Shop queer-owned!
Austin has no shortage of eclectic shops for everything you could possibly want, and TBH it can be a little overwhelming to sort through. Luckily, there are several badass LGBTQ+ small business owners that have the market cornered in everything from vampire oddities to sex toys and gear. So whether you're looking for a new taxidermy rabbit or just a simple vintage outfit, we've got you covered with this Queer Guide to Shopping in Austin.
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photo via instagram
Online / Around Austin
You Look Nice Today is a t-shirt company created by local queer artist (and bartender at Hotel Vegas!) Jackson Montgomery Schwartz. In 2023, they decided to put together their love of conceptualizing shirts, designing, marketing, and creating fun-to-look-at brand content to create this brand. Jackson is always making new shirts, so when you follow You Look Nice Today, you won't be seeing the same content twice. Also, proceeds for different shirts go to local nonprofits like Equality Texas and Children's Advocacy Center. Browse and pick out your new shirt here.
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photo via instagram
3016 Guadalupe St
We love vintage shopping, especially at Never Knew, a queer-owned vintage shop just north of the UT campus. They are constantly updating their inventory, and even posting photos of new arrivals on their Instagram to keep shoppers in the loop. Whatever look you're going for, stop by Never Knew and leave with some new outfits.
For more vintage shops in Austin, click here.
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photo via facebook
2008 S 1st St
Package has been a cornerstone of ATX queer culture for over 30 years. They joined the scene in the 90's as an adult video shop, and have now grown to become a modern, edgy, fashion boutique with adult toys and novelties. They're known for their knowledgeable, helpful and friendly staff, creating the best adult retail experience possible.
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photo via facebook
Online / Around Austin
More of an online shopper but still want to support local queer-owned businesses? Shop at Gusto! They specialize in soft t-shirts with original Texas designs. Each shirt is designed and screen printed in their small women-owned, local Austin print shop. The owner Kelli and her wife Amy started Gusto in 2016, and have rapidly expanded since then, now also making stickers, drinkware, hats, bags, can coolers, and laser engraved wood and leather products.
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Photo via Instagram
1006 S. 1st St
Perhaps the most unique spot on our list is The Glass Coffin, which is Austin's go-to shop for all things occult. They have skulls, books, statues, taxidermy, jewelry, and more. You can choose to shop their online store; or, if you want to peruse their selection, they're currently open everyday but Tuesdays, from 12pm - 7pm.
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Photo via Facebook
2110 S Lamar Blvd Suite E
This queer-owned CBD store was voted #1 in Austin - a huge feat for a city that is crawling with CBD stores these days. The staff here is knowledgeable and eager to help, so whether you're a first-time CBD-er or a seasoned pro looking for edibles, flower, and more, MaryJae on South Lamar is the spot for you.
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Photo via Instagram
1301 Chicon St #102
7601 S Congress Ave
Paws on Chicon is a cute little pet shop on the eastside, as well as in South Austin, that has everything you could possibly need for your little furry friend: dog food, cat food, treats, toys, shampoo... FROYO. Yes, they have doggie froyo. So if you're wanting to win best owner of the year in your dog's eyes (as if you haven't already), head over to Paws on Chicon for a sweet treat.
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1902 E 12th St
A favorite in the LGBTQ+ small business scene, The Little Gay Shop recently opened their new location and offers a variety of queer artwork and merch from artists and creators around the world. They also share their storefront with one of our favorites, Redeemer Small Batch, a woman-owned CBD provisioner based out of Austin.
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Photo via Jacoby's
3235 E Cesar Chavez St
Connected to the Southern comfort food restaurant favorite is Jacoby's Mercantile, a neighborhood market offering everything from artisan food to vintage goods. So while we love HEB, we can't pass up an opportunity to even buy our groceries from a queer-owned business. And okay, maybe some cute jewelry while we're there.
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Photo via Q Toys
Online Store
Can't forget the sex toys on a shopping trip, right? Although this Burnet staple unfortunately closed their doors, you can shop their online store for all things adult goods. You can get free shipping on all orders over $35, which just means you should definitely try out a few things or more. It's in the name of a good deal!
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Photo via Pride Socks
7801 N Lamar Blvd f33
Cute ass socks are a downright game changer. Everybody knows that. Whether you're planning out your 'fit for next year's pride (sigh) or you're just looking for some cozy knee-highs to lounge around the house in, Pride Socks has you covered. We recommend one of their cute crop tops to go along with it, but hey, that's just us.
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Photo via Instagram
Depop / 5305 Bolm Rd.
This queer-owned vintage superpower is one of our favorites in town. They have both a virtual Depop store (that we could spend hours scrolling through) as well as in-person selection at Revival Vintage. Pickup is free if you live in Austin, which means you can skip the normal wait after you impulse buy that vintage jumper on Depop.
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Photo via Facebook
2605 E Cesar Chavez St.
Gear ye, gear ye! This eastside shop has all the harness, gags, and undies you could possibly think of. On a trip to Sir Rat, you'll find fetish attire, lube, toys, whips, and probably anything else you could dream up. You can shop online or head over to their location on East 6th; they're currently letting 3 shoppers in at a time.
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Team Jemini Designs via Instagram
Online Marketplace
Our favorite womxn-centered marketplace has gone online! Once a month, Frida Friday hosts their market virtually over a weekend where they highlight all of their lovely vendors, from clothing to jewelry to art, and you can easily scroll through and support these local badasses.
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Did we miss a cool shop?
