Cultural Threads

It's hip to flaunt Hispanic roots these days--even among non-Latinos

When Kobe and Vanessa Bryant stepped out for the Teen Choice Awards in Los Angeles on Aug. 2, the press immediately focused on the $4 million purple diamond perched on her right hand--a makeup gift, presumably, from her embattled husband. But it was Vanessa's shirt that caught the eye of fashion watchers. Under her wrap sweater, Vanessa wore a simple top with one word boldly printed across the front: LATINA.

Although Vanessa Bryant is Latina, you don't have to be Hispanic to wear phrases such as CHICA, MAMACITA and NO PROBLEMA on your chest these days. Tops, T shirts, hoodies and...

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