human Evolution, her aim was to place women at the center of evolution. In tracing the narratives ingrained in our very bodies, the exercise, in effect, involved rewriting the history of humanity—this time, through the female gaze.

In speculating the mysteries of menopause or contemplating breasts as sophisticated channels of communication, she fills significant gaps and asks the long overlooked question: what’s different about the female body—and why should we care? 

In its pages, Cat takes readers through deep time, weaving together various disciplines—from archeology to paleontology and evolutionary biology—so that we might place ourselves in the dim caves and lush forests of distant ancestors as new evolutionary features come into expression. 

Here, Cat introduces us to our predecessors—a cast of ancestral ‘Eves’—who defied the odds of survival, and whose evolutionary fingerprints linger in the contemporary marvels of the female body. 

Hot off the heels of the book’s release (it’s already a New York Times bestseller), we had the joy of rehashing a few of the incredible things we learned while reading Eve with the author herself. 

Women Are More Than Baby-Making Machines, Obviously

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In the decade of research that went into writing her book, it’s no surprise Cat came up against some big evolutionary myths. Even less surprising is that, chief among them, is the “the idea that everything in a female body is geared towards reproduction,” says Cat. 

Science, unfortunately, isn’t immune to the gendered social scripts that insinuate women as biologically destined to be mothers. Though evolution is, quite literally, about reproduction, Cat pushes back against notions of biological determinism. “There are many diverse roles in various species’ social environments that have to do [with] more than just baby-making,” she says.

In fact, Cat posits that, overall, humans are actually pretty terrible at making babies. “There’s [the] important concept of maternal fetal conflict: that the fetus long evolves to get as many resources as it can, and the mother’s body long evolves to not simply reproduce itself, but to survive,” explains Cat. 

It’s a once controversial concept that defies cultural ideals. “It just goes against that story we tell about what females are for and, frankly, what women are for, and that we’re supposed to just really love this whole baby-making thing,” says Cat. 

Far from warm and hospitable, Cat encourages us to think of the uterus as a battle ground—“an environment in which a conflict is taking place between the mother’s body and the offspring.” While female bodies might not be built to engender pregnancy, they are, amazingly, built to endure it. 

Really, it just confirms what we already know: pregnant folks are basically endurance athletes. 

Your Junk in the Trunk Is Serving an Evolutionary Function

While we’re on the subject of surviving child-bearing, let’s all take a moment to bid thanks to the extra pounds that tend to cluster on our hips, thighs, and derrières. Incredibly, these pockets of fat are actually an interactive organ made of connective tissue. 

“There’s a kind of three-way hotline between most women’s reproductive organs, her body fat, and the pituitary gland at the base of her brain, constantly regulating the shifting balance of her sex hormones,” reads a passage in Eve. 

Even more fascinating: these plumper areas play a vital role in providing nutrients to the fetus during pregnancy—like a stockpile of nutrients that can be tapped into in the name of survival. 

Thinking of your fat as an organ system strips away at “sexist stories we tell ourselves about our bodies” in a way that’s kind of liberating, says Cat. That said, she’s still quick to stipulate that though “the fat part of our butts may well have evolved to help make babies, that does not mean it’s our destiny.” 

Next time you’re struggling to button your jeans, just remember: this important fatty tissue also plays a role in regulating your metabolism and central nervous system. 

Boobs Are Even More Incredible Than We Thought

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Boobs are wonderful. They grow, shrink, and change shape—often just in the span of a single hormonal cycle. They lactate during child-rearing and keep babies alive and thriving. They also happen to look great in a plunging neckline—what more can we say?

If that weren’t enough, feel free to confidently add “communication pathway” to your breasts’ already lofty resume. “We think communication is all about our faces and vocalizations,” says Cat, “but there are biochemical pathways that are communicative between this baby latching to your chest and your own immune system.” 

What Cat’s referring to is the transmission of information that occurs when a baby’s saliva—packed with data on nutrient levels and antibodies—is absorbed by the mother’s body during breastfeeding. In a process that Cat describes as both “creepy and awesome,” the baby’s spit is up-sucked into the breast, changing the content of the milk. 

In other words, breast milk isn’t just made by mothers for babies, rather it’s a co-produced biological product. But, again, that doesn’t mean breastfeeding is for everyone. “I had a very intimate relationship with my breast pump,” says Cat. “It took a while for the spit to be making its way.”

Aging Is a Human Success Story—but Our Ovaries Might Still Be Catching Up

Remember that hotline between your reproductive organs, body fat, and pituitary gland that regulates sex hormones? It seemingly knows no bounds—“there’s no part of the human body that sex hormones don’t touch,” writes Cat in Eve. “That’s why a woman can experience all of these seemingly disconnected symptoms during menopause.”

The list of perimenopause symptoms is at 34—and ever-growing, but “it’s not an endless penance for having once been fertile, but a transition,” stresses Cat. As your body unlearns a pattern it’s been trained to respond to since puberty, perimenopause and menopause is a process of relearning. 

The fact that we continue to live, on average, a third of our lives after our ovaries have turned out the lights is, however, nothing short of an evolutionary feat. “So, in other words, menopause is a longevity story more than it is about that you’ve stopped making babies,” according to Cat. 

“It may be the case that in deep time, our ancestors—our Eves—mutated towards having a longer lifespan in both males and females,” she says. “In other words, we mutated to have elderly, but the ovaries may not have gotten the message.” 

Turns out, there are also evolutionary benefits to having communities made up of middle-aged and elderly folks—which is precisely why our ancestors may have selected for longevity. “Their contribution to the community is probably very much a part of our success story as humanity, and part of how our bodies evolved,” says Cat. 

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For Eve’s author, the biology of sex difference is, ultimately, an exercise in better understanding the human body as a whole—including those who exist outside of the binary. Diversity is an evolutionary gift, not a bug. And better understanding the female body means better understanding all bodies. 

“We are all individually the best authority on what it’s like to live in our bodies,” says Cat. “I hope that Eve helps give us new ways of describing our authentic experiences in our bodies—and understanding how wide the diversity of humanity is and always has been.”

Welcome to the amazing world of New Year's Eve traditions—where anything you eat, say, do and even wear has the power to influence your luck in the opportunity-filled year ahead. 

Among the true myriad of superstitions surrounding the last evening of the year, there’s one ritual that really stands out to us as people who believe in the power of underwear.

While the exact origins of this tradition are a little murky, many in Latin American countries (and now beyond) believe that wearing brand new, specifically-colored underwear on New Year’s Eve can help ring in a particular energy for the upcoming year. 

Throughout history, symbolic meanings associated with color have been used in all sorts of manifestation practices—from burning candles to choosing a nail polish shade—so we’re totally on board with undressing this magical custom all the way down to our NYE undies. 

Ready to manifest in 2024? Whether you’re after riches or true love, choose your underwear color wisely. But, mostly, have fun with it—and let us know if it pays off. For real. 

Red

Ooooo la la! Associated with love, passion, and vitality, red is believed to invite a year filled with romance and excitement. Tune into this fiery energy in 2024 with a pair of Leakproof French Cut undies in Velvet Red. It doesn’t hurt that you’ll feel irresistible come midnight—all while channeling good vibes for the year ahead. 

Gold 

Representing prosperity and wealth, gold-colored underwear is worn to attract financial success and abundance in the coming year. Are you counting on a well-deserved raise or promotion in 2024? Slide into a pair of Lace Bikini underwear in Golden Glow. Don’t mind me—just grabbing a pair of these for myself…

Blue

Symbolizing tranquility, wisdom, and stability, blue underwear is believed to bring about calmness and clarity in the new year. If you’re embarking on a spiritual journey or hoping for a peaceful, clear-minded year ahead, it’s Essential Bikini undies in Bouquet Blue you should be wearing when the countdown starts. 

Pink

Friendship is the best ship, and pink knows this. Reflecting affection and kindness, pink underwear is worn to foster love, friendships, and a harmonious atmosphere in the coming year. Whether you’re looking to mend a friendship or have a budding one flourish, Lace Essential Boyshorts in Pomegranate have got your back (and butt). 

