The Strange & Quirky World of Asian Market T-Shirts

Message t-shirts are all the rage these days. We've all seen t-shirts, usually worn by kids, teens, and young adults, with humorous slogans, ironic declarations, and jaded commentary. Many of these t-shirt messages make me chuckle, a few make me fear for the next generation, and then there is a unique subgroup that makes me scratch my head in confusion. I call them "Asian Market" t-shirts because they are generally worn by my Asian students--and most of the time I can't figure out what their messages actually mean. Usually the slogans are positive, aspirational, and often vaguely poetic compared to "American" message t's.

It's hard to explain, so I'll just show you. Herewith, some samples from the strange and quirky world of Asian market message T's.

This has to be one of my favorites. Simple and to the point. I'm just not sure what the point is. I've never associated a "rebel yell" with hugs. Do you shout until someone hugs you. I am confused. . .

This t-shirt featured a whole poetic rumination on love, loss and the Manhattan skyline. The front of the t-shirt is above and the back below


Disney is a popular theme with these type of t-shirts. This one reads: "Mickey is always ready for adventure and action!!"

Dream is another popular theme. . .

I really couldn't figure this one out at all. I think it's about beer? I'm really not sure.

Just another small way my students make my life richer and more interesting! I'll have to get one of these t-shirts of my own one day and leave the people I meet scratching their heads in wonder. . .