The fashion show featured a wide range of collections, from graphic streetwear to ornate formal attire. Jamie Okuma opened the show with a collection of cool, graphic pieces featuring her signature print work. The florals in her collection were inspired by the ones surrounding her studio, with contemporary interpretations of Parfleche design. Lauren Good Day showcased elk ivory-printed wrap dresses and bomber jackets, enlisting a star-studded cast including actor Amber Midthunder, singer Tia Woods, and artist Naiomi Glasses. Good Day aimed to represent the Indigenous community, highlighting movers and shakers within Indian Country. Adrian Standing Elk Pinnecoose debuted two statement gowns featuring 3-D printing drawn from traditional Navajo textiles. Caroline Monnet’s collection featured voluminous silhouettes made from materials like construction plastic, Tyvek, and pink wall insulation, emphasizing the theme of building a future together for the next seven generations. Jontay Kahm closed the show with theatrical evening looks made of beads and feathers, incorporating the American silhouette concept of jeans and a t-shirt in a more wearable yet still theatrical way.
Indian Market continues to raise the bar of Indigenous excellence, offering a platform for artists to showcase their talent. The event is not limited to August, with SWAIA Native Fashion Week set to feature top artists from the market on the runway in May of next year. This expansion allows for the eclectic street style scene and groundbreaking designs showcased at the event to reach a wider audience. Attendees can look forward to more innovative and creative designs in the upcoming Native Fashion Week, with a diverse range of styles and influences representing Indigenous artistry.
Jamie Okuma’s collection reflected her signature print work, incorporating florals inspired by the surroundings of her studio and contemporary interpretations of Parfleche design. Lauren Good Day’s pieces featured elk ivory prints on wrap dresses and bomber jackets, with a focus on representing and highlighting the Indigenous community. Adrian Standing Elk Pinnecoose showcased statement gowns with 3-D printing inspired by traditional Navajo textiles, while Caroline Monnet’s collection emphasized building a future together using unconventional materials like construction plastic and Tyvek. Jontay Kahm closed the show with theatrical evening looks featuring beads and feathers, combining elements of war and the American silhouette concept in a wearable yet dramatic manner.
The annual Indian Market event continues to raise the bar for Indigenous excellence, providing a platform for artists to showcase their unique talents and creativity. The addition of SWAIA Native Fashion Week in May allows for top artists from the market to present their work on the runway, expanding the reach of innovative and groundbreaking designs. Attendees can expect a diverse range of collections, from graphic streetwear to ornate formal attire, representing the rich and vibrant culture of Indigenous artistry. With a focus on representation and community empowerment, the fashion show highlights the talent and creativity of Indigenous designers, setting a new standard for excellence in the industry.
The collections featured at the fashion show ranged from graphic streetwear to ornate formal attire, showcasing the diverse range of styles and influences within Indigenous fashion. Jamie Okuma’s collection was inspired by the florals surrounding her studio, with contemporary interpretations of Parfleche design. Lauren Good Day aimed to represent and highlight the Indigenous community through her elk ivory-printed pieces, featuring a star-studded cast of models. Adrian Standing Elk Pinnecoose incorporated traditional Navajo textile patterns into his statement gowns with 3-D printing, while Caroline Monnet focused on building a future together using unconventional materials. Jontay Kahm closed the show with theatrical evening looks referencing war and the American silhouette concept, balancing wearability with theatrical flair. The annual Indian Market event continues to celebrate Indigenous excellence, with the upcoming SWAIA Native Fashion Week providing a platform for top artists to showcase their work on the runway, expanding the reach of Indigenous fashion and design.