White

Representing purity and new beginnings, white underwear signifies a clean slate and fresh starts for the upcoming year. If 2023 wasn’t your year, find solace in knowing the year ahead is a blank page for you to fill with your heart’s desires—especially if you’re donning a pair of Shadow Mesh Leakproof Bikini underwear in Orchid.

Green

Linked to nature, growth, and harmony, green underwear symbolizes luck, health, and balance for the upcoming year. Whether your aspirations are to reconnect with nature, spend more time outdoors, or find work-life balance, the secret might just be in the gemstone hue of our Leakproof Bikini underwear in Jade. 

Purple

Often associated with creativity, mystery, and magic, purple underwear is believed to inspire imagination and unlock creative potential in the new year. One day you’re wearing a Lace Leakproof Boyshort in Periwinkle, and the next you’re living out the most creatively fulfilling year of your life. Sounds pretty magical to us. 

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As the clock ticks closer to midnight, dance your heart away in your new underwear… and embrace the magic of the moment. Who knows? Maybe those lucky undies will add an extra sparkle to your year ahead. Cheers to a colorful 2024! 

As part of that trust we are committed to doing everything we can to ensure that we do not intentionally use toxic or harmful chemicals in our products and to be open and honest about what, exactly, that promise means. We began routine testing for certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in our leakproof fabrics and leakproof products back in January 2020 when questions began to arise in the global community regarding a potential link between the period underwear category and PFAS given the water repellent nature of certain products in that category. Shortly thereafter we began testing for organic fluorine (the “F” in PFAS).

We have been sharing examples of our test results with the Knix community since January 2020 and will continue to do so. To skip to see sample results please scroll down to the bottom of the blog post. These results are from leading testing labs, and what you will find when reviewing them is that neither PFAS nor organic fluorine was detected at the testing limits. We will continue to routinely update our blog so you can see the results from our most recent testing, which is part of our quality procedure. The most recent test results shared are from December 2023 and the testing limits used were 0.01 - 1 parts per million (ppm) which can also be stated as 10-1000 parts per billion (ppb) for the PFAS testing and 20 ppm for organic fluorine testing. 

Doing the real work to ensure that our products are safe, and that our consumers understand the science, is no small feat. We will continue to monitor the complex  and ever-changing world of PFAS – a vast number of chemicals that the government, researchers, and companies are still struggling to fully define and understand.

These complexities are part of the reason that we have publicly advocated for increased PFAS regulation and education. The bottom line is that the best we can do at Knix is to source quality materials and test them along with finished leakproof garments to help ensure PFAS are not intentionally used in their manufacture. Knix, or any company for that matter, cannot promise that a product will make it to customers PFAS free because of the omnipresence of PFAS in the environment (they can be found in water, air, soil and even breast milk) and the supply chain, which creates the potential for trace levels of PFAS or PFAS-like chemicals to inadvertently find their way into products.

Let’s begin by sharing a high level overview of our sourcing and testing protocols for our leakproof products:

1. It starts with efforts to source quality fabrics, many of which are evaluated by an independent third party for certain regulated and non-regulated substances. We also conduct our own testing of the fabrics both for specific PFAS and for organic fluorine. Only fabrics that meet our strict standards are used.
2. We contractually prohibit our third-party textile and manufacturing suppliers from intentionally using PFAS, which are on our restricted substance list. 
3. We also require our suppliers to guarantee that the products and materials they supply to us do not contain added PFAS, and require them to conduct their own quality control testing for PFAS and fluorine. 
4. We test our products regularly for the most commonly analyzed PFAS.
5. We conduct regular organic fluorine testing. We routinely test samples of finished products. Our core fabrics are also tested on an annual basis.
6. We share sample results from our routine spot testing for finished products here on this blog. To see sample results please scroll down.

What are PFAS?

Although the exact definition varies throughout the globe, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) is a term commonly used to refer to a large number of synthetic chemicals that have carbon and fluorine bonds. PFAS are used in wide array of commercial and industrial products, and they have historically been used in the textile and apparel industry as a stain or water repellent. The two most commonly discussed PFAS are PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate), but according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are over twelve thousand different PFAS out there. Research is still ongoing to identify, test and understand the potential human and environmental health impacts of these substances.

While it is not currently feasible to test for all 12,000 PFAS directly, we do know that all PFAS contain organic fluorine (this is the “F” in PFAS). Organic fluorine is typically synthetic and is one known PFAS marker.  It is not to be confused with inorganic fluoride, which is found naturally in many minerals and other materials (including toothpaste and drinking water) and does not indicate the presence of PFAS. What does this mean? Testing for organic fluorine is the most efficient way to screen products to determine whether they may contain any of the thousands of different PFAS. 

We Do Not Add PFAS

At Knix we do not intentionally use PFAS in the manufacturing of our leakproof products. However, PFAS are now so widely dispersed in the environment that even the water we drink has low levels of contamination that, unfortunately, cannot be avoided. These fluorinated compounds are also unavoidably present in supply chain processes, such as in the cleaning solutions and water used on manufacturing equipment.

Knix can and does control the safety and the quality of the materials we use. For example, Knix takes steps to ensure that all of its third-party textile suppliers do not intentionally use PFAS in the fabrics they supply to us. First, we prohibit all of our materials suppliers for our leakproof products from using PFAS in the manufacture of Knix products, and require them to guarantee that the products and materials they supply to us do not contain added PFAS. Second, we require our suppliers to conduct their own quality control testing for PFAS and fluorine. Third, we test the fabrics we order for the presence of organic fluorine – the defining element of PFAS. Any fabrics that do not meet our standards will not be used by Knix and will not make their way into your hands or onto your bodies.

Knix can also control the frequency, accuracy, and transparency of its PFAS testing. In addition to organic fluorine testing, Knix also regularly tests its products for the most common PFAS. Read more about our testing – and how it has evolved over the years – below.

Knix's PFAS & Organic Fluorine Testing

PFAS Testing

Before January 2020 PFAS was not generally a topic connected to our product category and as a result we had never tested our products for PFAS or made any public claims related to PFAS. Our leakproof technology was manufactured in Italy and subject to relevant legislation regulating PFAS substance restrictions applicable in the European Union, which have been quite progressive when compared to those in the US and Canada.  

However, in early 2020, as Knix and others in our industry became more cognizant of PFAS, we and pursued extra third-party testing for peace of mind. This testing, an industry standard, is capable of identifying  20-30 main PFAS (like PFOA), which our Leakproof Underwear were cleared for. You can read a recent “non-detect” (meaning the particular PFAS were not detected) PFAS test report at the bottom of this page.

Fast forward to today, Knix partners with an industry-leading lab and experts that guide our PFAS testing, including testing for a wider array of PFAS.

Organic Fluorine Testing

In January 2020, we also began testing the fabrics used in our Leakproof Underwear products for fluorine (in addition to the direct PFAS testing described above), after learning that all PFAS contain organic fluorine. Since then we have made testing for fluorine part of our testing process and will continue to do so going forward. You can check out what a non-detect fluorine report looks like at the bottom of this post in a sample 2022 report for leakproof, super leakproof and cotton super leakproof.  

We mentioned earlier the important difference between organic fluorine and inorganic fluoride. Several of our products are made with materials that can be expected to naturally contain inorganic fluoride (which is not found in PFAS). We learned that using a material we know is safe – seaweed! – could potentially skew total fluorine test results (i.e., testing for all fluorine, regardless of whether it is organic or inorganic) without actually indicating that our products contain PFAS. When reading about fluorine testing as connected to PFAS it’s important to ensure the testing is for organic fluorine, rather than total fluorine or inorganic fluoride.

Fast forward to today, Knix partners with an industry-leading lab and experts that guide our testing for organic fluorine. 

What's Next

Having launched in 2013, we pride ourselves on being pioneers within the period underwear and leakproof underwear industry and as such we are leading by example— by calling for more transparency and stricter regulations in this growing category. Our work is ongoing, but we want to include you in our journey to address this PFAS issue in meaningful and informative ways.

