2025 designerS
Meet Our VIFW 2025 Designers
Opening Night, Red Dress Event: Dress in red to remember and celebrate Indigenous resilience and strength, and to honour our missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit members of our communities.
Opening Night Designer Showcase — Nov 19
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April Allen is an Inuk fashion designer from Rigolet, Nunatsiavut, and the artist behind Stitched by April. Her work blends sealskin and beadwork, drawing on generations of Inuit tradition. She’s also the founder of Indigenous Bead Supply Canada, known for vibrant earrings and textiles that reflect deep cultural roots.
Follow them on Instagram: @stitchedbyapril
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Lesley Hampton is an Anishinaabe fashion designer and artist from Temagami First Nation. Her work explores mental wellness, body neutrality, and Indigenous identity. A model and activist, Lesley is reshaping Canadian fashion by centering diverse representation and using her platform for cultural and social advocacy.
Follow them on Instagram: @lesley_hampton
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Yolonda Skelton (Gitxsan Nation) is the designer behind Sugiiit Lukxs Designs. Her latest collection, Wind Whispers of Wearable Wisdom, reflects the theme of air – honouring breath, ancestors, and freedom. She merges formline design with modern fashion to create garments rooted in cultural teachings and reverence for nature.
Follow them on Instagram: @yolondaskelton
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Bruno Henry, is Cayuga, Turtle Clan, Six Nations of the Grand River. Now living in Toronto, he brings his artistic visions to life through photography, hand-tied leather clothing design, and jewelry. He is a self-taught artist, known for his imaginative and unique blending of modern adaptable styles with traditional designs. Bruno puts his calm and peaceful energies into his couture, hand painted earrings, and necklaces designed from natural materials such as leather, rawhide, antler, and feathers. Each work is uniquely shaped and painted with differing clan animals, landscapes, and spirit symbols.
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Angela Howe, founder of Choke Cherry Creek, is an Indigenous fashion designer from the Apsáalooke (Crow) and Pikuni (Blackfeet) Nations. Her brand celebrates Indigenous strength and matriarchal wisdom through collections like Strength in Roots. Angela’s work blends tradition with modern design, showcased at New York, Paris, and Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Weeks. Her mission is to uplift Indigenous voices and reflect cultural pride and resilience.
Follow them on Instagram: @chokecherrycreek
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Reggie Harrold is a contemporary Indigenous artist from the Fort Nelson First Nation (Dene, Slavey) and Secwépemc/Shuswap territory, based in Vancouver. Her work blends traditional techniques with modern fashion to explore identity and heritage. She holds an MFA from UBC and a Fashion Design diploma from John Casablancas Institute. Her designs use spool knitting, beadwork, and sinew to create wearable art and gallery pieces that push the boundaries of tradition.
Follow them on Instagram: @reggieharrold
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Thii Hayqwtun House of Design, led by Maynard Johnny Jr., blends art and fashion to create stylish Indigenous fashion for men. His pieces offer a powerful, unique expression of identity that can't be found anywhere else.
Follow them on Instagram: @maynard_johnny_jr_artist
All My Relations: Traditional practices mix with contemporary aesthetics in magnificent pieces from emerging and established Indigenous designers.
Night 02 Designer Showcase — Nov 20
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Amber and Kaylyn are proud Northern Tutchone/Tlingit sisters. They come from Pelly Crossing, Yukon Territory and are Selkirk First Nation members. Kaylyn is based out of Whitehorse, Yukon. Her designs stem from memories, stories, the land, feelings and even people. Kaylyn’s style of working through designs allows herself to freely think of whatever inspires her in that very moment, resulting in bright contrasts of colour and textures while blending tradition with contemporary. Through what she calls beaded storytelling she makes her grandparents proud and showcases her favourite moments throughout her life through a combination of fashion illustrated poetry. Her work shows her children that it’s okay to try new things and to follow their dreams. Amber lives in Pelly Crossing and in 2017 was inspired by the beauty around her and her sister and aunt, and wanted to use her creative mindset into designing beaded art. Amber feels a deep sense of joy when she sees people wear her beadwork with pride. She creates beaded jewelry but has been learning to design wearable art. She has been inspired to teach people about beading and their culture. Amber and Kaylyn enjoy putting on workshops together and teaching people around Yukon and helping to inspire the next generation.
