Why gender-neutral school uniform collection by Taiwanese designer is so important – for boys, girls, and everyone in between

Taiwanese designer Angus Chiang has released a gender-neutral school uniform collection – including a sport trench coat called a ‘Stroodie’, and a ‘shirtskirt’

Interest is growing, and a student who modelled the uniforms at the launch says it’s important people of all ages can freely express themselves

Reading Time:2 minutes

Taiwanese contemporary menswear designer Angus Chiang has released a school uniform collection that is entirely gender-neutral, with pieces that include a “shirtskirt”.

Published: 7:15am, 21 Oct 2020Updated: 8:17pm, 2 Nov 2020

Taiwan has a reputation in East Asia as a leader on LGBT rights. Last year, it became the first place in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage, and its LGBT Pride parade – held every year in the capital city, Taipei – is one of the largest in the region.

That might not sound like a big deal but, considering the conservative attitudes that still exist in many parts of Asia, it’s a progressive step. In Malaysia, same-sex acts are illegal, while in Singapore gay sex between men can result in two years of jail time under a law that is rarely enforced. In Hong Kong, same-sex marriages are not recognised.

A school in Taiwan is playing its part by providing lessons on diversity and inclusion. Last year, New Taipei Municipal Banqiao Senior High School gave approval for boys and men to wear skirts to school in an effort to promote gender equality.

“It is to boost the students’ autonomy in choosing their uniforms while respecting their rights,” the school said at the time.

It comes as no surprise, then, that Taiwanese menswear designer Angus Chiang has released an entirely gender-neutral school uniform collection.