Thank you for trusting us to make your intimates. If you have any other questions about product safety, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at info@knix.com. 

Test Results

To make gifting a lot easier this holiday season, we looked to the stars to discover the best Knix gift for every zodiac sign on your list. Yes, even your lovable perfectionist Virgo friend. For cosmic gift ideas, read on. 

Aries ♈ — March 21-April 19

Kicking things off with Aries, this intense and (lovingly) chaotic fiery sign always runs a little hot—in more ways than one. This makes the aptly named Fireside T-shirt and Flannel Short Pajama Set a surefire win for the beloved Ram on your list. Plus, red is totally their color.

Taurus ♉ — April 20-May 20 

No one loves to be pampered more than a Taurus. This sensual sign adores the finer things in life, so they’ll definitely love unwrapping the super soft Lace Longline Bra (especially if it’s the Gilded Gold edition). A gift that’s both regal and extremely comfy? It’s a Taurean dream. 

Gemini ♊ — May 21-June 20

Geminis are social butterflies that can adapt to fit in anywhere with anyone. They know how to work any room they waltz into—so get them a gift that’ll keep up with them. The Revolution V-Neck Bra is THE bra for any occasion, which makes it the perfect match for the adaptable Gemini. 

Cancer ♋ — June 21-July 22

The nurturers of the zodiac, it’s time to turn the tables and take care of the Cancer in your life. The ever giftable Knix Starter Kit is a great way to say, “I’m here for you too, my little crab.” These packs come complete with three glorious pairs of undies: classic Leakproof, Super Leakproof, and a Dream Short for night time—and are available in a Boyshort and Bikini set. 

Leo ♌ — July 23-August 22

Ah Leos—the bright stars at the center of our universe! For the confident and bold lions in your circle, give the Hold Me Nightie and Lace Trim Robe Set. This ultra soft (and ultra sexy) pair will have them living their old-school Hollywood starlet fantasy—a role they’ve always been destined to play. 

Virgo ♍ — August 23-September 22

Trust us, your always-put-together Virgo pal will be delighted to do their flawlessly curated 19 step night-time routine in their new Modal Sleep Set in Jade. This matching PJ set was practically made for the elegant and aesthetic Virgo on your shopping list. 

Libra ♎ — September 23-October 22

Ruled by Venus, it’s no surprise that Libras LOVE love. Connection is key! So no matter if they’re a friend, family member or lover, Libras will appreciate a present that’s for them and for you—like the Matchy Matchy Couples Set. Talk about a well balanced gift.

Scorpio ♏ — October 23-November 21

The Golden Glow Lace Leakproof Kit is the ideal naughty gift for the nice Scorpio on your holiday shopping list this year. A deeply mysterious sign, they’ll love that this set of three sexy, lacy, french cut undies hold the ultimate secret—they’re Leakproof too. 

Sagittarius ♐ — November 22-December 21

Nothing can stop the adventure-seeking Sag! Prep them for a new year of exploring with the Revolution Adjustable Pullover Bra. This easy-wearing bra has a customizable fit, making it beyond comfy for extra-long plane rides, unexpected treks, and wanderlust-filled journeys.

Capricorn ♑ — December 22-January 19

Caps work hard, so their gift should too. This 3-Pack Gift Box of Leakproof High Rise Underwear is not only cute, but super practical—which will win you points in your Cap’s book. These period- and leak-protecting undies are a well deserved present for our favorite tenacious sea-goats. 

Aquarius ♒ — Jan 20-Feb 18

Aquarians march to the beat of their own drum, which can sometimes make this a difficult sign to shop for. But it’s really quite simple! They love anything that lets them do things on their own terms. Like a Knix Gift Card! It’s a gift that says “Here, do whatever you want!”, which—at the end of the day—is always at the top of every Aqua’s wish list. 

Pisces ♓ — Feb 19-March 20

They’re the dreamiest sign in the galaxy, so tuck your Pisces in with the Fireside Flannel Nightshirt. It’s so comfy we bet they’ll make this super soft nightshirt into a dayshirt too. 24/7 coziness... the perfect gift for a Pisces! 

For more gift ideas, check out the rest of our Holiday Gift Shop. 

Women who followed their original instructions and passed down the teachings of our creations story. Women who bled and birthed deep in the woods, by firelight or moonlight, and always surrounded by midwives—or as we would say: mashkikiiwikwe (Medicine Woman). 

The teachings of birth are highly revered within my community. They come to us, as women, when we get our first period or “moon time.”

When I was a young woman this time was very special for me. I was 13 years old when my grandmother (my first period) visited me for the first time. It was February 17, 2000.

I remember this date because it is my niece's birthday, and my mother announced the occasion to the entire restaurant that evening at her party. I remember how hot my cheeks got when I was singled out for having bled for the first time. 

This feeling would visit me often as I grew through my teenage years. See, in my house, periods were never something to be ashamed of, to hide or shy away from. Especially if you knew your teachings.

The berry fast gives you the teachings of life, of life bearing and creation. It speaks of sacrifice and responsibility and the care that must be taken to protect life and our sacred vessels as women.

I did not eat berries for one year. Harvesting the berries each season, but not eating them was a lesson in community—to think beyond yourself and see your role amongst others.

At the end of that year, I served the berries I had harvested and offered gifts I had made to my community and, in turn, they welcomed me as a new woman. My roles and responsibilities changed and the teaching I was offered transformed me.

I felt the weight of my ancestors on my shoulders and the strength of them in the earth under my feet as I walked through my teenage years.

The pressure of being a woman in this world is mighty. I felt that pressure. I had to learn to love my body and keep my spirit safe. I always felt like I was walking in two worlds. 

I felt like a target and never felt safe outside my community, especially amongst men. So the teachings of life helped to protect me as I navigated the clash between western, colonial views of women's rights and responsibilities, which are mostly to serve men and create a family.

I rebelled against the ways women were lifted up in colonial society, mostly because it caused me so much pain and my body too much harm as I grew into womanhood. 

To be more blunt, being seen as an object—just a body to be desired—was alarming and earth shattering for me. Especially in times when women were increasingly standing for self determination and equal rights.

My mother, a feminist, fought hard for me to walk proud and carry myself in a positive way. So, when I say my roles and responsibilities changed, I’m talking about the responsibility to carry life, to care for life—my own life at the center as a priority.

In my lodge, I became a buffalo dancer and that asked me to take on the responsibility of caring for others; to use my gifts to heal and care for community.

As a woman, I hold the responsibility of carrying on the ways of my ancestors. It is a choice to follow in their footsteps.

Honoring my moon time, that sacred time every month to sit with my grandmother, to be slow and considerate of my body is following in those footsteps.

It is a time in my house when I am left to rest. It is a monthly reminder for self care and caring for one's own spirit vessel (body). Each month, when my moon time comes, I honor her visit. 

This evolved as I became a mother. As you try to carry life, you come to watch your periods. Then, you  pray for your grandmother to allow new life to come to you. 

For nine months, she doesn’t visit you as you carry and care for life. For me, it was over three years that my grandmother didn’t come to visit (I didn’t get my period) while I carried and cared for life. 

I got so busy and so distracted, I didn’t realize how much I missed her—and her teachings of kindness and strength. Her teachings brought me the ability to carry life and prepared me for each step of the way. The years of blood shaped me.

My big sister Selena is doing her berry fast again, this time with her young daughter who just started her berry fast. Selena is in the change of life now (perimenopause). 

She’s in the opposite moment of her daughter’s burgeoning reproductive life. Her grandmother visited her for many years, gifted her with two beautiful children, and now will leave her to transform into a grandmother herself.

This change of life is happening to all my big sisters right now. It’s a beautiful moment for me as a new mom. To bask in the teachings of life and all the ways they manifest to hold us.

I have always looked to my big sisters to prepare for what is to come. I also hold the memories of what it was like to become a young woman as my own mother went into menopause. 

