For centuries, the people of the Red ‘X’ felt it vital to preserve accounts of our sexual heroes, moments and places. Mostly, they believed that the struggle for sexual freedom was a battle against oppressive, controlling forces.
KEEPER’S NOTES: “Hands on hips, pout on lips.”
A staple of any wardrobe, this is a classic monochrome t-shirt with a twist. Hand-printed using the iconic London street font, this stylish top pays homage to the sexual histories of Piccadilly.
100% of profits from our Dilly Boys t-shirts are donated to Bishopsgate Institute.
About the Dilly Boys
Piccadilly is on the fringes of Soho, during the 20th century it became popularly known as the Dilly. The rent boys that plied their trade here were therefore known as Dilly boys.
Many of these young sex workers were extremely vulnerable and took drugs to cope with the harsh realities of their life. They were treated as socially despised outlaws.
Sometimes, the term was used as a warning to boys who did not behave themselves – ‘otherwise, you’ll be sent up the Dilly!‘
The demise of the Dilly trade occurred when it was possible to book escorts online.
The infamous Dilly Boys have inspired songs by the Rolling Stones, Morrissey, and Libertines.
KEEPER’S NOTES: You decide if you are an objector or the objectified.
Individually printed by the hand of The Keeper, this unique t-shirt’s Eighteenth-century ransom-style lettering gives an Illicit edge. An unusual twist on a wardrobe essential.
When wearing, please spare a thought for the people of the Red ‘X’ and all those sexual heroes who risked life and limb to provide us with the sexual liberties we enjoy today.
KEEPER’S NOTES: Show the world what you stand for.
Each bag is individually hand-printed by The Keeper, although they may differ in look, all will give you the appearance of a sexual mutineer.
When wearing, please spare a thought for the people of the Red ‘X’ and all those sexual heroes who risked life and limb to provide us with the sexual liberties we enjoy today.