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28 Famous People Who Wore Red Carpet Looks Inspired By Their Culture
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“These days, I’m becoming more and more interested in not having to leave part of myself at the door as I enter a room.” I'm the AAPI Culture Editor here at BuzzFeed, where I cover everything from trending news to pop culture to AAPI issues. The stylist duo Wayman + Micah also posted about the outfit on Instagram. "The hand beaded 'Gold' of phoenix and lotus motif details represent the intricate art and culture of Vietnam. The headdress 'khăn đống' symbolizes power. The image of a phoenix rising from the ash perfectly suits the beautiful and strong Kelly Marie Tran combined with the lotus motif in the center of the headdress, which is the national flower of Vietnam." Mari told Vogue, "The design we ended up creating speaks to our biracial heritage and in that, I believe it really celebrates who we all are and how we all play a role in the American Dream. It's a celebration of cultures, like America itself, a melting pot of so many special and unique elements." Last year, Afa Ah Loo was tragically shot and killed at a "No Kings" protest. Auliʻi posted a tribute on Instagram, writing, "There are no words to hold the grief of losing @afa.ahloo. As a Samoan fashion designer, Afa’s creations are and remain thoughtful, elegant and powerful portrayals of Pacific culture. I am still amazed to have worn his custom designs for the most significant event of my career; the world premiere of Moana 2. Your artistry will never be forgotten; and neither will your peaceful protest." On Instagram, Richa wrote, "Incredibly humbled and honored to get to wear this stunning work of art by @amitaggarwalofficial who graciously invited me to his atelier in Delhi and instantly made me feel like part of the parivaar. Huge shout out to the whole team there that has made this precious moment possible and for giving me the opportunity to proudly represent the perfection that is Indian craftsmanship. ✨ The brand’s signature materials of polymer push the aesthetic of modern Indian handiwork and silhouetting, the lightness of the piece and its ethereal emerald colour." "This necklace is a special piece we like to call, Heilala. Adorned with the significant color of Red representing my beautiful Tongan people... This was an emotional appearance for me. Because for the first time in the many years I’ve been in this industry, I was able to represent and embrace my culture and family on these Hollywood floors. Feels liberating to be authentically yourself." Once they decided on the House of Umar Sayeed, Kumail's stylist, Jeanne Yang, sent over pictures of his superhero costume for inspiration. "I wanted the colors to be similar to my costume colors, and purple and gold are a beautiful combination. The paisley pattern is very traditional as well," he said. The designer said, "This sari is an ode to her brilliance and beauty. Although a sari is quintessentially and iconically Indian, its elegance is matched by its slinky, sensual blouse." "These days, I’m becoming more and more interested in not having to leave part of myself at the door as I enter a room," he said. "Wearing a kurta to a premiere signals to the world what kind of space that is now and what is acceptable in that space... If I’m really, really honest with you, what I want is to be unapologetically myself."