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A post shared by Sarain Fox (@sarainfox)

I remember so clearly her discomfort, and the physical manifestations of transformation. She didn’t get to have a ceremony, like the berry fast to welcome the next stage of life. 

Her role in community, however, shifted. She is an elder, healer, and knowledge keeper for the people. She has spent her life picking up teachings that were stolen; rekindling the fire of creation amongst the people.

She brought three women up in this world and raised a young nation of proud Anishinaabekwes.

She allowed our blood memory to flow, hold its reverence, and lift us up into the power and protection every woman deserves. These are the teachings of women, of nationhood, of creation.

We bleed. We carry and care for life. This is the work of grandmothers of many generations. Since the very beginning of life itself.

Though it’s been shrouded by ageist remarks, sexist headlines, and quiet whispers, perimenopause is as routine as puberty or your monthly period. But what happens when that familiar period stops? Or becomes irregular?

Starting as early as your 30s, those in perimenopause can experience up to a whopping 34 different physical and mental health-related symptoms—including hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, and muscle aches. 

Lack of knowledge and awareness are barriers to women speaking openly about their experiences. Left to internalize pain and discomfort, we often suffer in silence. 

In reality, there are tons of effective tools, coping mechanisms, and treatments available. If only we could recognize the signs and say them out loud. 

Well, we’re talking about perimenopause out loud. Shouting it out loud, actually.

The Invisible Period is a campaign film created by Knix to shine light on a period of people’s lives that receives so little attention that 90% feel unprepared for the perimenopause journey. 

Directed by longtime Knix collaborator, Soleil Denault, the film is a portrait of life's natural patterns. It explores the routine periods that make up the rhythms of our lives, and the big, life-altering periods (or missed periods) that make up many of life's losses and milestones. 

We live with these periods for decades until, one day, The Invisible Period catches us off guard. 

Featuring Knix founder, Joanna Griffiths, content creator and activist, Sarain Fox, as well as members of the Knix community, the project aims to change the narrative around perimenopause. 

In school, we learn about puberty, periods, and pregnancy but perimenopause remains obscured. This even though, according to the National Institute on Aging, more than one million US-women experience menopause each year. 

Far from uniform, perimenopause affects everyone differently, and at different stages of life.

Notorious for its pesky symptoms—everything from anxiety to brain fog—many women enter this often decade-spanning phase without even knowing. 

When those symptoms don't receive the support they deserve, people are often left feeling alone; women leave the workforce in droves, thinking something is wrong with them, or muscle-through discomfort when they don't have to. 

This simply reinforces false notions that menopausal women are in decline, that their social value has somehow depreciated. 

This couldn't be further from the truth: perimenopause is a new chapter, a transition full of changes that can be empowering with access to the right support and resources. 

It's not just a talking point for women, either. Everyone—including men—are invited to help change the narrative, participate in discourse, and offer support to the perimenopausal folks in their life. 

We’re shedding the shame, cultural taboos, and misconceptions surrounding menopause and helping give it the rebrand it so desperately needs. Because from your first period to your last, we've got you covered. 

Though, we can all admit, some people on the holiday gift list are simply more fun to find gifts for than others. 

Dads? Beyond beard kits and whiskey, buying for dads is a nearly impossible task. Best friends on the other hand? We’ve had their holiday gifts picked out since July. 

A good bestie knows your favorite places to window shop; they know you keep a secret wish list on your notes app and have taken mental snapshots of all the stuff you want but would never splurge on for yourself. 

And for all the cheer up sessions they’ve spearheaded, messy rants they’ve listened to, and pet-sitting they’ve done, we think besties deserve the best, which is why you’ll find nothing but super soft fabrics and the coziest of threads in this bestie-centric holiday gift-list. 

For the Best Friend Who Still Has Their Bras From College

Bras are generally a necessity and, yet, years (and years) can slip by before we even consider replacing our favorite ones. They become like a well-worn cardigan that brings comfort—even if the straps are a little loose now. 

If your best friend is stuck in the halcyon days of bras (AKA underwires), then the gift of wireless support is in order. Made using buttery-soft fabric and 3D fabric technology, the V-Neck Revolution Bra is one of our biggest bra innovations to date.  

For the Best Friend Who Appreciates the Small Things

Is your best friend the type to stop and smell the roses? For those who relish the small things in life, there’s no greater small pleasure than quality knickers—life’s too short for scratchy cotton. 

It’s the perfect gift for the friend you’ve been trying to convert to Leakproof Period Underwear. Have we mentioned all your favorite styles come in a 3-pair Leakproof Period Underwear gift pack? 

For the Best Friend Who’s a Low-Key Social Influencer

The holiday social media post is the new holiday mail-card—and if every year your bestie and their family gather around the tree in matching sets for a photo-op, then we’ve got just the thing. When everyone asks where they got the adorable Pajama sets from, they’ll have you to thank. 

Alternatively, this is an opportunity to snag matching pajama sets for you and your best friends (and maybe your pets, too). 

For the Best Friend Who's Cardio-Obsessed

Give your bestie the gift of the only sports bra they’ll ever need: the Catalyst Sports Bra. This high impact baddie jumps, lunges, and strides with you seamlessly—even better, it will never give you the dreaded uni-boob thanks to its encapsulated cups. 

For the Best Friend Who’d Rather Stay in Than Go Out 

You want to hit the town and dance the night away, but they’d always rather curl up on the couch and watch a movie. This is a tried and true bestie dynamic that usually results in you caving in (so long as there are snacks and you get to pick the movie). 

Might as well embrace the inevitable and dial up the cozy with the gift of a Lace Trim Robe in a seasonal color. 

For the Best Friend Who Knows Your Birth Chart by Heart 

If your best friend is a little esoteric—she knows your moon sign and keeps a tarot deck in her purse—then the Stargazer print will have them feeling extra celestial. It certainly has the WingWoman Bra looking ethereal in time for winter, with its plunging neckline, molded foam cups, and wireless support. 

The cosmic print also comes in Leakproof Period Underwear styles, because what's a bra without a matching pair of undies? 

For the Best Friend Who (Literally) Gave You Life 

OK, so your best friend is your mom—no judgment here. While chances are slim you’ll ever be able to fully reciprocate the gift of life, you can start by paying back lost sleep with the comfiest Flannel Nightshirt (add a pair of plaid Leakproof Period Underwear to the mix, and it's basically a pajama set). 

Not that everything needs to be about matching pajama sets, but there's no denying 'tis the season to indulge it. 

For the Best Friend Who Sleeps in Old Threadbare T-Shirts

We all love a ratty, oversized t-shirt as much as the next gal, but holiday mornings call for cozy pajama sets—ones you can be seen in while you sip morning coffee. If your bestie’s due for some new PJ’s, Modal Sleepwear is pretty heavenly, as are plaid holiday pajama sets. 

Plus, you can borrow them whenever you sleepover.

But more often than not, the #RomanticizeYourLife hashtag is filled with ways to make your everyday life more special. It’s all about adding a sprinkle of main character energy into more mundane daily rituals. It helps make “regular” things feel exciting and wonderful.

There’s absolutely no better time to romanticize your life than in the cozy season of fall. So let’s go full Gilmore Girls with it and lean right in.

Lights, camera, action — here are some super simple ways to romanticize your life this fall.

Start With Your Underwear Drawer

In this Reddit Thread asking “What are some small things you do to romanticize mundane daily life?,” the most upvoted comment includes “wear sexy underwear.”

And amen to that, especially in the fall. Just because it’s getting colder and we’re layering up, doesn’t mean that we have to neglect feeling good about our base layers.

Instead of throwing on an old pair of undies in the morning, opt for a pair that feels DECADENT — even if no one will see them but you. Actually, especially if no one will see them but you! Hot! 

You don’t need super fancy lingerie for this either. You can simply refresh your underwear drawer with dreamy and rich new colors, like Red Velvet, Midnight, and Stargazer. Sexy! Mysterious!

Romanticize the Unlikely… Like Your Period 

Personally, I already feel like the main character when I get my period. Except that the character is a brooding goth in a teen movie. Which isn’t exactly the vibe we’re trying for here.