Follow them on Instagram: @kaylynbakerdesigns
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Osamuskwasis is a Cree/Dene fashion designer and educator from Pigeon Lake, Alberta (Treaty 6). As founder of her namesake brand, she blends traditional knowledge with contemporary fashion, from streetwear to couture. Her work features beadwork, cultural patterns, and storytelling – uplifting Indigenous models and communities through fashion rooted in identity and pride.
Follow them on Instagram: @osamuskwasis
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Patricia Michaels is a celebrated Indigenous fashion designer and the founder of PM Waterlily. A Project Runway finalist, Patricia is known for her visionary work that blends Native traditions with high fashion. Her designs reflect the rhythm of nature, family, and her Taos Pueblo roots, using organic materials and natural dyes to bring cultural stories to life on the runway.
Follow them on Instagram: @patriciamichaels
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Led by Kinou Arcentales Cajas (Yana Manta), Pacha Arts is a Kichwa family brand dedicated to Indigenous wearable art and trade traditions. Their collection, KAWSANKI, blends cultural storytelling with contemporary design. With over 15 years of experience in textiles, industrial machinery, and wardrobe design, his work bridges tradition and innovation. Through his role at Pacha Arts, Kinou blends ancestral trade practices with bold, contemporary design, bringing Kichwa artistry to runways and communities around the world.
Follow them on Instagram: @pacha_arts
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Rebecca Baker-Grenier is a multidisciplinary artist of Kwakiutl, Dzawada’enuxw, and Skwxwú7mesh descent. With a BA in Indigenous Studies from UBC, she began her fashion journey in 2021 and trained under Pam Baker. Her designs blend cultural identity with contemporary art and have appeared at New York and Vancouver Fashion Weeks, as well as SWAIA in Santa Fe. In 2021, she received the YVR Emerging Artist award and was recently featured in Elle Canada.
Follow them on Instagram: @rebecca.baker.g
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Jason Baerg is a Cree Métis artist and fashion designer whose work explores Indigenous culture through fashion, tech, and art. A member of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Jason has shown at Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week and the Getty Museum. He holds degrees from Concordia and Rutgers and was named one of “15 Indigenous Designers to Watch” by Vogue and “5 Designers to Know” by Elle.
Follow them on Instagram: @ayimach_horizons
Indigenous Futures: Indigenous Futurism features streetwear designs that advocate for Indigenous sovereignty. It is an evening of Indigenous artistic practice, contemporary storytelling, and pop culture.
Night 03 Designer Showcase — Nov 21
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Scarlet Delirium is a Port Coquitlam-based Kwakwaka'wakw designer and performer known for bold, theatrical fashion rooted in burlesque, Indigenous story, and unapologetic self-expression. Her designs fuse showgirl glam, K̓wa̱la̱ culture, and strut-worthy silhouettes that empower Indigenous people to feel confident in and out of their clothes.
Follow them on Instagram: @scarlet_delirium
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The HISTORYMKRS is an Indigenous-owned streetwear brand reclaiming what it means to wear your story. Founded by K.C. Hall and his cousin, the label empowers Indigenous youth to rewrite their narratives through fashion. Blending bold streetwear with traditional Northwest Coast art, The Historymkrs creates designs rooted in resilience, identity, and cultural pride. Each piece is a visual protest against erasure and a celebration of living culture. Through collaboration and community engagement, the brand amplifies Indigenous voices and carries stories forward for future generations.
Follow them on Instagram: @hstrymkrs
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Robyn McLeod is a Dene/Métis fashion designer whose work fuses Indigenous storytelling with modern cuts and bold patterns. Her Dene Futurism collection has shown in Milan, Mexico City, Toronto, and Santa Fe, showcasing deep connections to land, identity, and pride.
Follow them on Instagram: @robynmcleodfashion
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Lead to Empower & Act with Purpose is a registered non-profit volunteer-run society that provides leadership and mentorship opportunities as well as wrap-around support for self-identifying young women; including indigenous, two-spirited, LGBTQQIA+, vulnerable and at-risk youth in the Downtown Eastside and Grandview Woodlands communities. GWL believes that promotion of community engagement, prevention and early intervention are key methods to bring about positive social change.
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Angel Aubichon is a Cree-Métis designer from Peepeekisis Cree Nation and the founder of Indi City, an Indigenous fashion brand known for bold, laser-cut statement pieces inspired by ancestral beadwork and matriarchal memory. As the creator of Tech-Regalia, she merges traditional Indigenous artistry with wearable technology, redefining the intersection of fashion, culture, and innovation.
