Dyke Mart: Where Brighton’s creativity takes centre stage

Walking into Daltons Brighton during Dyke Mart felt less like entering a venue and more like stepping into a living, breathing statement. The room hummed with conversation, laughter and movement, each corner alive with colour, craft and confidence. Covered for Scene Magazine, Dyke Mart revealed itself not simply as a market, but as a space of visibility and connection.

At the centre of Dyke Mart is Edie, founder and co-organiser, whose vision shaped the event from the ground up. Dyke Mart began as a response to a gap, a need for a space that centred dyke identity without dilution or apology. Through persistence, collaboration and community trust, that idea became a packed room filled with independent traders, artists and makers. The result was an environment where creativity existed without compromise and identity required no explanation.

Each stall told its own story. Apparel, jewellery, prints, textiles and artwork filled the space, all carrying a sense of intention and care. Nothing felt mass-produced or detached from the maker behind it. Edie described the traders as multi-skilled creatives, often working across mediums and disciplines. That spirit echoed throughout the room, where experimentation and self-expression took priority over trend or polish.

Later in the evening, conversations continued with organisers Robynne and Jen, both deeply involved in shaping the atmosphere and direction of Dyke Mart. Organisation, representation and accessibility sat at the heart of the project. Dyke Mart exists to uplift LGBTQ+ makers and small businesses that often struggle to find space in mainstream markets, particularly those working outside conventional aesthetics.

Robynne spoke about showcasing work that challenges traditional fashion and craft norms. Medieval-inspired knitwear and upcycled designs created from reclaimed materials reflected a broader philosophy of sustainability, creativity and reinvention. Dyke Mart functioned not only as a marketplace but as a platform for work that refuses to conform.

Jen highlighted the importance of reclaiming the word “dyke” itself. Once used as a slur, the word now stands boldly at the centre of an event built on pride and visibility. Brighton carries a reputation for LGBTQ+ inclusivity, yet Dyke Mart demonstrates that visibility must be actively created and maintained. Spaces like this ensure that dyke identities remain seen, celebrated and heard.

As the evening drew on, conversations turned toward the future. Growth was discussed not in terms of scale, but sustainability. The aim remains simple: continue creating space, continue supporting LGBTQ+ makers, and continue showing up for community. Dyke Mart does not seek mainstream approval; authenticity remains the priority.

Leaving Dalton’s that night, it became clear that Dyke Mart represents more than a single event. Dyke Mart stands as proof that community-led spaces matter, not only for commerce, but for culture, connection and collective joy. In Brighton, dyke creativity is not hidden, diluted or sidelined. Dyke creativity is visible, thriving and very much here to stay.

Don't forget to follow Dyke Mart on their Instagram (@Dykemartbrighton) to stay connected with their future events.