In a striking fusion of fashion and activism, the dating app Grindr has launched the world's first fashion collection created from the wool of so-called 'gay sheep'. The groundbreaking 'I Wool Survive' line debuted at a unique community-driven fashion show in New York City on 13 November 2025.
The Science and Story Behind the Wool
The collection is the brainchild of American celebrity designer Michael Schmidt and the German non-profit Rainbow Wool. This farm, led by Farmer Michael Stücke, protects rams that show a preference for same-sex partners, animals that would otherwise be sent to slaughter due to their lack of interest in breeding with ewes.
But how can a sheep be 'gay'? The concept is backed by scientific research. Charles Roselli, a professor at Oregon Health & Science University, published a 2020 research paper studying sexual preferences in rams. His work suggests that approximately 8% of rams prefer same-sex partners. With a global ram population of 90 to 130 million, this means between 7.2 and 10.3 million rams could be gay or bisexual.
Fashion with a Global Mission
This initiative is far more than a publicity stunt; it's a direct response to global human rights issues. Rainbow Wool's ethos is 'Wool with an impact', using proceeds to support queer projects in countries where it is dangerous to be LGBTQ+.
All sales from the collection, which includes items like hats and shoelaces, go directly to two charity partners: LSVD+, Germany's largest queer rights organisation, and the Hirschfeld Eddy Foundation, which raises awareness of lethal threats facing queer people. This is critically important, as in 12 countries being gay is punishable by death, and it is criminalised in a further 38 nations.
A Powerful Statement from Creatives
Designer Michael Schmidt, who has worked with stars like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift, stated it was a 'pleasure' to create a light-hearted collection addressing a serious topic. He added, 'The mistreatment of animals that exhibit same-sex attraction is a painful reminder of the prejudice that continues to affect LGBT communities worldwide.'
Grindr, which has roughly 13 million active users, has pledged to continue supporting Rainbow Wool's mission throughout 2026. Select pieces from the collection will be auctioned to support global LGBTQIA+ initiatives.
Tristan Pineiro, SVP of Marketing & Communications at Grindr, commented, 'Rainbow Wool’s story mirrors the experience of so many LGBTQ+ people, cast aside for being different, yet thriving through community.' This project powerfully illustrates that homosexuality is a natural part of the animal kingdom, challenging the damaging notion that being gay is a choice.
