This editorial series explores the tension between queer visibility and societal biases that constrain free gender expression. While significant progress has been achieved globally in the recognition of LGBTQIA+ rights, and overt acts of discrimination are increasingly condemned, strong biases – often subtle and unconscious ones – persist against those who challenge conventional gender norms and are often masked by surface-level gestures of inclusion.
The concept is centred around a transparent box, which symbolises these intangible yet prevalent societal constraints while also highlighting the way queer identities are often placed on display, whether through superficial inclusion in capitalist advertising or dehumanising portrayals in state propaganda. Besides addressing the challenges faced by queer individuals in asserting their identity, the series also celebrates their inherent strength, beauty, and authenticity.
The plastic wrapping refers to our home country’s, Hungary’s, series of legislative attacks on LGBTQIA+ rights over the past five years: forcing bookstores to seal LGBTQIA+ themed books in plastic, banning the discussion of LGBTQIA+ topics in educational settings, and most recently, banning Budapest Pride.
A queer Hungarian journalist wearing looks that blend strong feminine and masculine elements by emerging Hungarian designers feels like a particularly meaningful way to tell this story.
Creative Director & Photographer: Eszter Vujosevic @eszter_vjsvc // Makeup Artist: Zsófia Albert @albertzsofi_makeup // Hair Stylist: Franciska Dalma Enyingi @franciskadalma // Wardrobe Stylist: Betty Berczeli @bettyberczeli_ // Model: Krisztián Szécsi @szecsik
Wardrobe Look 1: White top: Victoria Wang (@victoriawang.official), Black shorts: thrifted and upcycled by the stylist, Shoes: stylist’s own, Socks: upcycled by the stylist // Look 2: Black vest top and skirt: Victoria Wang (@victoriawang.official), Shoes: stylist’s own // Look 3: Skirt: Kinga Csorba (@csorbakinga), Black cowboy boots: model’s own, Necklaces: thrifted // Look 4: Long Sleeve Top: Kinga Csorba (@csorbakinga), Jeans: Suit for Sunday (@suitforsunday) // Necklaces & Suit with ties : thrifted or upcycled by the stylist
