QUEST10NS: Bowtie Designer, Jack Jackson

Jack Jackson designs bowties. In fact, they (the pronoun Jack prefers) design really awesome, whimsical bowties under the label Alljackedup, a company they founded which based in Toronto. In celebration of Transgender Awareness Week (November 14 - 20), Jack has created a limited edition line of ties (photo below, right) featuring the names of some personal trans heroes like actress Laverne Cox, adult film star Buck Angel, and model Andreja Pejic, with half of the week’s proceeds going to Supporting Our Youth (SOY), a Toronto-based group that supports gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, transsexual and intersex youth.

Where did you go on your last trip?
In June, I went to show my new line of self tie bow ties at a queer fashion show in San Francisco. 

What was your favorite memory from it?
Collaborating with Thúy from Thúy Custom Clothier, and meeting other queer or trans owned small businesses providing a much needed service to the gender non-conforming, trans-masculine and queer community.

How many bowties do you normally pack for a one week trip?
I tend to have a favorite and can’t wear anything else, so usually only just the one.

Which of your bowties would be most appropriate in Thailand?
Having never been to Thailand, I really couldn’t say, but off the top of my head I’m going to run with ‘Ties that Bind’ (photo above, left).

Which one of your trans heroes would you most want to take on a trans-continental road trip?
Such a hard question! I think I’d like to take Amos Mac – I’ve long been an admirer of his work, his photography, fashion and style, not to mention the work he does with Original Plumbing. We would work on a photography series exploring queer fashion across America. I might also have a slight crush on him.

Where’s the best place to grab a meal in Toronto?
I haven’t ventured too far from my neighborhood – I love Tabule which serves middle eastern cuisine on Queen East, just a 10 minute walk from home. The atmosphere is really chill, the food is amazing and the service spot on.

Favorite local hidden gem?
Hanlan’s ‘clothing optional’ beach on Toronto Islands. Enough said.

Favorite local free thing to do?
In the summer, I love going to Cherry Beach – it’s a dog mecca. It’s five minutes from my home. I can cool off by the lake, amongst nature whilst being surrounded by dogs. It reminds me of home. I love being by the water and feel so damn lucky to have it at my doorstep in the middle of a big vibrant city.

Best dog-friendly city you’ve visited?
Actually, so far it’s Toronto. I love it that I can take my boy on the streetcar and the subway. He’s also allowed in most shops. I might get a smaller dog next time so I can pick him up and take him absolutely everywhere with me.

Where do you plan to go on your next adventure?
I’ve always wanted to go to Berlin – I’ve heard it’s like San Francisco, except more queer. I loved San Francisco, it was the first place that ever felt like home. I think I’ll feel at home in Berlin too.