We may not have a Pride Parade this year, but we can still celebrate in various ways, including donating to LGBTQ organizations and buying from LGBTQ-owned brands. There are also a number of brands out there that are supporting Pride and giving all or a significant portion of proceeds to organizations advocating for the LGBTQ community. From makeup to candles to cookie dough, justify your next online shopping trip with these brands and products that are supporting the LBGTQ community in a variety of ways.
Morphe
Morphe launched their “Free to Be” Collection, and the colors are a rainbow DREAM. I have gotten almost too comfortable being a hermit in my home, but I swear this palette makes me want to go out, just so I have an excuse to put on R-E-S-P-E-C-T. The shade names will make you smile, and so will the brushes and lip gloss that complete this set. 100% of net proceeds from the sales of this collection (purchased through Morphe.com and Morphe Stores) during Pride will be donated to GLSEN to help create safe and supportive school environments for K-12 students.
Youth to the People
Youth to the People’s “With Pride” Kit is made up of three existing minis, formulated to cleanse, resurface, and hydrate your skin. As someone who uses this brand religiously, I can confirm the products are amazing, but what makes this kit even more worth purchasing is the fact that 100% of profits are being donated to GLSEN as well. (In case you forgot, they are the leading education organization working to create safe and inclusive schools for LGBTQ+ students). P.S. This kit works on dry, combo, and oily skin, so regardless of your type, this is worth the purchase.
Bliss
If you’re covered in glitter and glam post-Pride celebrations, Bliss’ Makeup Melt Wipes will be your new best friend. Originally, Bliss pledged to donate 100% of net proceeds from the Limited Edition wipes with the rainbow design (pictured above) to The Trevor Project, but with Pride events being canceled nationwide, Bliss is now extending the donation to include 100% of net proceeds from its complete collection of Makeup Melt Wipes. The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ youth.
innisfree
innisfree’s “Spill the Equali-tea” mini lip balm set is great, because we all know that lip balms go missing faster than anything else in the world (aside from maybe bobby pins) and backups are always necessary. innisfree has partnered with the It Gets Better Project for Pride month, and will be donating to help support and empower the LGBTQ+ youth in our global community.
NOTO Botanics
NOTO is a natural, multi-use, gender fluid cosmetic line packed with high-performing organic ingredients. They focus on representation and celebrate those choosing to be their most authentic self. Every sale of NOTO’s Agender Oil (pictured above) goes to non-profits including LGBT Youth Center LA, Planned Parenthood, ACLU, the Audre Lorde Project, Black Mamas Matter, and more. Founded by Gloria Noto, a queer woman, the brand has raised $22,000 and counting in donations.
Marc Jacobs Beauty
Marc Jacobs Beauty sometimes goes under the radar, but I am actually obsessed with this product. The Enamored (With Pride) Hydrating Lip Gloss Stick is basically a dream come true, as someone who loves lip gloss but could do without the mess it makes. All of the colors are fairly neutral and wearable, and work with every skin tone. Marc Jacobs Beauty will be donating to two charities—SAGE, the world’s largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ older adults, and Le Refuge, a French organization dedicated to preventing the isolation and suicide of LGBTQ+ youth by providing shelter and support.
Hi Wildflower
Hi Wildflower was created and founded by queer Bangladeshi novelist, Tanaïs. Their muse was wildflowers, hence the name, and the brand is for the socially conscious consumer looking for luxury goods. Ranging from fragrance to candles and lipsticks too, Hi Wildflower’s well sought-after products are as good as they sound. The Dianthus Lipstick is the perfect universal red, and the Mojave Extrait de Parfum is the best thing you will ever smell, and is unisex!
Boy Smells
I have a freakish obsession with candles, so I was thrilled to see that my favorites, Boy Smells, made a six-candle set titled Bundle of Pride to illuminate inclusivity. Founded by partners Matthew Herman and David Kien, you can feel the love when lighting any of these candles. The collection will support The Trevor Project, with all purchases contributing towards a $26,500 donation minimum. The smells vary from citrus to floral, woody and warm. They also make for a beautiful display!