Follow them on Instagram: @indi_city
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Desmon “Day Day” Pack is the designer behind Creators Kidz Co., a brand where West Coast Indigenous art meets African American streetwear and couture influence. After years of designing for others, Day Day launched his own line to share deeply personal stories through fashion. Every piece is rooted in culture, community, and creativity. It’s about honouring tradition while pushing boundaries. Creators Kidz Co. is a bold expression of pride and identity, where heritage meets the future.
Follow them on Instagram: @creatorskidzco @drb.dayday
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Alicia Stephens is a Nuu-chah-nulth and Kwakwaka'wakw artist from Vancouver Island, now based in Vancouver. Since 2012, she’s gained recognition for her one-of-a-kind hand-painted fashion pieces that span everything from boots to belts. Her “Resilience” collection debuted at New York Fashion Week in 2019, honouring survivors of the Residential School System. Alicia’s mission is to bring First Nations art into the mainstream and remind the world that Indigenous culture is thriving.
Follow them on Instagram: @alicias_designs
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Vina Brown is the Haíłzaqv and Nuučaan̓uɫ designer behind Copper Canoe Woman, a fashion brand weaving cultural stories into every garment. Her work blends traditional materials with modern silhouettes, celebrating Indigenous identity and connection to the land. A community leader and advocate, Vina also founded Rooted Resiliency, supporting Indigenous wellness, Land Back, and food sovereignty. Her work uplifts and empowers through art, fashion, and activism.
Follow them on Instagram: @coppercanoewoman
Spirit of the West Coast: Celebrate designs with a signature West Coast spirit that highlights the uniqueness of this land and people
Night 04 Designer Showcase — Nov 22
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The Good House of Design is a second-generation Coast Salish design house from the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Founded by sisters Aunalee Boyd-Good and Sophia Good, Ay Lelum creates culturally rooted fashion inspired by stories, songs, and teachings passed down through their family. Their collections feature traditional artwork by their late brother Joel Good and father Dr. William Good, and reflect a commitment to size-inclusivity, sustainability, and cultural revitalization. Their work spans fashion, music, and art, sharing Coast Salish design with the world.
Follow them on Instagram: @aylelum
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From the Squamish Nation, Chepximiya Siyam’ Janice George and Skwetsimeltxw Willard ‘Buddy’ Joseph are master weavers, educators, and cultural leaders. Together, they co-founded L’hen Awtxw Weaving House to preserve and share traditional Coast Salish wool weaving. Their work blends art, ceremony, and cultural revitalization, with exhibits across North America and co-authorship of the book Salish Blankets. Janice is also a hereditary chief, trained curator, and artist-in-residence.
Follow them on Instagram: @chepximiya
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Debra brings Salish weaving to life through contemporary fashion. She is a master weaver whose decades of work preserve ancestral stories. Her pieces use all-natural fibers and reflect deep respect for the land, culture, and community. Debra is well known for creating garments that are as meaningful as they are beautiful.
Follow her on Instagram: @salishblanketco @qwasen
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T.O.C. Legends House of Design: Himikalas is a celebrated Indigenous fashion designer, artist, and entrepreneur with 45 years of traditional teachings and a lifetime of creative expression. She is the force behind Touch of Culture and T.O.C. Legends Designs, known for her award-winning work in fashion, jewelry, and installation art. With Coast Salish, Kwakiutl, and Tlingit roots, she weaves cultural protocol into every design, inspiring the next generation through residencies, mentorship, and legacy work across Turtle Island.
Follow them on Instagram: @himikalas
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Randi Nelson is a Secwépemc artist and fashion designer from the St’uxwtéws First Nation, known for blending traditional materials like smoked hides, quills, and caribou hair with high-fashion silhouettes. Her pieces have appeared at the Oscars, Emmys, Junos, and Cannes, earning global recognition and awards including Best in Show at Santa Fe Indian Market. Each creation is a tribute to Indigenous beauty, wealth, and resilience.
Follow them on Instagram: @randinelsondesigns
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Tishna Marlowe is a Dene artist from the Lutselke Dene First Nation in the Northwest Territories. Inspired by generations of matriarchs, she creates one-of-a-kind gowns using fish scales, antlers, and furs to preserve and share cultural knowledge. Tishna’s work bridges ancestral teachings and contemporary fashion to pass on stories, values, and identity to future generations.
