The truth is, the fashion landscape has changed dramatically. There’s been a clear shift in consumer behavior, with many people — especially younger generations — buying from fast fashion platforms like Shein and Temu, where you can get underwear for $3.
These platforms are heavily subsidized by the Chinese government as part of a broader strategy to dominate global markets — the same approach they’ve used successfully in industries like steel. When you’re competing against $3 underwear that’s being sold at a loss as part of a government economic strategy, the math becomes pretty clear.
Before making the decision to close, I actually reached out to all the major apparel companies, offering them the opportunity to acquire Andrew Christian. Unfortunately, none showed interest. Along with the dumping of Chinese fast fashion into our market, the political climate seems to have made it unpopular for large companies to invest in gay brands. There’s a reluctance to associate with LGBTQ+ focused businesses that simply wasn’t there a few years ago.
If the LGBTQ+ community doesn’t support other gay brands, gay bars, and similar businesses, there will be no gay businesses left. We’re at a critical moment where our own community needs to make conscious choices about where we spend our money, or we’ll lose the very spaces and brands that have supported us for decades.
Andrew Christian speaking to Queerty about why he’s shutting down his iconic namesake underwear line.
Related*
Sign up for the Queerty newsletter to stay on top of the hottest stories in LGBTQ+ entertainment, politics, and culture.
Help make sure LGBTQ+ stories are being told…
We can’t rely on mainstream media to tell our stories. That’s why we don’t lock Queerty articles behind a paywall. Will you support our mission with a contribution today?
Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated
