by Ray Rico
Since 2016, the Blue Suede Sisters, Memphis’ chapter of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, have been bringing joy, visibility, and radical affirmation to the LGBTQ+ community. Their gender-affirming closet—the Be-You-tique—is more than a clothing distribution project. It’s a space where trans and gender-expansive people explore identities, learn new skills, and feel celebrated.
“The ‘Sistery’ of our organization goes back to the AIDS crisis,” says Sister Kat Ion. “In 1979, a group of gay men borrowed habits from a Midwestern Catholic church while producing ‘The Sound of Music.’ They later donned habits in San Francisco and handed out flowers at the beach—quite the sight! From there grew the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, providing resources and safe spaces during the HIV/AIDS epidemic.”
The Memphis chapter, Abbey of Two Kings, honors local royalty—Elvis Presley and BB King—and requires blue suede shoes in formal wear. Members give back to the community through projects like mask distribution during COVID, children’s stories, museum exhibits, and the Be-You-tique.
The Be-You-tique emerged during a surge of anti-trans legislation in Tennessee in 2023. “We saw these laws for what they were—attacks on basic human dignity,” Kat Ion says. The bi-annual event helps participants measure and shop for clothing safely, gain confidence, and experiment with style in a supportive, affirming environment.
One of the most memorable impacts has been on youth. “A pair of best friends, shy at first, left the first event glowing. Their mom said, ‘Clothes shopping was FINALLY fun!’ Seeing young people empowered to explore their identities freely is everything we hoped for,” Kat Ion reflects.
Despite logistical challenges—donation storage, venue arrangements, and volunteer coordination—the Be-You-tique continues to grow. “The generosity of the MidSouth is incredible,” Kat Ion says. Storage is now centralized in a climate-controlled unit, and First Congo has graciously provided event space when needed.
The Sisters’ ministry extends beyond clothing. “It’s hard to look like a clown and not captivate those around you,” Kat Ion says. “When we manifest, we’re saying our assigned identity at birth doesn’t define how we present. Seeing us live authentically encourages others to do the same.”
The next Winter Be-You-tique is scheduled for December. Registration links will be shared in November, with education, styling support, and clothing access as always. Donations of tops, pants, skirts, outerwear, and formal wear are welcome; undergarments and shoes are not accepted. Volunteers and partnerships are encouraged to sustain this free, volunteer-led event.
Focus Magazine has been a vital ally. “Nothing spreads joy and eradicates shame like a journalist highlighting queer excellence,” Kat Ion notes.
The Blue Suede Sisters continue transforming visibility and affirmation into tangible support for Memphis’ LGBTQ+ community—one outfit, and one empowered individual, at a time.
“As a tailor, I bring the expertise of fit and function.
Not only do I do on the spot alterations for our clients, I also teach them how to measure their bodies and clothing. My favorite memories of this event are when clients return. There are some teens that come every time and we’ve seen them grow up. “
— Kat Ferris, Master Tailor
“I’m a tailor by trade with my own Alterations and Sewing Education business, Cari’s Closet. We specialize in helping folks feel confident in their clothes through alterations and sewing education. We aim to keep clothes in your closet and out of the landfill. During the Closet, I work with clients to help decide which items are best for them based on their desired sense of style and alterations required. I also make quick alterations on clothes so they can walk out with ready-to-wear pieces My favorite memory is watching a client’s kid help them pick out accessories for the PERFECT dress! The excitement from them both was really fantastic and I definitely felt grateful to be in the room. “
—— Cari Harris
“I have 3 years of experience in costume design and 5 years in alterations. Through my work in these areas, I’ve developed the ability to style individuals in a way that suits them best and ensures their comfort. One of my favorite memories is from my first day on the job. I felt very comfortable and had a great time seeing everyone leave happy. “
— Kayla Dowdy
“Seeing one of my clients in an Instagram post from a local LGBTQIA+ event wearing a pink, glitzy dress I helped them find while styling (definitely not your average first pick, but I knew they could pull it off) was such a joy. They frolicked in it while trying it on—it was so wholesome. Then, to have them randomly pop up in my algorithm and see the dress find its perfect match as well—they were glowing and radiant at the front of the crowd. It truly made my heart so happy and proud. It’s one of my sweetest full-circle memories from styling at these events, and even in my styling career as a whole. One of the many reasons I’m so grateful I met the Blue Suede Sisters. “
— Bianca Rosa George
GET INVOLVED
Donations, volunteering, and partnership inquiries:
bluesuedesisters.org
Email: info@bluesuedesisters.org
