站直 Stand Up Straight embodies the social and cultural obligations placed on Chinese Americans through the fusion of traditional clothing and modern business wear. Faced with the contradictions of the model minority myth and a perpetual foreigner status, Chinese Americans are expected to be both assimilated and alien, successful but submissive. The business formal silhouettes of each look reflect the burden to conform placed on immigrant children. The subtle seam lines reference customary Chinese performances and show a quiet obligation to carry culture, something that is both an inheritance and a brand. The color red is a living motif, embodying tradition, sacrifice, pride, and ultimately transforming into courage. 站直 Stand Up Straight explores how Chinese Americans can find their own sense of identity despite these pressures

Using Format