Take the changing season as an opportunity to brighten up experiences that don’t always feel so bright. Like your period! 

So while you refresh your underwear drawer with some sexy, confidence-boosting undies, throw some Leakproof into the mix too for when your period hits. They also come in sexy, confidence-boosting styles — like this cutie French Cut or these Lace ones too. 

Treat Yourself

Okay, okay! It’s cliché, I know. But it’s true! And treating yourself is basically the main tenant of romanticizing your life. So I had to write it.

These treats can be anything: fresh flowers, a new haircut, or a fancy bottle of wine.

It can even be a new bra. Treat your boobs, back, and let’s be honest — soul, by swapping out your current bra with something like the super comfy Revolution Pullover Adjustable Bra. It’s a customizable dream, feels incredibly smooth and is really easy to slip on and off. 

Or, kick the romanticizing up a notch with the Revolution Shadow Mesh Bra, whose peek of mesh will be a fun little special secret as you go about your daily routine. 

Get Glowy by Candlelight

Fall officially kicks off the season of “Wait, how is it already this dark at 4 pm?” Thankfully, romanticizing can make anything feel special — even daylight savings.

Next time you slink into the couch after work to watch The Golden Bachelor, light a whole bunch of candles too (bonus points if they’re the “good” ones, but more on that below). Making TV night feel like a treat is a simple way to elevate your 5-9 after your 9-5 this fall. 

Use the “Good Stuff”

We all have the “Good Stuff.” The good towels. The good face cream. The good plates. The good shoes — you know, all the “Good Stuff” we save for special occasions. But why wait? 

Work some of your “Good Stuff” into your regular days, too. Wearing your reaaaaally nice perfume to the grocery store can instantly transform grocery shopping into a special occasion. And that’s what romanticizing is all about. 

Running low on “good stuff?” It’s nothing adding matching undergarment sets in seasonal colors can’t solve. 

Aside from the fact that it sounds kind of fun, for all the times we’ve been poked and prodded by an underwire, there are a few bras we wouldn’t mind seeing go up in flames. 

Radical and bad-ass as it may sound, the whole bra-burning feminist thing is largely a myth — one that was concocted by sensationalist media outlets of eras past, looking for grabby headlines and to undermine the second wave feminist movement. 

It’s a legend that rewinds us back to the 1968 Miss America Pageant, where the Women’s Liberation Movement rallied to disrupt the narrow representations of female beauty and womanhood being put on display at the televised beauty pageant. 

The iconic demonstration featured a “Freedom Trash Can,” where women were invited to toss anything they viewed as symbolic tools of patriarchal oppression. As women stepped into their power, tubes of lipstick, women’s magazines, mops, and heels were hurled into the trash can by the dozen. 

Then, fatefully, some women unhooked their bras and slinged them into the trash, freeing their breasts from the constraints of their underwire shackles. The only kind of burning that took place, however, was purely symbolic. 

Against the backdrop of the feminist revolution, bras — with their metal wires and restrictive fabric — were increasingly seen as an oppressive garment. But, today, have we fully escaped the grips of the cone-bra, metal corset, and its latest iteration: the underwire bra?

With the advent of bras made by women for women, with the aim of being comfortable and not (necessarily) for the purposes of stoking male desire, we’d say there are some pretty revolutionary bras out there today (read: our lineup of aptly named Revolution Bras). 

The underwire bra has been deemed passé and the female gaze (and wireless bra) has stepped onto the scene — but the story of how we got here warrants more exploration. 

For one, bras have been around for a long long time. Garments used to hold up breasts have existed for basically as long as, well, breasts. 

Within the mosaics of a Sicilian castle that dates back to 4th century AD are depictions of women wearing supportive fabric while engaging in sport. 

But there’s a pretty wide gap between those makeshift garments and the modern, double cup, adjustable bra we know today. 

Notoriously rigid, restraining, and made from bone, ivory, and metal, corsets aimed to mold women’s bodies and emphasize a narrow waist. 

The corset reigned from the 16th century until 1889, when feminist Herminie Cadolle had the ingenious idea of cutting the undergarment in half for more freedom of movement — she coined it the “corselet-gorge.” 

In 1913, the modern bra made its first appearance when Mary Phelps Jacobs DIY-ed a piece of lingerie out of two silk handkerchiefs and some ribbon. Inspired to fashion it when her corset kept peeking out from her plunging neckline, she sold them to women in her community before selling the patent to Warner Brothers Corset Company for $1500. 

We can’t help but roll our eyes knowing the company went on to garner over $15 million in sales from the bra over the next few decades. 

By the time cup sizes and hook-and-eye fastenings came around, it was the 1930s. With metal being in high demand during wartime, the corset fell into oblivion while bras crafted for the male gaze gained ascendence. 

Popularized by stars like Marilyn Monroe and Jayne Mansfield during the Hollywood golden age, the bullet bra — with its cylindrical padding — made an impact on the evolving feminine ideal. 

Padded, and even inflatable bras were all the rage as full busts and cinched waists infiltrated everything from Christian Dior runways to movie screens. 

It’s no wonder by the time the 1960s came around, women were ready to throw in the towel (or throw the bra into the trash can, as the story goes). 

As women connected and rallied over their shared oppression (which, notably at this time lacked intersectionality) the bra became one of the many targets of pushing back against enforced femininity. 

Changing notions of gender and sexuality, inspired by the second wave feminist revolution, gave way to more organic shapes and functional fabrics. Women everywhere let out a giant sigh of relief.

Unfortunately, the reprieve was short-lived. Having abandoned centuries of restrictive, male-focused undergarments, the 90s and early-2000s marked a resurgence in performative sexiness. 

The same logic that was used to sell corsets and bullet bras to housewives in the 1950s was at work again, this time in the form of the underwire push-up bra. Designed to constrict and contort, lingerie was sold to women under the guise of self-empowerment. 

Rooted in male fantasy and pleasure, angel wings, slender frames, and seriously uncomfortable bras dominated the decades. 

While the bra seems to be here to stay, we’ve mostly stepped out of the dark ages of bras as symbols of female torture and into the golden days of comfortable, functional, and wireless bras — ones that women have designed themselves, based on their own needs and desires.

As women stake a claim on their sexuality, undergarments are less focused on seduction and increasingly prioritize how women want to look and feel. 

We don’t have to live between the dichotomy of “sexy” or “practical” — our undergarments can reflect our mood, personal taste, and style. 

Still, we can’t help but want to reclaim the image of the bra-burning feminist. It’s an enduring persona that was devised to trivialize the feminist movement, and it’s due for a rebrand. 

We’re all for the Revolution Bras of today that provide barely-there comfort and support, and ready to set our underwires ablaze — if only metaphorically. 

As feminist and journalist Lindsy Van Gelder, who’s famed for reporting on the 1968 Miss America Pageant protests once wrote: “I never burned my bra in the sixties, but I wish I had.” 

Thin was in, and I and every other adolescent I knew was busy internalizing the narrow beauty ideals that dominated the decade—a mission that every magazine ad, commercial, TV show, and music video seemed intent on conveying. 

When I discovered Knix would be collaborating with early aughts pop prince (and Knix friendly) Shawn Desman on a music video for his newest release “Love Me With The Lights On,” a wave of nostalgia took hold. Was this an opportunity for a mini do-over? 

What I hoped would ensue was a dance anthem that combined Y2K charm and shower-singing potential with the representation that era so desperately lacked. 

Unsure what to expect, on the day of the music video shoot, I was giddy to find Shawn’s 1-2-step in full effect, the spotlight surging with a diversity of underwear-clad folks strutting their stuff. 

The final product delivers the slow-motion captures, close-ups, saturated palette, glorious wind machines, and other Y2K-proclivities I’d hoped for—except it features everyday women.

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Behind the scenes, a chorus of folks cheered each other on as they stepped on camera for the first time. The warm and whimsical ambience suggested the shoot was, for many, an exercise in healing their inner-child.

