Rebel Yarns: The "Protect the Dolls" Tee – A Fashion Statement for Trans Rights
"Defend the Dolls": The Viral Impact of a T-Shirt Emblematic of Transgender Advocacy
The "Protect the Dolls" t-shirt hit the spotlight after popular celebrities started sporting it, making waves in the fashion world and beyond. Designed by Conner Ives, this stylish wardrobe staple has a heartfelt backstory rooted in trans rights activism.
Just a Cool Tee? Think Again
Pedro Pascal sent shockwaves through Hollywood when he rocked a "Protect the Dolls" tee at the London premiere of Thunderbolts, days after the UK Supreme Court decided on the definition of "woman." Citing trans rights as an essential issue, Pascal has been a vocal advocate, especially since his sister came out as trans in 2021.
From NYC Runways to Red Carpet Debut
Ives, a London-based designer, debuted the upcycled shirt at his Fall 2025 show during London Fashion Week in February. The phrase gained notoriety in the 1980s from the ballroom scene, an underground queer culture that has left an impact on the fashion industry.
"I wanted to say something, given the recent political climate,” Ives revealed to the New York Times, referring to Trump's inauguration ban on transgender recognition. Since then, the "Protect the Dolls" campaign has reached new heights, with A-listers like Troye Sivan, Haider Ackermann, and Charli XCX sporting the tee.
Reviving a Powerful Phrase
'Dolls' is a term used by the African American, Latino, and non-white trans women within the 1980s ballroom scene as a symbol of affirmation and femininity. By resurrecting this expression, the "Protect the Dolls" campaign resonates powerfully with a younger generation, serving as a rallying call for trans solidarity.
Slaying it for a Cause
Sales of the £75 t-shirt have skyrocketed, raking in over £190,235 (approximately €222,500) as of 18 April, with most proceeds going to the Trans Lifeline charity. As the tee remains unavailable, fans can still show their support by pre-ordering this symbolic garment. 💪✊🏳️⚧️
- Pedro Pascal, a vocal advocate for trans rights, wore the "Protect the Dolls" tee at a movie premiere, citing recent political events as his motivation.
- The "Protect the Dolls" campaign, with its roots in 1980s trans rights activism, has found new prominence in the fashion-and-beauty industry, thanks in part to its debut at London Fashion Week.
- Designed by Conner Ives, the "Protect the Dolls" t-shirt, a lifeline for trans rights activism, has garnered attention from celebrities such as Troye Sivan, Haider Ackermann, and Charli XCX.
- The "Protect the Dolls" tee, a statement piece in the fashion world, has become more than just a cool garment, sparking discussions about politics and general-news topics.
- A portion of the sales from the "Protect the Dolls" t-shirt goes to the Trans Lifeline charity, with sales surpassing £190,235 as of 18 April, demonstrating the tee's emotive impact and widespread support in entertainment circles.
