Lion’s Story

Gender: Non-Binary

Pronouns: they/them

Current home: Washington D.C.

From: D.C. born and raised

Interests: Artist, Photographer, Writer/Poet, Clothing Brand Creator/Owner

As human beings, we are constantly evolving, no matter how subtle or grand it may be individually.  I find myself embracing change, embracing the journey of simply existing. I have so much life ahead of me, and I’ve come to realize so much about myself already. Despite my youth and discovery, there’s no timeline for such a thing.

Conforming to society is just a natural pressure, a temptation.  For a second, I thought that’s who I had to be; someone that was more feminine, someone who dressed more acceptably.  Now looking back, I realize that pressure not only helped me blossom physically, but it also provided a much needed love for myself.  A mentality.

And no.  Even now, not everyone may like the way I dress, speak, the way I carry myself, but the difference between then and now is the fact that I love who I am.  Clothes to me are more than just fashion, they’re identity, how I act, talk, my interests.  It’s all me; and I love me.

It’s worth noting that the confidence, the growth away from conformity and fear are based on the mental notes – the fact that I can no longer be deterred and tell myself, “It’s okay that a few people don’t like what I’m about, because at the end of the day, it’s what I stand for, not them. It’s how comfortable I am. The fact that I KNOW I look good.”

I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again.  Clothes are expression, not just fashion.  At the same time, at the end of the day, it’s nothing but fabric.  The real beauty is in yourself, in how you rock what you feel comfortable in.  Theres no limit. No gender. To clothing. It’s all just fabric – made for you to slay YOUR WAY.

And, from personal experience…maybe consider the thought that those who are hateful and bitter and say mean things…are just envious, curious.  In this world, it’s a struggle for us all to face identity and the struggle of conformity.  Being that star piece and standing out amongst the crowd as someone comfortable in their skin can make others envious, but it can also inspire more. The positive in the negative.

Photographs taken in April 2025, Washington D.C.