Sewing with Pride: LGBTQ+ contestants shine on The Great British Sewing Bee
– 2 min read
There’s something quietly radical about a sewing machine humming under the hands of someone who’s never quite fit the mould. The Great British Sewing Bee, long celebrated for its warmth, creativity, and inclusivity, continues to stitch LGBTQ+ representation into the very fabric of its storytelling — and this year’s series is no exception.
Among the 2025 cohort, one contestant in particular has captured the hearts of viewers: Kit, a 24-year-old digital marketer from Manchester. Identifying as non-binary and using they/them pronouns, Kit brings a bold, expressive energy to the sewing room. Their love of “awful” fabrics — the louder, the better — is matched only by their flair for transformation. What began as a childhood rebellion (teaching themselves to sew after their mum taught their sister sock puppets) has blossomed into a weekly ritual of garment-making and self-expression.
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Kit’s presence on the show is more than just a personal triumph; it’s a quiet revolution. In a world where gender norms still dominate fashion, Kit’s unapologetic creativity challenges the binary with every stitch. Their garments often blur lines, play with silhouettes, and celebrate queerness in ways that feel both joyful and defiant.
While Sewing Bee has never made a song and dance about its diversity, it’s precisely this understated approach that makes it so powerful. LGBTQ+ contestants are not tokenised or singled out — they’re simply part of the tapestry. Past seasons have featured a range of queer voices, from drag artists to gay dads, each bringing their own stories, styles, and sewing philosophies.
This year, Kit’s journey is particularly resonant. In a time when trans and non-binary people face increasing scrutiny and hostility in public discourse, seeing someone like Kit thrive in a supportive, affirming environment is quietly radical. It’s a reminder that representation doesn’t always need to shout — sometimes, it just needs to show up, week after week, with a needle, thread, and a bit of sparkle.
As the competition unfolds, Kit’s designs continue to impress the judges — and inspire viewers. But win or lose, their impact is already stitched into the show’s legacy. In the gentle, generous world of The Great British Sewing Bee, queerness isn’t a subplot. It’s part of the pattern.
