By Matthew

I’m a member of Asian Crew Clothing, along with Hao-Kai Wu, Ryan Kwan, Kevin Han and Kevin Foo. I started this company because being Asian is cool.

In history classes, Asian Pacific American history is overlooked, and hardly even discussed. Our ancestors who moved here from their homeland faced hatred and were subject to hurtful stereotypes. Somehow, they managed to work hard, earning minimal wage to make their children’s lives better. They instilled in us a work ethic and discipline that has cultivated success. Yet some how, many Asian stereotypes still exist today and are exemplified in the media.

The stereotypes are not true and undermine hard work. For example, in high school, I took BC calculus and it was the hardest class I had ever taken. I struggled, and failed some exams throughout the year, but I worked hard and put the time and effort into learn everything I didn’t understand. By the end of the year I understood a majority of the material and received a 5 on the AP exam. There are people in the world who would think to themselves, “he got a 5 on BC calculus exam because he’s Asian”. For some reason, people think that Asians are born knowing how integrate and take derivatives. But the truth is, I worked just as hard as the rest of my peers, but few people would believe me.

So, we thought making cool shirts that inform people about Asian Pacific American culture as well as combat common stereotypes used against Asian Pacific Americans would be the best way to approach the problem. We all realized that Asian American themed shirts were limited to certain themes and stereotypical shirts. So at Asian Crew Inc, there are no “Got Rice?” jokes, Bruce Lee pictures, or over-used gimmicks here. We’re dedicated to making Asian American themed shirts with style and originality. We want to give you unique and kick-ass gear that makes you proud to rep Asian culture.

We need your help. We need to raise money to order our newest batch of designs so if you agree that being Asian is cool, donate to our Kickstarter project. We need all the help we can get, so tell your mom, your dad, your uncle(s), your second cousin(s), and even your friend you haven’t talked to in a long time, about our project. Help us spread the word. If you have any comments, critiques, ideas, or even experiences you’d like to share with us, send us an email at asiancrewinc[at]gmail.com. Thanks for reading!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: I’m a sophomore at the University of Massachusetts and partner of Asian Crew Inc.

By Joni

This past Sunday, women (and some men, I suppose) all over the nation put their big game strategies in motion. Noooo, I’m not talking about football. Football is a walk in the park compared to what some people went through in order to score pieces from Jason Wu’s highly anticipated collection for Target stores. Wu, a high end fashion designer, created a 53 piece collection for Target which consists of fun dresses, skirts, tops and to complete the look, handbags and scarves!

Jason Wu’s designs can cost thousands of dollars! Sure, $3,000 is pocket change to the rich and famous and the First Lady, but for me, how about no. Not just no, but WTH?! Fortunately, for the average Joe, Wu’s collection of separates and bags for Target ranges in price from $19.99 to $59.99. Touchdown!

The early bird gets the worm, or the Wu in this case. This not-so-early-bird suffered the consequences of sleeping in. Little did I know that by 10:30AM, everything I wanted would be sold out at the Van Nuys store in Southern California. First down. I advanced to the Culver City store where there were literally less than 10 pieces on the display. The colors and patterns of the various blouses and skirts available were lovely and perfect for Spring and Summer. The rayon material of the shirts seemed a little flimsy, but for $19.99, one can get past it. Alas, none of the pieces were in my size. Second down and I keep fighting. The Redondo Beach was the worst of the three. The only trace of Wu’s collection was an empty rack. One of the employees said that there were ladies lined before the store opened. That’s just crazy! (But I considered it.) Third down and Uncle, I give. Like the Patriots, I walked away with shattered dreams.

My online experience later that afternoon was much of the same; very few pieces were available, none in my size, nor on my wish list. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and information all over the internet advises that Target will restock their online inventory. The stores however, will not be replenished.

The day was not a complete dud. It was Super Bowl Sunday after all and it was a gorgeous day for party in Eagle Rock. To be honest, everything after half time was a blur. Stupid beer. I do remember one fellow at the party lost a bet and had to change into an evening gown for the second half. He looked beautiful as he descended down the stairs to Abba’s “Dancing Queen.” Congrats to Eli Manning and the Giants for giving the Patriots a winning dose of déjà vu.

