Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Rideout

Hi Erin, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

Dyke Dyes was born out of total COVID boredom. Emily started experimenting with bleach and tie dying most of her wardrobe. Finally, I, Erin, suggested that she start dying other clothing and start an Etsy shop so that she didn’t end up with a full wardrobe of exclusively tie dye. We truly didn’t expect anything to come of this little venture, but we quickly realized that people were connecting with our mission to upcycle as much as possible, to be a wholly size inclusive brand, and to create representation for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

We have definitely encountered some challenges along the way. Neither of us has a background in business, website design, or marketing which means we have had to learn as we go. One of the biggest hurdles we encountered was registering as an LLC with the state. Our application was initially rejected because our name was deemed derogatory, but we knew that the name of our business was essential to the brand we were hoping to build. We then had to research to find other businesses registered across the US that use the word “dyke” in their name; this ultimately ended up being enough to back up our claim that we were not using the word with any sort of negative connotation.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

We take thrifted clothing and hand dye each item to breathe new life into something that may otherwise end up in a landfill. Alongside being an inclusive brand, we also strive to be as sustainable as possible. We currently achieve this primarily by purchasing (mostly) thrifted clothing as opposed to buying everything brand new.

We’d like to think we’re known for being a visible queer brand. It’s important to us to provide that representation. We also hope we’re known for being size inclusive. It is equally important for us to carry a wide range of sizes so anyone who shops our website or walks into our tent at an event can find something that they feel comfortable and confident in. We want to encourage people to be their most authentic selves. We believe that change and transformation are some of the most positive attributes human beings possess, and we want that to reflect in our clothing. Whether you’re looking for a mental, physical, or spiritual shift, the Dyke Dyes brand stands as a reminder that these changes are right at your fingertips if you’re willing to let them in.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Dykedyesllc.com
• Instagram: Dykedyes
• Facebook: Dyke Dyes