NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Grindr, the Global Gayborhood in your pocket known for sparking connections worldwide, is bringing its mission to life in an entirely new way: uniting a farm of gay sheep, a legendary designer, and the shared belief in the power of community. In its latest bold move, Grindr has brought together Rainbow Wool, a nonprofit organization and farm that rescues gay sheep, with acclaimed artist and designer Michael Schmidt to debut the world’s first truly gay fashion collection.
“At Grindr, connection has always been our core,” said Tristan Pineiro, SVP of Marketing & Communications at Grindr. “Rainbow Wool’s story mirrors the experience of so many LGBTQ+ people, cast aside for being different, yet thriving through community.”
This unexpected collaboration showcases what can happen when communities connect. Across worlds, borders, languages, and in-app chats, Grindr brought together Rainbow Wool’s powerful story with Schmidt’s iconic artistry to celebrate the resilience and creativity that define gay culture.
“At Grindr, connection has always been our core,” said Tristan Pineiro, SVP of Marketing & Communications at Grindr. “Rainbow Wool’s story mirrors the experience of so many LGBTQ+ people, cast aside for being different, yet thriving through community. Together, we’re proving that connection can transform exclusion into celebratory expression.”
With Michael Schmidt, whose designs have been worn by icons like Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and Cher, at the helm, I Wool Survive is a collection that brings gay history and archetypes to life through 36 handcrafted looks spun entirely from Rainbow Wool yarn. From Leathermen to Daddies, Sailors to Firefighters, each piece reimagines gay identity through artistry, humor, and pride.
“It’s been a pleasure to create this light-hearted collection of pieces that also address a very serious topic,” said Schmidt. “The mistreatment of animals that exhibit same-sex attraction is a painful reminder of the prejudice that continues to affect LGBT communities worldwide. Hopefully, by illustrating that homosexuality exists throughout the animal kingdom, we can help put to bed the false and damaging notion that being gay is a choice.”
Beyond the runway, Grindr will continue to support Rainbow Wool’s mission throughout 2026, spreading the message that connection, in all forms, can change everything. Select pieces from the I Wool Survive collection will be available for auction, supporting LGBTQ+ initiatives worldwide.
“Scientific studies have shown that around one in twelve rams naturally prefer other males, and while many of these animals are typically sent to slaughter, our farm offers them a different fate,” said farm owner and shepherd, Michael Stücke. “This collaboration with Grindr proves that being gay is part of nature itself, and I’m proud our sheep can help people see love and diversity in a new way. The wool from these rams isn’t just material, it’s a message spun from animals who live freely and are loved.”