Follow them on Instagram: @dene_couture_by_tishna_marlowe
Jennifer Younger, an award-winning Tlingit artist from the Eagle Kaagwaantaan clan in Sitka, Alaska, creates one-of-a-kind, freehand-engraved jewelry inspired by traditional formline designs and natural textures. Her award-winning work pushes the boundaries of her medium, blending cultural heritage with contemporary artistry.
Follow them on Instagram: @jenniferyoungerdesigns
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Okimaw Bird's innate flair for fashion has blossomed into a powerful tribute to his late mother, as the 13 year-old sews together a legacy of love, incorporating meaningful elements reflective of her name, Kehiew Iskwew, and the impact she had on his life. This passion led to collaborating with his Aunty Helen Oro and having his very first dress being featured in an online article by Vogue. Since that first collaboration, this inspired both of them to continue on with a collection dedicated to his mother.
This vibrant collaboration embodies the boundless potential of our cultural heritage, merging traditional beadwork and modern innovation. By reinvigorating these timeless elements, we aim to unleash their full splendor, resilience, and transformative impact. We recognize beadwork not only as a traditional art form, but also as a potent emblem of pride, connection, and ancestral legacy. As we adorn ourselves with these stunning pieces, we personify the unyielding spirit and dignity of our heritage, fusing elegance with modern sophistication. Inspired by the majestic adornments of our ancestors, we honor our past while embracing a brighter, more empowered future.
Follow them on Instagram: @helen.orodesigns
Our VIFW 2024 Designers
Opening Night Designer Showcase — Nov 20
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Nation: Skwxwú7mesh
We have been working to reinvigorate wool weaving for our Squamish families and community.
Our work has connected us to ancestral knowledge of Weaving, it also focuses us on the well being of our people, and future generations. Our weaving practices encompass ceremony, public art installations, and architectural projects, making Salish weaving present and visible every day in unceded, traditional and occupied Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), səlil̕wətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) territory.
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Nation: Gitxsan
Yolonda Skelton (Sug-iit-looks) is a visionary fashion/costume designer from the Gitxsan First Nations, whose work beautifully intertwines her cultural heritage with contemporary aesthetics. Yolonda's deep connection to her roots as taught to her by her late maternal grandmother Lily Jackson is evident in each and every one of her creations. Her innate ability to fuse the old and the new has made her a trailblazer in the industry, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique style. Yolonda's designs tell stories of her ancestors, invoking a sense of pride and reverence for the Gitxsan culture. She honors the traditions passed down through generations while embracing the ever-evolving world of fashion. Yolonda's acclaimed designs have graced the runways of prestigious fashion shows, attracting a loyal following. She consistently pushes the boundaries of what is possible, challenging conventional fashion and redefining what it means to be an Indigenous designer.
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Nation: Inuvialuit & Gwich'in
Designer: Taalrumiq
(pronunciation : Dah-la-ghru-mek)Name of Collection: IG Love, Hope, Joy
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Taalrumiq is an Inuvialuit (Ee-noo-vee-ah-loo-weet) and Gwich’in multidisciplinary fashion designer, artist and digital content creator from Tuktuuyaqtuuq (Dook-duu-yuk-duuq), Northwest Territories. Currently a graduate student in the Master of Fine Arts low residency program at Emily Carr University of Art and Design, she is proud to present “I.G. Love, Hope, Joy,” a collection that celebrates and honours the Intergenerational gifts and strength that we inherit from our family, community and ancestors.
Taalrumiq was born to an Inuit Mother and Gwich’in Dene Father in a segregated Indian hospital and grew up on the shores of the Arctic Ocean. She hails from a long matrilineal line of expert Inuit seamstresses and Gwich’in creatives who sewed for survival in the arctic. Her culture, upbringing, and ancestral home deeply influence her work, which has been exhibited across Canada, in various galleries, collections and print. Notably, she has been a featured Indigenous Content Creator by TikTok Canada, and her work has appeared on the Netflix production of Avatar the Last Airbender.
“I.G. Love, Hope, Joy” is a contemporary collection that embraces traditional design elements, fashioned in Taalrumiq’s signature bold and colourful style. “I.G. Love, Hope, Joy” is a testament to the resiliency, ingenuity and beauty of her people, culture and the western arctic. We look ahead to the future with love, hope and joy.
