Luxury Lingerie Made ‘By Women, For Women’ Defends Using ‘Non-Binary,’ Biological Male Model

The luxury lingerie brand, Honey Birdette, which promotes itself as being “by women, for women,” has defended its recent use of a biological male model, Jake Dupree, to showcase its merchandise. The move drew criticism, with some customers expressing disappointment in the company’s decision to feature a model that identifies as “non-binary.” The brand, which has an international following, quickly disabled comments on an Instagram post featuring Dupree, stating that “hate speech” would not be tolerated. Honey Birdette subsequently released a statement confirming its intention to create an inclusive and diverse environment and to empower and support the LGBTQ+ community and anyone who wants to feel fabulous in its luxury lingerie. It also announced its intention to make a donation in support of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The brand’s use of a transgender-identifying model, Carmen Carrera, in an advertising campaign last year has previously been hailed as a breakthrough for the trans community. However, Honey Birdette’s decision to use a non-binary, biological male model in this latest campaign has raised eyebrows among many of its customers. Brands such as Nike and Bud Light have had similar experiences with trans influencers recently, resulting in boycotts and lost revenue.

Honey Birdette has chosen to stick by its decision and has reaffirmed its commitment to diversity and inclusivity, as well as its support for the LGBTQ+ community.