“Conceptually, the whole thing is about empowering people to just be comfortable in your own skin,” Shawn tells me between takes, his eight-year-old daughter in tow. “I wanted [my daughter] to be here because I wanted her to see and hear all of this.”

Motivational speaker and music video star Jam Gamble describes the experience as “surreal.” 

I ask about the music video’s potential effect on young people. “I think I just know how I felt at that age. I didn't see myself in music videos,” she says. “The thought of somebody watching me and not feeling the way I felt back then is really powerful.”

For Victoria Chiappetta, growing up with a physical disability meant trying to dim her light to fit in. “It was [during] COVID that I started to see the world in a different light, through social media I started meeting people and was like, you know what, maybe there is space for me,” she says.

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She describes taking part in the music video as a full circle moment. “When you’re growing up and you don’t look like anybody, you’re really questioning your purpose and role in the world.” 

“I’ve been listening to Shawn since I was younger and growing up,” she continues. Being a part of the project—“it sounds cliche”—feels like a strange coincidence that has altered her perception of beauty. 

Representation means “seeing people like me, the girl with the prosthetic leg” and its powerful influence exceeds the personal, reverberating and inspiring others to step into their own light; to be seen and heard. 

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Everyone on set had their own story and motivating force for taking part in the music video, including Shawn, who wrote the song as an ode to his wife after health complications left her feeling self-conscious about her body.  

But if Shawn’s new certified bop is any indication, desire is no issue for the “Love Me With The Lights On” singer. 

Beyond its love ballad origins, the song and music video challenge traditional notions of beauty—asking the music video stars and audience alike: what does beauty mean to you?

Whether it’s moving through the world with confidence, refusing to shrink yourself to fit in, or being the representation you never saw growing up, the answer is free form and for you to decide. 

That’s the day the Barbie movie is finally unleashed into the universe of course — the day that every fiber of our beings, every cell in our bodies — will transform and evolve in a way that is both terrifying and exhilarating.

Okay, fine. Am I being dramatic re: my excitement over this summer flick? Maybe! But am I also completely justified in planning my entire summer — no, my entire 2023 — around this cinematic event? Absolutely, DUH. And with the release date soon, it’s officially time to prep. 

If there's anything we've learned, it's we can be anything. And something I wanna be is a Barbie Girl living in a Barbie World this summer!

If you do too, thankfully the rules are very simple:

1. Literally everyone and anyone can be a Barbie Girl. 
2. You must be as glamorous and fantastical as you can at all times.
3. Bright colors are essential.
4. Knowing how to rollerblade is obviously a nice touch. 

If you’re ready to follow the rules above for the best pink and pastel-hued summer ever — here are eight Barbiecore-themed pieces from Knix to help you get started.

Think Pink With the Shocking Pink Shadow Mesh Bra

What’s a Barbiecore wardrobe without hot pink? Wireless and supportive, the mesh plunging neckline in the Shadow Mesh Bra will make you feel so unstoppable that you could go to space. Or become a doctor. Or a pizza chef. Or do any of Barbie’s other 200 careers. 

Grab Something to Match — Like the Shocking Pink Shadow Mesh Leakproof High Rise

One thing Barbie definitely approves of? Wearing a coordinated, matching set. Grab matching undies in your fave Leakproof style like the High Rise, Thong, or Bikini!

Go Bold With a Pair of Leopard Print Thigh Savers 

Barbie is NOT afraid of a bold print, which makes this fierce pair of Leakproof Thigh Savers an absolute summer staple. Or add a little frill with a limited edition lacy pair of Papaya Pink Thigh Savers.

Designed in collaboration with everything-pink enthusiast (and icon) The Birds Papaya, upgrade your favorite Thigh Savers with some lace this summer. Living life with your thighs intact, it’s fantastic!

Get in the Barbie Beach Blast Buggy With the Balcony Cup Bikini in Grape Pop 

It doesn’t have to be all pink all the time! Make a splash with some other Barbie-approved shades, like this super cute purple bikini. You can snag the matching bottoms here too!

The Lace Longline Bra in Pink Plum Will Get Ken (or Midge’s) Attention

Super supportive, comfy and soft — the Lace Longline Bra in this delicate pink shade would get a thumb’s up from Barbie… if she could articulate her hands.

Channel Your Inner Olympic Barbie With the Amethyst Catalyst

For runs around the neighborhood, summer yoga sessions, and more, gear up with a high-impact Front Zip Catalyst (or the OG Catalyst) that would definitely be a staple in Barbie’s Dreamhouse closet.

Be Team Barbie This Summer With a Tennis Inspired Leakproof Skort 

Tennis icon Naomi Osaka has her own Barbie (naturally!), and you can get the look too with this Skort. The bonus? It’s Leakproof, so you can wear your tennis whites all summer long. 

Barbie Is All About Accessorizing, This Floral Tote Will Do the Trick

Plus, this Beach Tote can perfectly fit a pair of roller blades too. 

Come on Barbie, let’s go shopping!

So, why does visible allyship seem limited to certain timeframes? What’s the difference between changing a logo to reflect the rainbow colors versus impacting authentic change? What does showing up mean, who benefits from it, and why is it important?

Allyship is more than just a buzzword — it has the power to transform the experiences of Queer folks, to create a sense of belonging, and allow people to discover and embrace their most authentic selves.

Queerness Isn’t a Phase

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I was 15 when I first officially came out to my parents, and it was a terrifying experience. I was grounded and caught sneaking on a device I wasn’t supposed to have. Can you guess what I was doing? I was texting a girl I liked, of course. 

It felt like my life was about to be over. Not only did I get caught, but now they were going to figure out I was gay by way of those messages. I decided to rip off the band-aid before they did and broke down in front of my mom — I had something to confess, I told her. 

I thought I had been sneaky, but my mother saw right through my veil. As her firstborn, she told me, she knew more about me than I knew about myself. My father’s reaction was one I’ll never forget: “I understand, boys aren’t that pretty anyways.” It was very on brand for my father, who, to this day, has remained my fiercest ally. 

Falling outside of the norm can be an incredibly isolating experience for Queer youth. It’s funny, some will say exposing kids to 2SLGBTQ+ people or media will make them Queer. I couldn’t even name a Gay public figure — and, yet, I was Queer-er than a three dollar bill. 

It didn’t take long to figure out I was different; I could already identify my otherness from my peers and siblings. I was what you would classify a “tomboy.” I hated dresses, only played with “boy toys,” and was always roughhousing with the guys instead of playing nicely with the girls. 

Various family members commented that it was a “phase” I would grow out of — that when puberty hit, I’d be all makeup, dresses, and boy-crazy. Fast forward years later, I was still that same tomboy, even less concerned with male validation, still roughhousing, and avoiding dresses at all costs. 

Support Through the Trials of Self-Identity

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I’ve always been one of the first openly queer people in any of my circles. I was truly blessed to have a support system that allowed me to do so. My friends not only accepted me without question, but created space for me to become more comfortable with my masculine side. 

My first girlfriend was in seventh grade, and I dated my best friend for over a year. I remember all my friends helping me ask her out, being supportive of our relationship, and never excluding us from events just because we happened to be Queer. There was no awkwardness, no change in our affection for one another. 

Coming out can be a terrifying time for people; you may think you know someone or think their love for you is unconditional, only to find out there are conditions. As people navigate these trials of self-identity, allyship and support are crucial in making folks feel that they truly belong. 

Though, at the time, I still identified as Bisexual (compulsory heterosexuality is one hell of a curve and a topic that warrants its own article), I had the same support years later when I finally felt confident identifying as a Lesbian. 

Self-discovery is an ongoing journey throughout our lives. Some may be able to swiftly step into their true identity and never sway. In contrast, others’ identities may evolve and fluctuate — neither experience invalidates the other. 

I have friends who change their names every couple of years, one who no longer identifies with the gender they presented as when we were kids — it’s all just a part of life. We grow, we learn, and we make new discoveries. 

Showing support through these natural evolutions is when allyship truly shines.

