After coming out as transmasculine and non-binary at 30, I began exploring my identity through fashion, makeup, and medically transitioning with testosterone and top surgery. As my body changed, so did my wardrobe, which led me to create LGBTQ+ clothes swaps to help others explore their style without breaking the bank. I started hosting these events in Leeds in 2022, and they’ve since spread to other cities, providing a safe, inclusive space for people to express themselves. My favourite khaki, dark green, and brown shirt is one of many gems I’ve found through these swaps, and it brings me so much joy and confidence.
Read my full story here.
Luce is one of the directors here at Trans Support Hub. Having been friends with Jamie since university, when the opportunity to support Jamie's journey and be part of Trans Support Hub came up, it was a no brainer!
She is a Developer Advocate at MongoDB by day which also involves a lot of work around helping people. She is also a community champion for Microsoft, having been a Microsoft MVP since 2018. Plus in 2024 she released a technical book! She loves all things tech and helping people and can usually be found at clothes swaps organising clothes racks or dreaming of ways to use tech to help more people.
When not creating content or dreaming of ways to use tech with Trans Support Hub to help as many people as possible, she can be found in the gym or on the squash court with her local LGBTQ+ squash club.
Trans Support Hub began when Jamie was ready to part with his pre-transition clothes. They were really personal to him, so he wanted them to go to a good home. He decided to host a clothes swap to explore his own style and invite other LGBTQ+ people to swap their items as well. Jamie collected donations from family and friends in preparation for the event, which took place at Wharf Chambers in Leeds. Despite it being an exceptionally hot day in July, people turned up to swap. There was a lovely buzz in the room, with people making friends and sharing style tips. It was heartwarming, and Jamie found himself becoming quite addicted to that atmosphere.
The target audience for the events is anyone who is LGBTQ+ and interested in swapping clothes, particularly those exploring their gender. We aim to maintain a safe space, which also includes people’s support networks. Some attendees bring spouses or parents to help them choose clothes that match their identity. It’s not just for people in the early stages of transitioning; the clothes swaps are also great for the environment, saving money, and supporting personal growth.
2024 Trans Support Hub