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Nation: Saulteaux, Mohawk & Ojibway
Lindsay King is Saulteaux, Mohawk & Ojibway and is a member of her father’s First Nation, Little Grand Rapids, Manitoba. After 20 years of Indigenous Social Work and fostering children, Lindsay King boldly followed her lifelong passion for design. She went on to study fashion design and leatherwork in Toronto, Canada and Florence, Italy before launching her namesake label in 2022. Her life's work is focused on supporting women's resiliency and inspiring others to follow their dreams.
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Nation: Nishinaabe
Ocean Kiana is a Nishinaabe fashion designer and artist from Northwestern Ontario. She carries the Nishinaabe name Waabshki Memegwans, which means White Butterfly, and she belongs to the Wolf Clan. Ocean grew up on her home reserves, Biigtigong Nishnaabeg (Pic River First Nation) and Netmizaagamig Nishnaabeg (Pic Mobert First Nation), where she participated in ceremonies, powwows, and spent significant time on the land with her grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins, mother, and sister. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anishinaabe Studies with a Minor in Visual Arts from Algoma University and Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig.
Throughout her years, Ocean was actively involved in her home community of Biigtigong Nishnaabeg, working in roles dedicated to reclaiming the traditional waterways used by her ancestors. Initially, her work focused on revitalizing the Nishinaabe languages of her communities and reclaiming their traditional territories. Her deep connection with the land has shaped her into a visual arts storyteller and an interdisciplinary artist specializing in drawing, beading, and design, with a primary focus on fashion design. She loves incorporating her identity into all her designs and is passionate about making quality and sustainable pieces.
Ocean’s art is strongly influenced by her Nishinaabe territory, community, and identity, features vibrant colours and Nishinaabe florals.
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Nation: Kwakiutł | Dzawada'enuxw | Skwxwú7mesh
Collection: We Are Warriors
Rebecca is of Kwakiuł, Musgamagw Dzawada'enuxw, and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh ancestry. She is a multidisciplinary artist with a BA from the University of British Columbia. Rebecca has been creating sewn and beaded regalia since the age of eleven. She began fashion design in 2021 and apprenticed under Pam Baker. She also completed the Indigenous Couture Residency at the Banff Centre for the Arts. Rebecca debuted her first collection “Inner Ancestral Strength” at New York Fashion Week, 2022. Her collection “We are Warriors” debuted at SWAIA Fashion Show – Santa Fe Indian Market in August, 2023, followed by Vancouver Fashion Week, Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week, and Indigenous Fashion Arts Toronto. Rebecca’s fashion has been on exhibit at the Museum for Natural History in New York, the Bill Reid Gallery, Museum of Vancouver, the YVR Vancouver Airport and featured in Vogue and Elle Canada.
Night 02 Designer Showcase — Nov 21
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Nation: Yellowknives Dene (T'atsaot'ine) (Mother) & Polish (Father) NWT
Name of the Collection: Sun Fire
A Yellowknives Indigenous designer, Cheryl Fennell called on her Dene cultural DNA to bring the spirit of her bush-inspired sun fire collection to life using nature’s fabrics.
Cheryl showcases burned hide, fireweed flowers and birchbark, fish leather, rabbit, fox, bison, moosehide, caribou and minerals in her 10 haute couture pieces.
Cheryl’s collection is a journey searching for the sacredness of nature in every footstep taken. Walking this journey, you can see in these designs the fire of love that helped our ancestors survive. Together like feathers of the eagle we can return to the sacredness of nature and ignite the fire of love in our world.
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Nation: Dakota & Ojibway
My Name is Alyssia Sutherland, I’m the owner & designer of Ally’s Ribbons. I’m Dakota & Ojibway from Peguis First Nation Treaty 1 territory. The work I do is couture ribbon work. Aside from being a designer I’m also a full time mother to two little boys. Since starting my business in 2020 I’ve showcased my work in Cannes, France, New York City & dressed people from all over turtle island. With everything I’ve done I’ve always remembered to stay connected to my roots & believing in my prayers. I can’t wait to see where these ribbons take me.
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Nation: Anishnaabe
Tracy Toulouse is Anishnaabe (Ojibway) apparel & accessories brand. Proud member of Sagamok Anishnaabek in Northern Ontario, Canada. Tracy’s artistic vision incorporates authentic Woodland storytelling motifs with modern clothing design dedicated to quality, comfort, and identifiable style. Tracy’s mode infuses applique, leather, fur, birchbark, beadwork and ribbonwork. Each design carries the tradition and spirit of the Woodland Indigenous people.
