Wilson Cruz Stars in John Varvatos' 'Visual Celebration' of Pride

Photography by Mary Ellen Matthews.

Just in time for WorldPride next weekend, on the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots of 1969 in New York City, the fashion label John Varvatos has launched their "visual celebration" of Pride campaign.

Shot by the legendary photographer Mary Ellen Matthews, whose work you recognize from the promotional images of Saturday Night Live, the John Varvatos team shot influencers and friends of the brand for the campaign.

Photography by Mary Ellen Matthews.

"I was honored to be asked to collaborate with John Varvatos and his creative team on the Pride Week campaign," said Matthews. "It's especially resonant for me as I'm surrounded by dear friends and loved ones, both in my professional and personal life, who are in the LGBTQI community. It's important to show up for them and celebrate this historic turning point in time. Stonewall was 50 years ago, and there's been a lot of progress, but there's still a long way to go."

"My aim is to bring out that special spark in each subject--to give them each a chance to shine their inner light."

Photography by Mary Ellen Matthews.

The two t-shirts they created for Pride sell for $78 and the single pride tank sells for $68, with 30% of the proceeds being donated to amfAR.

To further commemorate the anniversary, all NYC John Varvatos stores will display AIDS quilts honoring those who have lost their lives to the AIDS pandemic. John Varvatos and Mary Ellen Matthews have created a visual campaign with friends of the brand to celebrate the season.

Photography by Mary Ellen Matthews.

The campaign features iconic thirst traps like Keoni Hudoba, Wilson Cruz, Benito Skinner, Brandon Osorio, and Terrell and Jarius Joseph.

"We had a lot of fun dancing playing with props, or babies, that were representative to each person," said Matthews. "We got everyone up an boogying over the 2 day shoot! Really had an amazing time with each and every person."