Pedro Pascal and other celebs Sets Fashion on Fire with “Protect the Dolls” Statement Tee
In 2025, the fashion world witnessed a powerful intersection of style and activism with the emergence of the "Protect the Dolls" T-shirt. Designed by American fashion designer Conner Ives, the shirt quickly became a symbol of solidarity with the transgender community, particularly trans women, amid escalating political tensions and legislative challenges.
The Designer: Conner Ives
Conner Ives, known for his innovative designs and commitment to social causes, introduced the "Protect the Dolls" T-shirt during his Autumn-Winter 2025 collection at London Fashion Week. The phrase "Protect the Dolls" draws from 1980s ballroom culture, where "dolls" is an affectionate term for trans women. Ives, deeply influenced by the support and inspiration he received from trans women in his life and career, aimed to create a piece that was both a fashion statement and a call to action. He stated, "I wouldn’t be here right now if it wasn’t for the dolls".
A Statement Resurfaces Amid Political Backdrop
The T-shirt's resurgence in popularity coincided with renewed political debates surrounding transgender rights. Notably, former President Donald Trump's administration had implemented policies that many viewed as detrimental to the LGBTQ+ community, including restrictions on gender-affirming healthcare and military service for trans individuals. In response, Ives's T-shirt served as both a protest and a beacon of support for those affected.
The shirt's message gained further traction following a controversial U.S. Supreme Court ruling that excluded transgender women from the Equality Act's definition of "women," effectively denying them certain legal protections . This legal development intensified the shirt's symbolism, transforming it into a rallying cry for trans rights advocates.
Celebrity Endorsements Amplify the Message
High-profile celebrities played a significant role in amplifying the T-shirt's message. Actor Pedro Pascal, whose sister Lux is a transgender woman, donned the shirt at the premiere of Marvel’s "Thunderbolts," making a poignant statement of support . Singer Troye Sivan wore it during his Coachella 2025 performance, while other celebrities like Tilda Swinton, Addison Rae, and Tate McRae were also spotted wearing the shirt.
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These endorsements not only brought widespread attention to the cause but also led to a surge in sales. Within weeks, thousands of shirts were sold, raising significant funds for Trans Lifeline, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting transgender individuals according to The Guardian.
Fashion as a Vehicle for Social Change
The "Protect the Dolls" T-shirt exemplifies how fashion can transcend aesthetics to become a powerful tool for social advocacy. By merging design with activism, Conner Ives has highlighted the role of the fashion industry in addressing and responding to societal issues. As debates over transgender rights continue, such initiatives underscore the importance of visibility, support, and solidarity within and beyond the fashion community
Conclusion
When celebrities like Pedro Pascal and Troye Sivan step out wearing the “Protect the Dolls” T-shirt, they’re doing more than making a fashion statement they’re planting a flag. In a time when the Supreme Court has taken a step back from fully protecting trans rights, these public figures are sending a powerful message: marginalized communities are not alone. Their visibility and solidarity push back against harmful narratives and show that real cultural leadership doesn’t always come from the bench sometimes, it comes from a red carpet.