Let Your Allyship Shine Bright

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I was able to come to terms with being Bisexual then, later in life, identifying as a Lesbian because of the support around me. Support and understanding from allies in the lives of Queer folks can make this journey to self-acceptance less daunting. 

Be that person who uses the correct pronouns, affirms people’s choices, allows them to change, and doesn’t project your own ideas onto others. Strong allies don’t just happen, in the same way that finding confidence in my Queerness didn’t happen overnight. 

Allyship takes a conscious effort to develop the necessary understanding to be a solid support system for Queer folks. Take time to listen, learn, and be okay with being a beginner. It also means extending your allyship beyond Pride month and committing to year-round efforts. 

Seek out resources from Queer folks, stay informed on events and news for your local area, but don’t expect to place the burden of education on Queer folks in your life. Professors and experts are paid to share their knowledge, which is labor you should keep in mind when interacting with Queer people. 

Cultivate your active listening skills, foster compassion, and, most of all, always approach things with love.

Among the recipients of a Knix Fund grant is Moon Time Sisters, a flagship project of True North Aid and organization supporting Northern menstruators.

As the only Indigenous-led period equity group in Canada, Moon Time Sisters — soon to be Moon Time Connections — takes a decolonized and menstruator-centered approach to addressing the unique challenges facing Northern and remote communities by providing cost-prohibitive period products to those in need completely free-of-cost. 

Most recently, we had the pleasure of sitting down with organization founder, Nicole White, to chat everything from gender equity to Indigenous wisdom.

Can you tell me more about Moon Time Sisters, your mission, and what inspired you to found the organization?

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We've been around since January, 2017 and that was as a result of reading a story about menstruators in Northern Saskatchewan missing school because they didn't have access to menstrual products. 

When you read stories about the North, there’s a deficit lens to it and I didn’t want to add to that. I started calling my community across Saskatchewan. What started off as a small one-off project has manifested into a national organization, which I’m so proud of. 

We’re one of the only Indigenous-led menstrual equity groups in Canada. Part of our mission that is quite unique is that we provide the full spectrum of products. I’m just thrilled to have Knix on board in such a meaningful, powerful way and to be able to provide a reusable product. 

I feel like a central part of menstrual equity is empowering people to make whatever choice works best for their body or circumstances. What are some of the unique period-related challenges facing Indigenous and Northern communities?

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I’ll lay out a few things that we hear often from our communities. Access to clean water is a major issue and a number of communities have been under water advisories for, sometimes, their whole lifetime depending on where they live. 

So having that full spectrum [of products] is really important. I know sometimes donors reach out and say, “you know what these girls really need,” and there’s this kind of paternalistic nature to it. So we have focused on hearing the needs of the community and have really strived to meet those needs. 

During the pandemic there were tampon shortages we had to navigate. We had major issues with transport to Northern communities because a number of airlines were no longer running North during the pandemic. So, we’ve strived to pivot when we can and focus on different ways to get product North. 

I guess the other piece when it comes to Northern and remote communities, we frequently hear about food costs being three, four, or five times what we pay in Southern communities. That [applies to] period products, too. 

I talked to one mom, she picked up some pads at their shelter and said, “you know, my girls and I have never actually had [period] products before.” They only ever used socks. The idea that we are giving [period products] is a simple and powerful way to provide people dignity.

There may be different challenges they’re navigating every single day, and if one thing they don’t have to worry about is a period product, I’m very proud to be a part of offering that to them.

Do you see period equity and gender equality as going hand in hand?

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It’s deeply interwoven. When we talk about body autonomy and somebody’s personal journey around menstruation, it’s all interconnected with gender equity. I think you actually hit the nail on the head because when somebody is missing school, that reduces their ability to graduate and their ability to get a great job down the road. 

There’s all sorts of things connected to deep isolation that I think all of us have navigated these last few years. We have just finished up a study — for the first time ever — on menstrual equity [that involves] hearing the voices of Northern menstruators in Canada. 

I’m really excited to showcase some of the things Northern menstruators are navigating. I think we need to have a deeper conversation around menstruation and how it impacts our quality of life every single day. I think I'm passionate about talking about it and de-stigmatizing menstruation anytime we can. 

What do we stand to gain from integrating Indigenous wisdom into discourse surrounding period equity? 

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As an organization, we’ve really tried to look at the call to action and try to incorporate our mission statement into a medicine wheel of support. I do have Elders I access and ask questions to. We don’t have a formal [elder] connected to our organization yet, but hopefully that will come in the future. 

Really honoring people’s journey — I think that is at our core. Because of the personal nature of menstruation, we prioritize body autonomy in asking communities, “what do you need?” Saying “this is the only product we’re going to send to you because we know best,” that’s paternalistic and colonial in nature. 

We really strive to work for community and with community. If you check out our social media, I think we’ve really strived to create a bridge to provide education to settlers and provide education in a meaningful way that connects menstrual equity and Indigenous ways of knowing. 

One of the things we’re working on internally is looking at a rebrand and renaming. I worked closely with a group of two-spirit Elders and down the road, within the next year, we’ll be changing our organizational name to Moon Time Connections to honor our two-spirit and trans menstruators. 

It’s been a really intentional journey and we have been doing some deeper work to decolonize our organization. I live, I learn, and we always strive to do better. 

With "Moon Time" in mind, I’d love to know more about Indigenous wisdom surrounding the connection between menstruation and the natural environment — which is often obscured in colonized discourse around periods.

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A lot of Indigenous cultures have rights of passage ceremonies — moon time — that honor the coming of age. When you first start to menstruate, there’s a ceremony that occurs where everyone in your life surrounds you with a circle of support and helps you transition to this next phase of life. 

I think it’s a really beautiful way to honor that rite of passage and honor the fact that we are supporting young menstruators, increasing educational outcomes, and helping them continue to be connected to community and support while they’re navigating menstruation.

Like many art forms, it has the power to evoke, inspire, and be profoundly political. And the star of our latest Get Ready With Me segment, Gay Jesus, channels all of the above into their drag persona and performances. 

We recently caught up with the fabulous drag king and burlesque performer — who's a force to be reckoned with on the Canadian drag scene — to talk spreading trans joy, what it means to cultivate an authentic drag persona, art as a catalyst for social change, and so much more. 

From acting to theatre to drag performances, it seems like you have a lot of spinning plates these days. Tell us about what you’ve been up to lately!

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As I type this out I’m actually recently returned from Winnipeg as of two days ago. I was there for two months working with Prairie Theatre Exchange on the world premiere of Volare by Elio Zarrillo.

It was my second time visiting, as my first was just last summer when I flew out to perform in drag for the Cluster Festival and Canada Pride. It’s incredibly special to me to be able to center my communities in the work that I do and to be invited into ones outside of my own is always very moving to me. 

I knew from early on in my work as an artist that I wanted the messaging in my artistry to push for social progress and to celebrate intersectional queer visibility, but I think the more I do it, the more amazed I am that this gets to be my job.

There were a lot of moments when I was told that this wouldn’t be possible, that even just being out would wreck my ability to work. But it’s actually given me the ability to connect so deeply with my community and to collaborate with artists whose morals and values reflect and even inspire mine.

This past year, I got the chance to play Arrow on the CBC and HBO Max original series Sort Of, and if you told me that would’ve been my future when I first started my career, I don’t know if I would’ve even been able to imagine what that looked like.

I feel very similarly about drag. Performing as a drag king and as Gay Jesus has always felt very sacred to me. But since returning from lockdowns, the best way to describe the level of joy I feel is to tell you that my job involves me looking into a sea of happy queer people. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

Last year, you performed virtually (due to COVID) for Knix HQ’s Pride party. How does it feel to be performing in person once again? 

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Ah, the virtual Knix HQ Party was one of the highlights of my Pride last year! Being back to in-person performances brings so much joy to get to see community in the flesh, however I must admit that there’s also an undercurrent of fear that’s constantly running through me.

