dei IN the fashion industry
As of 2025, the fashion industry is at a turning point when it comes to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). There’s been progress, especially in the visibility of Asian American designers and models, but there’s still a long way to go. We’ve seen major wins, like Asian designers making headlines at New York Fashion Week and models like Liu Wen landing historic covers. Collectives like House of Slay are also pushing for inclusion and speaking out against racial discrimination within the industry. These moments are meaningful and inspiring—especially for Asian Americans who haven’t always seen themselves reflected in mainstream fashion spaces.
That said, the momentum around DEI is facing some challenges. Politically the shift in the U.S. climate, like the rollback of affirmative action and changes under the current administration, has caused some companies to quietly pull back on their DEI efforts. For example, Walmart shut down its Racial Equity Center and scaled back on inclusive products, signaling a trend we’re starting to see across other industries too. Additionally, the runways that were beginning to reflect more body diversity have backtracked. This past season, the majority of models were straight-sized, which is a step in the wrong direction when it comes to true representation.
Despite these setbacks, there are still meaningful shifts happening. Brands are becoming more intentional with how they collaborate and represent different cultures. Instead of cultural appropriation, there's a growing focus on cultural appreciation, celebrating heritage through authentic design partnerships. This kind of change supports deeper storytelling and gives creatives of all backgrounds more space to share their narratives.
As an Asian American born into this moment, these changes are both encouraging and complex. On one hand, there are more opportunities and role models than ever before. On the other, the uncertainty around DEI policies means we still have to work harder to carve out space in an industry that hasn’t always prioritized inclusivity behind the scenes. The future will largely depend on how brands, creators, and consumers continue to push for authentic representation and accountability. But one thing’s for sure, staying involved and vocal about inclusivity makes a real difference.