ABOUT JONI: Just an average Chinese-Filipino gal who loves the beach, good wine and pancit!

UPDATE: Congrats to our winners: karin wang, Ninjaboi Banzai, and Anthony!

This is part of 8Asians’ 2011 “8Days of Giveaways” Celebration.

Remember the highly-coveted NINJA WINS t-shirt we unveiled with Blacklava for Comic-Con last year?

Designed by the fabulous Christine Miguel of NIWE Style Clothing, the fast-selling shirt has been one of the most popular designs at the Blacklava booth at events like Comic-Con and the TN Party.

Thanks to our partners Ryan Suda & his entire team at Blacklava, you can order the shirt online but if you act fast, you can get it as a late holiday gift from 8Asians!

More on the concept of the shirt:

Ahh, Pirates Versus Ninjas – it’s the topic people the world over have debated for centuries, if by “the world over” you mean “internet bulletin boards frequented by sixteen year olds,” and by “centuries” you mean “however long memes last, which is like two or three years.”

Featuring items for Asian Americans everywhere, Blacklava is a grassroots organization whose mission is to raise questions about how Asian Americans are viewed in today’s society. They try to put themselves in the position where they can “improve, learn, teach, and to be challenged.”

Blacklava features a wide range of items, from t-shirts to mugs to taiko sticks. Each item is created with the purpose of sending a message, and you can send it in style.

Do some shopping at Blacklava and get 10% off of a minimum purchase of $25 with promo code: 8ASIANS10

Over at GASP!, we had the final say in the age-old debate: “Well, let the good folks here at 8Asians end this argument for you guys once and for all: The Ninjas Win. The ninjas totally win. The ninjas totally win because they’re Asian. Pack your bags, kids, game over.”

8Asians is giving some lucky 8Asians readers a chance to win our “NINJA WINS” t-shirt!

Ok, ok, so you you’re ready to enter? Read on!

What you could win from 8Asians.com?
Three (3) random winners will each receive an 8Asians NINJA WINS t-shirt by Blacklava. (Printed on 100% Cotton T)

Hurry, this contest closes soon!
One entry per person, please.

How do you enter?
1) Like the 8Asians Facebook Page!

2) Like the Blacklava.net Facebook page!

3) Fill out the form below:

Why do I have to fill out this form? We’re just trying to capture all the info needed to fulfill the prizes faster.

Can I enter more than once? No! Why you being so greedy?!

Prizes courtesy of: 8Asians.com (with thanks to Blacklava.net.)

UPDATE: Congrats to our winners: Ed Penano and Amber Ying!

This is part of 8Asians’ 2011 “8Days of Giveaways” Celebration.

Designed by Alexandra Peng Charton, with over fifteen years of experience in the industry, TC Charton is an eyewear line for Asian features. The first line of its kind designed in North America, the company creates both opthalmic frames and sunglasses. Unlike other “Asian fit” eyewear lines, they offer numerous styles to address different fit concerns.

TC Charton is modern and sleek, with a design philosophy of “everyday luxury”. Men, women and children can get a pair that complements their unique features. And, should you find yourself having trouble picking out a frame, you can send a headshot to Alexandra Peng and she will suggest the best fit for you.

Over at GASP!, we loved how they had such a wide range of frames, including one which “would be perfect when paired with a scarf and an open convertible.”

TC Charton is giving two lucky 8Asians readers, one male and one female, a chance to win the sunglasses of their choice!

Ok, ok, so you you’re ready to enter? Read on!

What you could win from 8Asians and TC Charton Asian Fit Eyewear?
Two (2) random winners (1 male, 1 female) will each receive TC Charton Asian Fit Eyewear a pair of modern and sleek sunglasses, valuing from $255-$330.

Which frame?
You tell us! Go to www.tc-charton.com, please tell us your favorite sunglasses frame.

Can’t decide? If you are a winner and you need help choosing a pair, designer Alexandra Peng will be happy to fit you by looking at a profile photo and headshots (you provide).

