Garden of Swann

A queer fashion showcase for WorldPride DC 2025, celebrating cultural heritage, self-expression, and collective liberation through design.

About the Show

Garden of Swann was part of the WorldPride Welcome + Visual Arts Center, which hosted 10,250+ visitors across 14 exhibits and 13 programs. As one of the featured artistic expressions, our fashion show explored the intersection of queer identity, textile traditions, and design innovation.

Through collaborative storytelling, each garment in the show honored the theme of“Fabric of Freedom” — a visual and emotional narrative of resilience, joy, and liberation. The event spotlighted LGBTQIA+ voices, including those from diasporic, trans, and disabled communities.

Honoring William Dorsey Swann

Known as the first self-identified drag queen in the United States, William Dorsey Swann organized underground drag balls in Washington, D.C. during the late 1800s. His legacy of resistance, joy, and community organizing informs the values behind Garden of Swann.

Q: William Dorsey Swann 101?

Q: Do you know what cake walking is?

Watch a historical cake walk demonstration

Follow the Journey

We shared mood boards, in-progress textiles, and installation sketches as we prepare for WorldPride DC. Catch the stories, reel and see the behind-the-scenes updates.

Watch on Instagram