In honor of Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month we would like to spotlight some of our industry’s Asian and Pacific Islander-owned and founded brands. These AAPI individuals have made significant and often groundbreaking contributions to the world of fashion, each adding diversity, their cultural heritage and their creative genius. Here are some of our fav AAPI fashion designers:
American-born of Chinese heritage, fashion designer Vera Wang holding her Princess fragrance (Image credit: @VeraWang) and wedding dress 2025 (Image credit: CamilliaBridalShop.com)
Vera Wang: Perhaps one of the most recognizable names, Vera Wang is renowned for her elegant and sophisticated bridal wear and ready-to-wear collections. Her designs are characterized by their modern silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and meticulous attention to detail. Wang’s influence extends beyond bridal fashion to ready-to-wear, accessories, fragrances, and home goods, making her a true icon in the industry.
Anna Sui collection SS 2025 (Image credit Vogue.com) and Chinese-American fashion designer Anna Sui (Image credit Phoenix Art Museum).
FUN FACT:
In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Mattel released their Anna Sui, Inspiring Women Barbie doll. (Image credit: CFDA.com)
Anna Sui: Born in Detroit to second generation Chinese parents, she is known for her bohemian, rock-and-roll, and vintage-inspired aesthetics. Sui’s designs are colorful, eclectic, and full of personality and her runway shows are always highly anticipated for their theatrical flair and celebration of individuality. Sui has also successfully expanded into cosmetics and fragrances, further cementing her status as a design powerhouse.
Designer Phillip Lim and an outfit from his 3.1 Phillip Lim SS 2025 collection. (Image credit: PhillipLim.com)
Phillip Lim: He was born in Thailand to Chinese parents who immigrated to the United States from Cambodia during the Cambodian genocide. Co-founder of the brand 3.1 Phillip Lim, this designer is celebrated for his effortlessly chic and contemporary ready-to-wear collections. His designs often blend sophistication with a youthful sensibility, focusing on clean lines, quality materials, and wearable elegance. Lim has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following for his modern approach to fashion.
Prabal Gurung: A Nepalese-American designer, Prabal Gurung is known for his vibrant colors, bold prints, and socially conscious approach to fashion. His designs often celebrate diversity and inclusivity, and he is a vocal advocate for important social and political issues within the fashion industry.
