Bear Robe

INDIGENOUS Fashion

curated by Amber-Dawn Bear Robe

Amber-Dawn Bear Robe, from Siksika Nation, organizes fashion shows & curates exhibits that highlight modern Indigenous fashion & design.

→ About Bear Robe

About Indigenous Fashion

Native Fashion is not just about clothing; it's a powerful expression of Indigenous knowledge, language, identity, and contemporary expression. Each garment, each design, carries with it layers of meaning, fashioned by innovative designers who with their unique expression and techniques, push boundaries to create new narratives, and sometimes reinterpreting time-honored narratives.

Image: MoCNA (2022)

Designer: Jamie Okuma

Image: Tira Howard (2024)

Designer: Jason Baerg x Melanie Monique Rose for Ayimach Horizons

Indigenous cultures are continually shifting, responding to the land and modern environment; some fashions reflect this and may challenge the viewer’s notion of “Indian style,” while other designers use fashion as a means for social activism. Contemporary Native American fashion is a vibrant and diverse field that reflects the ongoing creativity and innovation of Indigenous knowledge expressed through material culture.

Image: Tira Howard (2022)

Designer(s):Catherine Blackburn x Melanie LeBlanc

Image: Angella Choe

Designer: Jamie Okuma

DIVERSITY OF

INDIGENOUS FASHION & DESIGN

Many contemporary Indigenous designers incorporate intricate beadwork and embroidery into their designs, often drawing on traditional techniques and motifs. These can be found in everything from garments to accessories, footwear and jewelry.

Modern takes on traditional clothing: Some designers are reinterpreting traditional Native American garments, such as ribbon shirts, jingle dresses, and buckskin dresses, using modern materials and cuts.

Streetwear and casual wear: There is a growing trend of Native American designers creating streetwear and casual clothing that draws on both traditional and modern aesthetics. These often incorporate bold graphics, text and imagery.

Accessories: Native American designers are also creating a range of accessories, including jewelry, hats and bags. These often feature traditional materials such as leather, silver and turquoise, but may also incorporate modern materials and techniques.

Overall, contemporary Native American fashion is a vibrant and diverse field that reflects the ongoing creativity and innovation within Native communities.