Leyna Bloom Models VENOMISS Pride Capsule
Pride

Leyna Bloom Models VENOMISS Pride Capsule

New York City artisanal streetwear brand VENOMISS has always been about empowerment. Co-founders designer Romina Cenisio and stylist Hayley Pisaturo began their fashion collection with the mindset of allowing women to feel "sexy, confident, and like a boss." But for their capsule pride collection, the co-founders tell PAPER that they are catering to the whole spectrum of gender identities "to celebrate all the LGBTQ people not only in [their] lives, but around the world."

Related | Kehlani: the Softer Side of Savage

"We wanted to keep it simple but fab, making the rainbow in our classic crystal logo graphic, and we're offering it on a tank, hoodie, and tee." And, as always, the garments — which are made by hand — can be cropped (or not) to your heart's desire.

Leyna Bloom in VENOMISS

All proceeds from the collection go to New Alternatives NYC, a non-profit for homeless LGBTQIA youth in the city. "This cause is super important to us — no youth should ever have to deal with being homeless for being who they are, especially at a time when life is already so confusing," the co-founders told PAPER.

The brand believes that fashion labels have the power to influence many people, and that it's important for them to participate in pride month. "Doing this will hopefully raise awareness to the fact 40% of homeless NYC youth are LBGTQ and remind those of us that are fortunate to have a home and a support group, that not all people are that lucky, and we should do what we can to volunteer or donate!"


Trans model of color Leyna Bloom is the face of the capsule collection and supports the cause VENOMISS is advocating for. After moving from Chicago, Bloom found herself homeless, walking the streets of New York City at the age of seventeen. Today, she's traveling the world and walking runways at New York Fashion Week.

To purchase VENOMISS' pride capsule, visit venomissnyc.com, and follow the brand on Instagram.

Model: Leyna Bloom
Photography: Elvin Tavarez
Makeup: Maggie Mondanile

Fashion

Runway Legend Omahyra Mota Feels Stronger Than Ever

Story by Mickey Boardman / Photography by 91 Rules / Creative direction by Paul Bui / Styling by Gabriel Held / Makeup by Kento Utsubo / Hair by Ryuta Sayama