Asian American Female Looks You can Rock this Halloween
Submitted by Sarah Rata
With Halloween around the corner, it can be difficult to pick a costume that you genuinely enjoy. Even when we do find one, sometimes we can be unaware of how imitating another person’s features can be offensive to others. For example, while Mulan may be my favorite Disney princess, it definitely would not be a good idea to show up to the Halloween party in a traditional hanfu. It is important to be actively aware of cultural appropriation and misusing different clothing pieces, accessories, or props.
To avoid the risk of cultural appropriation and celebrate the Asian American representation in American media, here are some costume ideas of strong female characters. Here are five ideas that range from nostalgic cartoons to more recent and dramatic films. While they are fictional, they all represent Asian women as strong, powerful, and of course, with a good sense of style.
1. Suki from Fast and Furious
In Fast and Furious, Suki is a highly strategic and competitive racer who leads her own all-female group of street racers. She makes second place in a big race by using both her skills and brain power. Also, her iconic pink pants will really stand out at any Halloween party.
2. Laura Jean Covey from To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
Laura Jean is a sweet, smart high school girl who knows what she wants. She studies hard and has excellent grades, and while she is an introverted character, she learns to take risks and stand up for herself throughout the film. Her style is very feminine and preppy.
3. Trixie Tang from Fairly Odd Parents
While she is not exactly a hero or protagonist like the other characters, Trixie Tang is a strong willed character who is not afraid to be rude, and always determined to be happy. Her iconic purple aesthetic and white boots are a staple to the costume. It could also be really nice to dress up as someone that reminds you of your childhood for some good nostalgic vibes.
4. Rachel Chu from Crazy Rich Asians
Played by Constance Wu, Rachel Chu is an iconic female Asian American who faces a judgemental and intimidating family for true love. She has so many great personality traits and inspires others to fight for what they want while staying true to themselves and their loved ones. Rachel’s iconic wedding scene dress can easily be replicated with a load of light blue tulle from your local craft store.
5. Go Go Tomago from Big Hero 6
From Big Hero 6, Go Go Tomago has a super strong and logical mind. She analyzes situations very well and exhibits both her brain power and toughness throughout the film. You can rock her iconic bob with purple highlights this Halloween and maybe even have a friend dress as Baymax!
Between the modern looks of these powerful characters, you may already have some of these items in your wardrobe already. Hopefully in future years, there will be plenty more Asian American representation that we can look up to and dress up as for Halloween!
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