(MALIN+GOETZ)
I’ve been a long-time fan of (MALIN+GOETZ) because, you guessed it, candles. Founded by couple Matthew Malin and Andrew Goetz, M+G brings you an “uncomplicated” regimen for body, hair, and personal/home fragrance. Their Bergamot Hand Wash and Grapefruit Face Cleanser are two fan favorites, but the candles are the bread and butter. Neroli is my personal go-to, but the Dark Rum is a rumored must-have.
dō
As someone with a very intense sweet tooth, edible cookie dough is music to my ears. This year, dō launched their love is love pack, which, as you can see, is a rather intense but very delicious scoop of rainbow deliciousness. The pack comes with four flavors: signature chocolate chip, cake batter, sugar cookie, and rainbow dō (which is also sugar cookie flavor). 20% of every purchase of this pack will be donated to the National Black Justice Coalition, a civil rights organization dedicated to the empowerment of Black LGBTQ and same-gender loving (SGL) people.
Reebok
This year, Reebok launched an entire Pride collection. I can say with confidence that I would wear every single thing out of this collection, and it varies from the brightest of rainbows to the most simple of designs in the form of sneakers, athletic wear, and accessories. As part of their campaign, Reebok is donating $75K to the It Gets Better Project.
I feel like I must put a disclaimer here that I am 6 feet tall and even two inch heels makes me nervous, but I could not resist adding this collection in for obvious reasons. This Pride Pump screams “love” (literally), and Ruthie Davis is donating 20% of sales from the Pride Pump (pictured) and Pride Kick to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center of New York City. Both styles are offered in extended gender fluid sizing up to 43.
I am thankful to see more and more brands using their platforms to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and donate to help organizations on the ground doing the work. Happy Pride, everyone!
Images: Isi Parente / Unsplash; Morphe.com; Youthtothepeople.com; Courtesy of Bliss; Innisfree.com; Marcjacobsbeauty.com; Cookiedonyc.com; Courtesy of Vivrelle; Reebok.com; Courtesy of Ruthie Davis; Boysmells.com; hiwildflower.com; notobotanics.com; malinandgoetz.com
January f*cking sucks. And February is honestly worse. It’s dark, it’s cold, and Colton’s Bachelor season is making me concerned about the state of our future. So what better way to brighten up this dreadful time than with some beauty products specially chosen to fit your zodiac sign? I mean, who doesn’t love a little customization, especially when your horoscope is involved?
Aries
SKINFOOD Black Sugar Mask Wash Off
Although a spa day probably doesn’t sound like the best use of your precious time, it’s good to put that hard-working mind to rest for a bit, Aries. You’re courageous, so you’re totally into trying new products, but you’re also super impatient and can’t afford to sit and soak all day. SKINFOOD has been creating food-based beauty products since 1957, so you can bet they’ve perfected their method by now. This sugar-based exfoliating mask will have you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed in less than 20 minutes.
Taurus
Love Beauty and Planet Murumuru Butter Rose Blooming Color Shampoo
You’re super responsible, Taurus, so your beauty products should be too. Love Beauty And Planet has the most luscious and sweet-smelling shampoo. Your practical self can find this shampoo at your local Ulta for under ten dollars. It’s also sulfate-free so it won’t ruin your Keratin-drenched locks or newly colored hair. The best part? It’s infused with a ton of organic sh*t, has not been tested on animals, and comes in a bottle made of 100% recycled plastic. How boho of you, Taurus.
Gemini
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
While being a social butterfly has its perks, most social events you’ve been attending involve an indulgent amount of alcohol. So let’s give your liver a break and show your dried-out skin some love. Like you, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is gentle and affectionate, smoothing out your dehydrated skin. Don’t let your indecisiveness keep you from trying this product. Besides, it’s basically a cult classic at this point, so you really can’t go wrong.
Cancer
Caudalie Vinopure Skin Perfecting Serum
Since the New Year, you’ve been in go-mode. Whether that be in your career, relationships, or Insta-stalking abilities, you’ve been putting a ton of effort into your passions. With that, though, can come some neglect, specifically of your face. Skipping a few morning face washes? Thought so. This lightweight Caudalie serum has everything you need in one bottle. The salicylic acid base flushes out excess oil, tightens your pores, and activates your skin’s natural glow.
