Ben 4 All : Cory Wade

For global pride this year we sat down with a series of artists and influencers from the LGBTQIA+ community to discuss what pride means to them. 

Our second interview is with acclaimed model and musician, Cory Wade.

What is your name?

Cory Wade

Where are you currently based?

New York City

Cory is pictured here wearing the Fishtail Parka, Turtleneck Jersey Stripe Top, and Rust Slim Stretch Chinos.

How would you describe your style?

I think of my style as free and fluid streetwear that can change based on how I’m feeling. There are no rules. I enjoy exercising my complete control over how I want to present myself to the world. That power excites me. I like to play with different silhouettes and textures to always try and make my style feel new. I don’t like keeping things the same for too long. I try not to bore myself. To me, bold and unique choices are what make my personal style the most fun to play with.

Tell us in your own words what Pride means to you.

Pride is self acceptance at the utmost.. it's a deep understanding of one’s truest self. It’s self love! We deserve pride underneath it all. Under the flesh we hide behind we are truly something magical. Being proud of who we are is a gateway to this profound awareness about ourselves. Pride is our consciousness to our own dignity. No matter who you are, where you come from or what you look like, you are valid in this life and pride is the reminder because there are so many forces out there seeking to make people feel otherwise. This makes pride an essential practice that needs to be nurtured always.

What message would you give to LGBTQ youth?

See more from Cory on Instagram.