Jessica Wu
How did growing up Asian make you feel?
I was raised in a predominantly white, upper middle/upper class neighborhood where name brand everything and athleticism were crucial to public school social survival. I didn't have much of the former (think Abercrombie, Hollister, and Juicy Couture - and if I did have it, it was purchased secondhand) and definitely had very little of the latter (although 6 years of dance must count for something?). While there were many times when I felt othered, or experienced microaggressions or outright racism, I did have a very strong Asian community for most of my child & teenhood before moving to New York at 17. I spent a good two to three out of the seven days of the week at my local church and Chinese school in the town next to mine, which had a largely Asian population. Most of the time, it felt like I was really "properly" Asian on the weekends, and then trying to conform and be invisible on weekdays. It was easier for me to try to blend in than to do anything that would make me stick out - but my burgeoning interest in fashion in middle school began to change that. I discovered personal style as a way to escape from the sleepy beachtown culture of Southern California and express myself. I definitely didn't dress like my peers, but that kind of empowered me in many ways.
Who inspires you?
I'm always inspired by all the people around me, particularly the people I love. During a time of such turmoil across the board, there's nothing I want to do more than to spend time with and enjoy the presence of my friends, family, and loved ones. It's been so hard to learn (and I'm still very much learning) how to truly rest and recover, especially when life moves a million miles a minute and you're not really given any time to rest. I am inspired by the peace, happiness, and brief moments of hope that I feel in my times of leisure.
What are you listening to right now? (we'll make a playlist)
Djobi Djoba by Gipsy Kings
More Than a Woman by Aaliyah
Favorite (Vampire) by NCT 127
Only Time by Enya
Unloyal (with Ari Lennox) by Summer Walker
Somebody Like You by Bree Runway
Are there any AAPI artists or designers you've been eyeing lately?
I love Stephanie H. Hsih, an incredible artist who recreates iconic food items and objects from our childhoods in hyperreal porcelain. My recent favorite pieces of hers are the Tatung dianguo, Kewpie mayo, and Costco Mixed Nuts (I identify with all of these very strongly). KATKIM's fine jewelry is so gorgeous and ethereal, I would love to own some pieces some day!
How do you unwind after a particularly long/stressful day?
On the most ideal days, if I have energy I like to do a 30-45 minute workout and then cook a simple meal for dinner. Otherwise, I commute straight home and order guilty pleasure takeout on the way so it's there right when I get home! I end up watching dozens of cooking videos on YouTube, and then finish my meal with "dessert" (usually fruits or yogurt). I have a habit of walking after dinner to digest, but haven't been doing so lately just for safety's sake, so I'll end up obsessively tidying or reorganizing - it's kind of cathartic for me! By the end of the night, I'm in bed looking at cute dogs or recipes on Instagram and doomscrolling twitter (I should stop doing that...) while I wait for my boyfriend to get off work. It's important to end any stressful day with hugs and cuddles!