As Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month draws to a close, it’s important to remember that celebrating AAPI creatives, designers, and innovators doesn’t have to be limited to just one month. The contributions of these communities shape culture and commerce all year long. To honor this spirit, here are standout AAPI-owned fashion and beauty brands worth supporting beyond May.
Peter Do
Peter Do is renowned for his minimalist yet sensual silhouettes. His designs often incorporate classic structures enhanced with unique cutouts or sheer fabrics. By drawing on archival references and blending them with a modern aesthetic, Do consistently delivers collections that feel innovative and contemporary.
HommeGirls
Designer Thakoon Panichgul founded HommeGirls in 2019 as a zine, which has since evolved into a full publication and clothing label. With a reputation for sharp, well-tailored basics, HommeGirls delivers wardrobe staples like the perfect cotton poplin shirt. Panichgul’s design heritage shines through in every piece.
Yuhan Wang
Yuhan Wang’s work is known for its dreamy, feminine silhouettes rooted in traditional Chinese concepts of womanhood. Her designs manage to stay modern and subtly rebellious, presenting a delicate balance between softness and boldness without leaning into overtly girlish tropes.
PH5
PH5 reinvents knitwear with imaginative silhouettes, inventive patterns, and reversible pieces. Each design stands out as both original and functional, making the label a must-watch for anyone looking to refresh their wardrobe with cutting-edge knitwear.
Commission
Commission NYC successfully merges vintage aesthetics with contemporary sensibilities. Their collections embody a sense of nostalgia while remaining fresh and wearable. A standout piece? Their varsity blazer—a perfect mix of classic and current.
Find Me Now
Run by a mother-daughter team, Find Me Now offers chic, lasting wardrobe staples. Beyond just their Instagram-worthy visuals, their pieces are versatile and timeless. Each item is designed to make the wearer feel effortlessly put together.
Sandy Liang
Sandy Liang has built a beloved brand known for playful fleece jackets and signature bow accents. Drawing inspiration from her childhood in New York’s Chinatown and her grandmother, Liang infuses each collection with a personal, nostalgic charm.
Freja
Jenny Lei, the founder of Freja, launched her line of sleek handbags to meet the modern working woman’s needs. With refined, timeless designs—especially the striking East-West styles—Freja bags blend elegance with everyday functionality.
Grace Ling
Grace Ling transforms fashion into art. With a background in sculpture, she crafts runway pieces from unconventional materials, pushing the boundaries of design. Her work is bold, imaginative, and awe-inspiring.
Glow Recipe
Founded by Sarah Lee and Christine Chang, Glow Recipe redefines skincare with a fun and effective approach. Their Watermelon Juice Moisturizer and the dessert-inspired Glass Balms are skincare favorites that show serious products can still bring joy.
Then I Met You
Created by Charlotte Cho, a pioneer in K-beauty, Then I Met You offers meticulously crafted skincare. Her Cleansing Balm is a cult favorite for its luxurious texture and performance, while her Brightening Essence delivers noticeable radiance and smoothness.
UMA
Shrankhla Holecek founded UMA with the vision of luxury rooted in Ayurvedic wisdom. The brand emphasizes quality ingredients and artisanal processes. Their Magnesium Spray, for instance, has become a nighttime essential for those seeking relaxation and calm.
Private Policy
Private Policy delivers an intersection of streetwear and sophistication. Known for bold, inclusive designs, the brand places an emphasis on representation and thoughtful expression—making every collection more than just fashion, but a statement.
BONBONWHIMS
Clare Ngai’s BONBONWHIMS turns jewelry into a celebration of nostalgia and whimsy. With its Y2K-inspired aesthetic, the brand crafts bold, eye-catching pieces that feel playful, magical, and unmistakably modern.
YanYan Knits
YanYan Knits revitalizes knitwear with personality and flair. Known for unexpected color combinations and creative patterns, each piece feels cozy yet fashion-forward—a true embodiment of contemporary comfort wear.
Tank Air
Tank Air exudes effortless allure with minimalist, body-hugging designs. Their collections are a tribute to confident femininity, with pieces that feel as natural and empowering as a second skin.
These AAPI-owned brands span a spectrum of aesthetics, philosophies, and inspirations—but they all have one thing in common: visionary excellence. Supporting them not only champions diverse voices but also brings exceptional quality and creativity into your wardrobe and beauty routine.
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