Leo
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter
You’re stubborn as hell, Leo, so I can’t convince you of much, but if you want one beauty product in your life right now, it’s Becca’s Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter. With colors to complement every skin tone and type, this highlighter takes any flat-faced makeup look to the next f*cking level. Even if you don’t want to admit it, we all know you’re dramatic AF, so don’t deny your makeup look of the same impact. So try and listen to someone other than yourself for once, Leo—I promise it’ll pay off.
Virgo
Guerlain Cils D’Enfer Maxi Lash Volume Creating Curl Sculpting Mascara
It’s been a rocky start to the New Year, Virgo, but things are finally turning around for you. Your constant anxiety will probably subside, but if it doesn’t, let’s at least make you look like you’ve got your sh*t together. In my mind, a great mascara can fix practically anything. My go-to is always Guerlain’s Mascara Cils D’Enfer. Getting this mascara in any other color than black is a sin. Their serum is one of the darkest I’ve ever used, which is perfect for your all-black wardrobe, Virgo. It’s reliable and loyal, just like you, so it’s worth the splurge.
Libra
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
You may be the queen of fairness, Libra, but lately you’ve been acting like a bad bitch. And we love it on you. To match your bold new attitude (without straying too far from your comfort zone), try out a classy and defined brow look. The best of the bunch? Anastasia Brow Wiz. With its fine tip and waxy formula, you’ll get an Insta-worthy brow every time. Even when life takes you for a turn, your harmonious personality can come through in the symmetry of your eyebrows—cause life is better with perfect brows.
Scorpio
It’s cold as ice, and I’m not talking about your heart, Scorpio. In this frigid weather you’ll have to be taking extra good care of yourself, because we all know how f*cking dramatic you get every time you catch a cold. It’s annoying. Instead, take a nice warm bath with a Lush Big Blue Bath Bomb. This lavender and lemon-scented bomb fills your bath with ocean-blue goodness. Light a few candles, grab a book, and in no time you’ll have an Insta-worthy bath (but don’t actually post it please).
Sagittarius
Tom Ford Shadow Extreme Eye Shadow
Ever since the start of 2019, you’ve been overly generous with your time, Sagittarius. So it’s okay to be a little selfish as we slip into the icy month of February. While it may seem pricey for an eyeshadow, the Tom Ford Shadow Extreme Eye Shadow has been voted Allure’s best in beauty, so it’s totally worth the extra bucks. Choose from an array of vivacious and flirty colors that only a Sagittarius like yourself could pull off. It’s time to start putting yourself first again, so bring on the bold eyes.
Capricorn
NEOM Organics London Perfect Night’s Sleep Face Oil
It’s been an exhausting past few months for you, Capricorn, and as self-disciplined as you are, you haven’t been the most responsible. Ever since that office holiday party, you’ve gone just a touch too hard (did I say a touch? How about a slap). Ending off the month, it’s time for you to re-find your ~zen~ space. The NEOM Organics London Perfect Night Sleep Face Oil is full of rejuvenating vitamins. It also encourages sleep (IDK how, I’m not a scientist) so you’ll be getting those eight hours in without stress.
Aquarius
Take Me For Pomegranate Lip Whip
Happy birth month, Aquarius! You know what that means? A big-ol’ birthday present for yourself. You’re an independent and unique woman, so buying yourself a gift can be a little tricky. We know you don’t want to go for anything too mainstream. Beauty Bakerie is an adorable indie makeup brand that packages and names all of their products in the theme of food or baking (could it get any cuter?). Get that bold birthday lip look with their Take Me For Pomegranate lip whip. Bonus: it’s vegan, paraben- and cruelty-free, and smudge-proof.
Pisces
James Charles X Morphe Dare To Create Artistry Pallet
It’s time to get creative with your beauty game. With an artistic mind like yours, Pisces, you have the ability to pull off wild makeup looks that none of us mere mortals could ever dream of doing. This is why you need to get yourself the James Charles x Morphe Dare To Create Artistry Pallet. Your distrusting ways may give you hesitation about this purchase, but thousands of happy customers can’t be wrong. The colors are super pigmented and are perfect for unleashing your wildest side. Even though the palette is currently sold out, you can add yourself to an email list. Besides, you have to work on your patience anyways.
Images: SKINFOOD; Murumuru; Neutrogena; Becca; Caudalie; Guerlain; Anastasia; Lush; Tom Ford; NEOM; Beauty Bakerie; Morphe/Ulta
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