Realistically speaking, Covid-19 is still very much present and threatening people’s health. If I’m totally honest, I’m constantly wondering if we’re all about to get sick and I’m constantly looking at rooms and wondering who’s missing.

There’s so much life in every room I get to step into, but I can’t help but think about how many people should still be here had this pandemic been handled differently and noticing who in our community is still unable to come out because of the lack of precautions in place.

There are many disabled members of our community and people who are immunocompromised or people who live with loved ones who are immunocompromised who’ve expressed frustration and their inability to come back to community spaces.

So it’s a mixed bag. There’s joy, there’s deep frustration, and there’s a lot of work left to be done.

As a drag artist and burlesque performer, you seamlessly weave together masculine and feminine elements. How have you cultivated a drag persona that feels authentic to you?

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I think three major elements that have allowed me to cultivate a drag persona that feels authentic to me have been listening to my gut instincts no matter how absurd they may seem, constantly learning, and giving myself permission to evolve.

Everyone has different things that excite them, different songs that give them chills, different favourite shades of lipsticks, different tastes for food. The same can apply to art and to creation.

As Gay Jesus I get to have full creative control over my creations and performances. No matter what’s around me and what I may perceive to be good or right, I’ve learned that I really have to lean into what excites me and what piques my interest.

It’s like when you hear a scientist get excited talking about their specialty. I’ve learned that I have to give myself permission to dive into my strange little interests even though they may seem off, or not necessarily correct. Those are always where the exciting bits live.

When we think of refining a craft, it’s often viewed in an academic sense, but as an artist I think of it more so in the ways we absorb the world. There’s so much I don’t know and the more I feed my brain, the more it has to play with and the more it can be inspired by.

Then there’s giving yourself permission to evolve. It’s something we do on a daily basis whether we want to or not which means that, because we’re changing as people, our artistry is also perpetually in flux.

It can be jarring sometimes to change parts of your work that feel foundational, but I think it’s important to honor who you’re becoming. I will say though, that the part that’s helped me re-find my center throughout these evolutions, has been returning to my roots and asking myself why I create art and perform drag in the first place.

The answer gets to change depending on where I’m at, but it’s always what helps me grounds my performances no matter where they may be growing toward. 

Drag is political — and with the influx of anti-drag and anti-trans legislation taking place down south, it feels like that has never been more true. Do social politics feel central to your work? 

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Social politics are absolutely central to my work. Politics were actually my main interest when getting involved with the arts in the first place.

Art, in its many forms, is a huge catalyst for social change, social commentary, and for activism. I’ve found that incorporating conversations about human rights, social change, and injustice into drag as a form of performance art and as a form of protest actually helps in tearing down barriers in terms of who feels they can be a part of those conversations.

Drag performance has the potential to transcend class and language in a way that makes these conversations accessible. It not only allows people to feel heard and seen, but it lets them know that they, too, get to be empowered in their voices.

What we’re seeing in regards to anti-drag and anti-trans legislation in America, and knowing the increase in protests and violence against 2SLGBTQ+ people in Canada, it makes me sick.

This idea that children need to be protected from drag artists and from trans people is incredibly transparent. Drag performers and trans people do not threaten the safety of children.

People and politicians who seek to control the bodies and educations of citizens in order to strengthen propaganda that targets the eradication of a marginalized group of people are the threat. Violence this severe needs to be called out for what it is and it needs to be stopped in its tracks.

How can folks — community members and allies alike​​ — push back against these injustices and offer support?

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This is such a big question but I think there’s a variety of things that can be done. I think firstly reaching out to your local government is extremely important.

We often forget, in the day to day, that our government works for its citizens. It’s fully within your rights to write and/or call your municipal, provincial, and even federal representatives.

Let them know that the protection of queer artists and of 2SLGBTQ+ rights is important to you. Ask them where they stand on it, what they’re doing to protect the queer community against current attacks, and what their steps are moving forward to prevent an attack on human rights.

Secondly, I think getting active within your community is super important. Learn the queer history of where you live and look into what community groups and organizations are there that you can contribute to. Learn from local activists and listen to what they’re asking for on a local level.

The more queer voices and perspectives we take in, the more it also allows ourselves to dismantle the pre-conceived notions that we may have internalized over time while also supplying us with the information it takes to open these conversations with friends, loved ones, and co-workers.

That’s where the potential discomfort comes in. Sometimes it’s hard to face some of the notions we hold, but we do need to confront them if we want to build a stronger society overall. Additionally, sometimes one on one conversations are really hard to have, but it’s in letting it slide that we allow these violences to build over time.

And finally, if it’s new to you or depending on your history with protest, it can be hard to put your body on the line and show up for protest and/or counter-protests. But I think it’s important to remember, whether it’s as allies or as queer people, that it’s Black and Latinx Trans Women that we have to thank for the rights we have today.

People who were sex workers, people who were poor, people who were Mad. People who lived in the most marginalized sector of our society who stood up and said no more.

I think that part of how we honor the work they did is by standing up and saying no more as a community and in a way that protects our most marginalized so that we’re able to achieve progress in a way that is supportive and equitable for our entire community.

On a lighter note, how are you planning on spreading trans joy this Pride?

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BY SMILING AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE. That sounds so silly, but it’s truly part of my plan. I love my job, it’s honestly such an honor to get to do it every day. Part of how I plan on spreading trans joy this Pride is by celebrating and uplifting the trans people in my life on a personal level.

On a public level and on an artistic level, this year I’m thinking a lot about what it means to share the notion that it’s entirely possible to have a future as a trans person and to grow super amazingly old.

I turn 30 this year which is super young but, as a trans Latinx person, that technically means I’m entering my years as an elder. There’s nothing right about that, and I think a lot of our youth know that.

I think a lot of our community at large feels that very deeply across the board. But recently, while working with Prairie Theatre Exchange in Winnipeg, we had some GSA’s come and see the play and we got to read feedback from some of the students. There were a couple of them who spoke about how seeing a trans actor onstage gave them hope for their futures and for the world.

It reminded me of my wonderful friend and legendary activist Lezlie Lee Kam. Lezlie does this beautiful thing, where they wish for you to become a queer elder one day. The day they imparted that to me entirely changed the course of my life because it told me that I had a future, that I had the option of getting old.

It’s been a gift that I cherish very deeply. I hope that I can honor them and that teaching by making it known that trans futures are entirely possible. That our lives get to be lush, and exciting, and complicated, and loving, and full, and long.

Controversial question: if you could only perform one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?

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HOW DARE YOU. Weirdly, even though I have yet to perform it in person, the only song that’s played in my head every time I’ve read this question has been No Me Queda Más by Selena.

I sometimes like to think that I’m very chill and not dramatic and then I remember that I’ve been singing passionate heartbreak songs in Spanish since I had baby teeth. This song carries so many memories for me from moments shared with my family, to moments alone, to moments with the chosen family I get to have in my life today.

Additionally, it embodies such a richness of emotion. It carries deep love, it carries extravagance, it carries rage. But I think the thing that gets me about it is that it’s so brutally honest.

In our day to days, we don’t always like to admit how we feel, and this song not only voices it, but it makes no apologies for the levels at which it loved and the levels at which it’s lost. I think that’s one of the most beautiful things in the world. 

Is there anything else you want our readers to know?

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THAT THEY’RE AMAZING?! Yes. That they’re amazing. It means so much to me that anyone would take interest in my art and what I do, so it means a great deal that Knix reached out to me and that your wonderful readers would take the time to get to know me through this interview.

If they’d like to follow more of my adventures and come visit me throughout Pride events, the best place to find me is on Instagram.

I’m so grateful for what I do for a living, but I’m most grateful for the people that drag and burlesque has brought into my life and the ways they’ve deeply impacted my relationship to the world and my relationship to myself.

When I was trying on my new Knix garments just now, I looked in the mirror and smiled and it made me think of all the people that have made it possible for me to love myself while standing in the mirror in my underwear.

I hope today that you take the time to look in the mirror, whether you’re in your skivviest skivvies or just knowing they’re hiding under your outfit, and give yourself a smile.

You deserve every ounce of it.