As part of cultural reclamation Tracy leads youth empowerment workshops in First Nation communities across turtle island. The “Rise Up Through Empowerment & Fashion” workshop has been helping Indigenous youth raise their self confidence, build on their creative expression, and feel the possibilities within non-traditional artsbased careers.
Paris, London, U.S and Canada; Tracy has reached many audiences internationally & can always be found popping up at fashion shows, events & tradeshows. Tracy’s original line Swirling Wind continues to appeal to a wide market who support the Indigenous spirit including her community favorites Biiskiwaagan fur parkas, collectable purse lines and signature floral work. Tracy’s designs reinforce the Indigenous spirit and our connection to the land, showcasing this spirit in a wearable voice to be heard and felt by all.
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Nation: Métis
Amy McPherson is an emerging Métis designer from Manitoba Canada. Her collection tells a story of the history of the Métis people and how their lands were stolen from them by forging their signatures to sign away the land they were living on. She uses fine detailed work in her designs such as two needle beading, caribou hair tufting and silk thread embroidery. The documents utilized in the collection come directly from her families genealogy including scrip from The Department of the Interior Canadas North West Half-Breed Commission dating back to the 1800’s.
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Nation: Anishinaabe
Jillian Waterman, an Anishinaabe artist and fashion designer, creates unique pieces blending traditional Anishinaabe Knowledge and natural fiber art with contemporary design. Her work has been showcased at prestigious events including multiple New York Fashion Weeks, Michigan Fashion Week, Swaia Fashion Week and Indigenous Fashion Arts.
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Nation: Anishinaabe from Temagami First Nation
Lesley Hampton is an Anishinaabe artist and fashion designer focused on mental wellness and body neutrality in fashion through the lens of the Indigenous worldview. Lesley is a member of Temagami First Nation, and she identifies as an adult 'Third Culture Kid' with her formative years spent in Canada's Arctic and Atlantic, Australia, England, Indonesia, and New Caledonia. This amalgamation of her Anishinaabe Indigeneity and her international upbringing nurtured a passion for socio-cultural causes as she uses her work as a catalyst for research, conversation, and community building.
Named in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Local: Toronto list and the number one Canadian brand to keep your eye on by VOGUE, Lesley has styled campaigns for the Toronto Raptors, modelled for Nike, created custom designs for The Toronto Maple Leafs, and has been a Guest judge on Canada's Drag Race.
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Nation: Northern Tutchone/Tlingit
Kaylyn Baker is a Northern Tutchone/Tlingit designer based out of Whitehorse, Yukon. Her designs stem from memories, stories, the land, feelings & even people. Kaylyn's style of working through designs allows herself to freely think of whatever inspires her in that very moment, resulting in bright contrasts of colour & textures while blending tradition with contemporary. Through what she calls beaded storytelling she's found a way to carry on traditions, make her grandparents proud, & showcase her favourite moments throughout her life through combination of fashion illustrated poetry, all showing her children that it's okay to try new things & to follow their dreams.
Night 03 Designer Showcase — Nov 22
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Girls Who Leap
Girls Who LEAP: Lead to Empower & Act with Purpose is a registered non-profit volunteer-run society that provides leadership and mentorship opportunities as well as wrap-around support for self-identifying young women; including indigenous, two-spirited, LGBTQQIA+, vulnerable and at-risk youth in the Downtown Eastside and Grandview Woodlands communities. GWL believes that promotion of community engagement, prevention and early intervention are key methods to bring about positive social change.
Kevin Gosnell
Nation: Nisga’a
Kevin Gosnell is a multi-talented artist hailing from the Nisga’a nation. As a young two spirit individual, Kevin embraces his unique identity and uses it as a driving force behind his creative endeavors. With a deep passion for self-expression, Kevin is not only an accomplished artist but also an aspiring fashion designer, makeup artist, and drag performer. Born and raised in the village formerly known as Gitlax̱t'aamiks, Kevin takes great pride in his heritage and the rich cultural traditions of the Nisga’a people. He is a member of the esteemed frog/raven tribe and belongs to the house of Axdi Wil Luugooda, which carries the profound meaning of "never empty." Kevin's artistic journey began at a young age, where he discovered his love for visual arts, fashion, and performance. With a keen eye for detail and a flair for creativity, he honed his skills as an artist, capturing the essence of his two spirit identity through various mediums. Inspired by his diverse interests, Kevin sets out to break boundaries and challenge societal norms through his art. He envisions using fashion as a platform to celebrate individuality and promote inclusivity. As a makeup artist, he strives to enhance beauty in all its forms and empower others to express their true selves fearlessly. And as a drag artist, Kevin aims to captivate audiences with his unique performances, bringing joy and entertainment while pushing the boundaries of gender and identity. Kevin's journey is one of self-discovery, resilience, and unapologetic self-expression. Through his artistry, he aspires to make a positive impact, not only within his community but also in the broader world. With boundless creativity and unwavering determination, Kevin is poised to leave an indelible mark on the creative landscape as he continues to explore, innovate, and inspire.
