Jamie Alexander is the father of a trans daughter, Ruby, who had trouble finding swimwear that fit her well. Frustrated with the lack of options in the market, Alexander launched Rubies, a company that sells form-fitting bras, underwear, and swimwear for trans girls. The slogan of the company is “Every girl deserves to shine.”
The swimwear and underwear offered by Rubies are designed to be comfortable, allowing trans girls to feel physically comfortable in their own skin. The company has sent out more than 10,000 packages to trans girls in over 40 countries. Alexander has also spoken on panels, guided employee resource groups, and provided advice to parents seeking to support their own trans children.
Rubies has collaborated with LGBTQ+ groups, most recently partnering with Alexander Switzer’s Affirming Wardrobe, a program that works with schools to supply gender-affirming clothing and undergarments to middle, high school, and college students.
Switzer, a trans man himself, praised the positive effects that the Affirming Wardrobe program has had on the trans students. These students have better attendance and even improved grades. Rubies is expanding its product line to grow with its customers, introducing a bra last year and working on creating other teen-centered undergarments.
While both founders have experienced backlash, they choose to focus on the positive impact that their work has on trans kids. They hope to expand their reach as much as possible, providing trans kids with what they need to succeed.
In an era where GOP legislators are seeking to limit trans kids’ freedom, Rubies and Affirming Wardrobe are a beacon of hope. They stand for inclusivity and joy, showing that every trans kid deserves to feel comfortable and happy in their own skin.