Breaking The Binary, Slow Fashion, and Body Euphoria with Rae Hill
Walk in just about any clothing store and you’ll find a few things to be true: a “fat tax” is imposed, clothing can’t be mended to accommodate changing bodies, and fast fashion drives the bottom dollar. Scroll through Rae Hill’s website and you’ll see the opposite: garments that can be altered, that are made to last, and break binaries. This business model is rare, but it’s the driving force behind Origami Customs.
In episode 91 of the Unruly Podcast Rae, the founder, shares about starting their business from a suitcase, lugging their sewing machine from one flight to another. We learn how travel impacted their gender identity and how they break down binaries even in LGBTQ+ spaces.
TUNE IN TO LEARN:
- What “fat tax” is and how Origami Customs does it differently
- How the fashion industry based their standard sizes off small bodies (and how that impacts our mental health today)
- How scarcity mindset pushes us to support fast fashion and disposability culture
- How to do Black Friday differently, even if you’re not ready to boycott
- How to have an anti-capitalist business in an ultra capitalistic society
Throughout the conversation Calen and Rae weave messages of queer euphoria and joy, reminding folks of the cherished superpowers they possess. As a stressful holiday season descends upon us, let this be your reminder to keep building community and chosen family wherever you are.
Shownotes:
Additional Resources:
- Queer Blossoming And Becoming: Celebrating Queer Country Pride
- How To *Actually* Protect Trans People
- Best LGBTQ+ Podcast Episodes For Queer Adults In 2025
- Exploring Religious Trauma Therapy For The LGBTQ+ Community
