Bustle: 20 AAPI-Owned Fashion Brands To Support Today & Always
The month of May marks Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month, a time dedicated to celebrating the AAPI community and its countless contributions to society. The Asian community has been severely impacted by racism and anti-Asian sentiments, particularly in recent years. Supporting Asian American owned brands not only shows solidarity, but many brands are donating proceeds to organizations like the W.O.W. Project and Heart of Dinner.
Newly released data from the group Stop AAPI Hate revealed that nearly 10,905 hate incidents were reported between March 2020 and December 2021, with 57.5% occurring in 2021. The data also shows that women have reported twice as many anti-Asian hate incidents as men, illustrating the disproportionate toll anti-Asian sentiment is taking on Asian women. The mass shooting that took place in Atlanta — in which six of the eight victims were Asian women — is just one tragic example of hate crime targeting this community.
But allies are coming together to combat this wave of violence. Activists and artists are working in unison to create merchandise in an effort to support Chinatowns in major cities across the country. There are several ways you can show support for the AAPI community, too. For starters, stop racist remarks and comments when you hear them, whether that’s on social media or IRL. You can also sign up for a free bystander intervention course that will equip you with the necessary tools to de-escalate harassment and hopefully prevent violence.
Last but not least, you can shop from AAPI-owned businesses in your local community and online. Ahead, you’ll find 20 AAPI-owned fashion brands that you should support today and everyday.
We only include products that have been independently selected by Bustle’s editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
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LEZÉ
This sustainable fashion brand uses recycled fishing nets to create their super soft workwear staples. The founders, who prefer PJs to stiff pantsuits, design professional staples that look and feel like a happy medium between the two.
