Vivian Wilson, a 21-year-old trans advocate who has gained visibility online, is launching a collaboration with Wildfang, a queer-owned clothing brand, as the face of a campaign celebrating name reclamation. The announcement comes roughly one month after Wilson’s birthday.
Reclaiming a Name
Wilson, who spent the past three years updating legal documents to reflect her name and gender identity and engaging on social media, emphasized the significance of a chosen name for many transgender individuals.
“For a lot of trans people, especially, there’s this sense of pride that goes along with your new name. It’s a reminder of who you are as a trans person,” Wilson told Out. “Obviously, not all trans people change their names. I know a lot of trans people that haven’t. But most of us tend to do so.”
She further explained the personal history associated with a chosen name. “For trans people who change their names, there’s a history to that name, right? Saying your name is kind of an actualization of your transness.”
Reflecting on her recent 21st birthday, Wilson described the past month as “spectacular,” noting exciting opportunities she has been able to pursue.
Wildfang Collaboration
The collaboration with Wildfang, dubbed “Vivian Wilson for Wildfang,” arose after the company noticed Wilson wearing their clothing in her TikTok videos. Wilson stated the partnership felt authentic as she genuinely uses their products. As part of the campaign, Wilson designed a special-edition t-shirt with the slogan, “Existing shouldn’t be revolutionary.” Wildfang has pledged to donate 100 percent of the profits from the shirt to The Trevor Project.
Career Aspirations
In a previous Teen Vogue cover story, Wilson expressed interest in modeling and Twitch streaming. When asked about the evolution of these career prospects, Wilson indicated she is still exploring various options.
“Well, seven months ago I thought I was going to be an English teacher. So, yeah, I’m still figuring it out,” Wilson said with a laugh.
She clarified her enjoyment of modeling and her intent to pursue it further, while also considering other avenues made possible by her platform, including acting, particularly voice acting. While acknowledging she might need lessons, Wilson expressed a long-term interest in appearing on the big screen.
Wilson highlighted her appreciation for the collaborative aspect of modeling, including working with the crew, lighting technicians, and photographers to bring a vision to life. She noted the sense of community on set.
Social Media Presence and Personality
Wilson’s online presence on platforms like TikTok, Threads, and Instagram reflects her confident yet vulnerable personality. Known for her humor and ability to engage in serious discussions, Wilson is portrayed as bright, funny, and genuinely curious about various aspects of art, culture, and history, including LGBTQ+ history.
Enthusiasm for “RuPaul’s Drag Race”
A dedicated fan of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Wilson possesses extensive knowledge of the show. She attended a premiere party for “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 10” in New York City, generating media attention. Wilson described the experience as one of the best nights of her life, expressing excitement about meeting queens she admires, including Kerri Colby. She recounted her surprise at learning the queens knew she was attending.
Wilson expressed her deep appreciation for drag as an art form and her support for local drag performers. One notable moment from the premiere party involved Wilson wearing a Bosco-branded tank top that read, “God’s favorite transsexual,” a garment she said she would cherish.
While expressing a past interest in doing drag, Wilson indicated that her desire has grown after interacting with “Drag Race” legends and teased potential future plans, acknowledging the skill and effort involved in drag artistry.
Representation and Message to Trans Youth
Wilson acknowledged the simultaneous progress and setbacks in queer and trans representation in mainstream media, noting increased visibility in modeling but ongoing challenges in film and television. She expressed hope for future improvement in representation.
Addressing trans youth, Wilson emphasized the existence of supportive communities and urged them to disregard negative opinions about their identity.
“There are people out there who will support you. I want you to know that and really embody it,” Wilson declared. “Don’t let other people’s negative opinions of who you are, your validity, or your queerness, affect your own perception of yourself. Because you are that bitch.”
She concluded by assuring trans youth of the existence of community and a positive future.
The Vivian Wilson for Wildfang collection is available for purchase on Wildfang.com.