Hurry, this contest closes soon!
One entry per person, please.

How do you enter?
1) Like the 8Asians Facebook Page!

2) Like the TC Charton Asian Fit Eyewear Facebook page!

3) Fill out the form below:

Sorry, this giveaway is closed! Keep reading 8Asians for more giveaway opportunities!

Why do I have to fill out this form? We’re just trying to capture all the info needed to fulfill the prizes faster.

Can I enter more than once? No! Why you being so greedy?!

Prizes courtesy of: 8Asians.com and TC Charton Asian Fit Eyewear.

UPDATE: Congrats to our winners: Frank Huynh and Jackie!

This is part of 8Asians’ 2011 “8Days of Giveaways” Celebration.

Featuring items for Asian Americans everywhere, Blacklava is a grassroots organization whose mission is to raise questions about how Asian Americans are viewed in today’s society. They try to put themselves in the position where they can “improve, learn, teach, and to be challenged.”

Blacklava features a wide range of items, from t-shirts to mugs to taiko sticks. Each item is created with the purpose of sending a message, and you can send it in style.

Over at GASP!, we loved thought that you could definitely “show off your pride in your driving with [their] “Good Asian Driver” Tee.”

Do some shopping at Blacklava and get 10% off of a minimum purchase of $25 with promo code: 8ASIANS10

Blacklava is giving two lucky 8Asians readers a chance to win their “Good Asian Driver” t-shirt!

Ok, ok, so you you’re ready to enter? Read on!

What you could win from 8Asians and Blacklava?
Two (2) random winners will each receive a Good Asian Driver T-Shirt by Blacklava. (Printed on 100% Cotton T)

Hurry, this contest closes soon!
One entry per person, please.

How do you enter?
1) Like the 8Asians Facebook Page!

2) Like the Blacklava.net Facebook page!

3) Fill out the form below:

Why do I have to fill out this form? We’re just trying to capture all the info needed to fulfill the prizes faster.

Can I enter more than once? No! Why you being so greedy?!

Prizes courtesy of: 8Asians.com and Blacklava.net.

UPDATE: Congrats to our winners: Joshus Tadayoshi Kimura, Ariel, Pedro Gamuzza, and Sand!

This is part of 8Asians’ 2011 “8Days of Giveaways” Celebration.

Established in 2009, Akufuncture is dedicated to creating Chinese-inspired fashion, riding the fine dichotomy between high fashion and street-wear. The cultural mystique and ancient heroes of China have fueled inspiration in global fashion for generations. Now through stories of journey, luxury, struggle, and romance, Akufuncture aims to create a clothing line that brings to life a culture with much influence, and to tell the historical and cultural stories this influence has transpired from.

In historical China, during the Qing dynasty, an emperor commissioned the production of an extravagant yellow dragon robe. Made from the best silks and embroidered with colorful and elaborate patterns, this robe would signify a major milestone for the foundation of fashion in China and would become the first of numerous influential looks to come. From the opulence of traditional embroidered silks to the iconic image of the chic 1930′s Shanghai women, to refined military inspired looks, Chinese fashion has often extended its influence to the rest of the world. And now? By re-imagining the traditional mediums of the brushstroke, the thread, and the silk, Akufuncture now works to redefine Chinese fashion – by fusing over 5,000 years of rich history with modern-day expression.

Over at GASP!, we loved how their Guardian Lion shirt lets guys “stand up proud and show off your suave Asian American manliness.”

Akufuncture is giving lucky 8Asians readers a chance to win a t-shirt and a keychain!

Ok, ok, so you you’re ready to enter? Read on!

What you could win from 8Asians and Akufuncture?
Four (4) random winners will each receive one Akufuncture shirt (crew or tank) with the design of their choice and a Monkey King keychain. The shirt options are:

1) Black Aku Crew
2) Grey/Charcoal Aku Crew
3) Aku Tank

Hurry, this contest closes soon!
One entry per person, please.

How do you enter?
1) Like the 8Asians Facebook Page!

