We understand the dress code for this award ceremony is somewhat unconventional and may not be 100% clear to everyone, and that gender itself is a complex, social phenomenon with many facets. We created this FAQ to help you contemplate your fanciest gender.

What is gender?

Nobody knows! Our best guess is that it is a complex social phenomenon that is both about how you perceive yourself and how you are perceived by others. It contains infinite possibility and is informed by culture, upbringing, and your own internal experience.

Per Sophie Lewis, gender diversity should be “lush, interesting, and pleasurable.”

What is fancy?

“Fancy” is extravagant. Maybe it’s even luxurious. It’s a little extra but in a way that makes you feel attractive, powerful, and/or fun, but decidedly yourself.

When in doubt, do too much. If you’re wondering if your outfit choice is too over the top, take it one step further. Wear an outfit that you really couldn’t wear anywhere else. Because it’s opulent, ungainly, or awkward. But that is a true expression of your fanciest gender. We believe in you.

Could you give me some examples of others’ fanciest genders?

Sure. Here is a list of genders we have discussed with other nominees:

• In-unit washer/dryer.
• Opulent LARPing.
• Buffy the Vampire Slayer extra.
• Business kid.
• Regal Sapphic Donkey and Shrek.
• Time-traveling folk witch.
• Jester.
• Trixie Mattel’s bird.
• 1990s interpretation of a medieval harlot.