2) Like the Akufuncture Facebook page!

3) Fill out the form below:

Why do I have to fill out this form? We’re just trying to capture all the info needed to fulfill the prizes faster.

Can I enter more than once? No! Why you being so greedy?!

Prizes courtesy of: 8Asians.com and Akufuncture.

UPDATE: Congrats to our winner: cellia saragih!

This is part of 8Asians’ 2011 “8Days of Giveaways” Celebration.

Pequitobun jewelry marries the old-fashioned loveliness and detail of vintage jewelry with modern romantic design. Using the highest quality materials, including karat gold, 14K goldfill and gemstones, and carefully chosen vintage pieces, each piece is individually handmade by the designer, and either one-of-a-kind or very limited edition.

Pequitobun jewelry is proud to combine the ethos of recycling with the sustainability of quality durable materials, and seeks to create jewelry for every occasion, from a fun night out with the girls, to everyday signature pieces, to the grandest events where only the best will do. Pequitobun has been featured in US nation-wide press including the TV show Gossip Girl, magazines/newspapers like Lucky, Life and Style Weekly and the Boston Globe, and online mentions on the Urban Outfitters blog, Glamour and FabSugar.

Over at GASP!, we loved how Pequitobun’s “Bunny Likes Radish” Necklace “…mesh[ed] simplicity, style, and fun, this necklace is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face while matching every outfit”.

Pequitobun is giving lucky 8Asians readers a chance to win some of their awesome handmade jewelry! Or, you can find the perfect holiday gift at Pequitobun and use promo code GASP15 for 15% off anything in the shop!

Ok, ok, so you you’re ready to enter? Read on!

What you could win from 8Asians and Pequitobun?
One (1) random winner will each receive choice between the new And She Sparkles necklace OR the new Victorian Rocker Earrings, each handmade from revamped vintage components and sparkling gemstones.

Hurry, this contest closes soon!
One entry per person, please.

How do you enter?
1) Like the 8Asians Facebook Page!

2) Follow 8Asians on Twitter!

3) Fill out the form below:

Why do I have to fill out this form? We’re just trying to capture all the info needed to fulfill the prizes faster.

Can I enter more than once? No! Why you being so greedy?!

Prizes courtesy of: 8Asians.com and Pequitobun.

UPDATE: Congrats to our winner: Tia K!

This is part of 8Asians’ 2011 “8Days of Giveaways” Celebration.

Blend Creations seemed like a fitting name for a contemporary jewelry line when husband & wife team Eric Jean-Louis and Vivian Cheng decided to partner in an artistic business venture. Together, graphic designer Eric, and industrial designer Vivian, combine their divergent design approaches to create a contemporary jewelry line that is clean and modern in aesthetic, yet also blends their respective cultures in East meeting West.

Over at GASP!, we loved how “you can subtly make your presence known” with this high-polished stainless steel “@ symbol” twitter necklace. Adding a bit of sparkle with a Swarovski crystal accent in your choice of birthstone colors, this item can also be custom engraved with your twitter handle to wear at the next tweetup or networking event!

Blend Creations is also giving lucky 8Asians readers a chance to win one of these necklaces! Or, you can find the perfect holiday gift at Blend Creations and get 15% off $50 or more until 12/31/2011 with promo code “GASP2011″.

Ok, ok, so you you’re ready to enter? Read on!

What you could win from 8Asians and Blend Creations?
One (1) random winner will each receive one custom high-polished stainless steel “@ symbol” twitter necklace. Size: ~1-1/8″ in diameter. Necklace is fastened with a sterling silver lobster clasp. With a choice for the color of the Swarovski crystal and the length of necklace.

Hurry, this contest closes soon!
One entry per person, please.

How do you enter?
1) Like the 8Asians Facebook Page!

2) Like the Blend Creations Facebook page!

3) Fill out the form below:

Why do I have to fill out this form? We’re just trying to capture all the info needed to fulfill the prizes faster.

Can I enter more than once? No! Why you being so greedy?!

Prizes courtesy of: 8Asians.com and Blend Creations.