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Nation: Blackfoot, Piikani
Naatsikapamatoosin TwoSmudge - Matthew Provost, is a Siksikaitsitapii (Blackfoot) designer, printmaker, beader, and visual artist from the Piikani Nation within the Blackfoot Confederacy. Matthew utilizes research as a component of design to recreate contemporary elements of Blackfoot imagery into his designs along with functional workwear components.
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Nation: Apsáalooke & Amskapi Piikani
Angela Howe of Choke Cherry Creek is a beadwork artist, fashion designer and business owner. She is Apsáalooke and Piikuni from Montana. Angela creates clothing for the visionary and infuses designs, styles, colors and florals inspired by her Indigenous roots. Her brand Choke Cherry Creek, carries the legacy of her matriarchs and strives to empower and uplift Indigenous communities. Choke Cherry Creek’s mission is to inspire the world to see that Indigenous people are beautiful, resilient, rich in culture and are still carrying on their traditions today. She especially enjoys her passion for fashion because it is such a beautiful form of expression. Angela has been invited to showcase her array of clothing in various places including premiere runways in Las Vegas, New York Fashion Week, and Paris.
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Nation: Heiltsuk
The History Mkrs are a Heiltsuk duo that aim to collide fashion with our culture. KC and Charlie work together to tell the history of their people through art and clothing.
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Nation: Haisla
Haisla hip hop duo Darren "Young D" Metz and Quinton "Yung Trybez" Nyce, originally from Kitamaat Village, BC, known for their fun, irreverent style and pioneering First Nations hip hop.
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Nation: Nuu-Cha-Nulth / Kwakwakawakw
Alicia was born and raised in Victoria, BC, Canada. She is originally from Nuu-Chah-Nulth (Ahousaht) and Kwakwaka'wakw ( Alert Bay ) Nations, both on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. She has been living in Vancouver for the past 20 years.
Alicia became a full time artist in 2012, and since then she has gotten her one of a kind, hand painted pieces all over North America. Her pieces include: Boots, High Heels, Runners, Purses, Wallets, Belts, Jackets & Earrings. In 2018, Alicia was invited to showcase her art on the fashion runway at New York Fashion Week. The fashion show aired in September 2019 in Manhattan, New York. Her collection was called " Resilience " and portrayed a strong look dedicated to survivors and non-survivors of the Residential School System. Alicia continues to paint and design everyday and showcases her work on social media. Her goal: " To have First Nations Art in mainstream media and show everyone that we are not just in the history books but.. here today and rising "
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Angel Aubichon, Métis and Cree (Peepeekisis Cree Nation), is the 2Spirit Founder and CEO of Indi City. Raised in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan, Angel pursued her studies in the arts at the University of Saskatchewan and Mount Royal University. Indi City began as an experiment to scale Indigenous adornment and provide for her family, a vision that has since inspired over 30 Indigenous small businesses to create similar accessories.
In addition to the company’s signature high-quality laser-cut acetate earrings, which are a tribute to Angel’s Kokum, Agnes Aubichon, and her woodland floral beadwork, Indi City is also known for its tech regalia—a fusion of traditional Indigenous artistry with modern technology. Indi City’s innovative designs blend cultural elements with contemporary fashion.
Night 04 Designer Showcase — Nov 23
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Nation: Musqueam
Debra and Aleen Sparrow, a dynamic mother-daughter duo hailing from Musqueam, proudly unite their creative forces to craft a stunning fashion collection that pays homage to their Salish heritage. With a shared passion for weaving, they have seamlessly transitioned their intricate designs onto clothing, melding traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion. Drawing inspiration from the rich Salish textiles, Aleen and Debra are committed to preserving the essence of their culture through their collection. Every garment is a testament to their dedication to using all-natural fibers, reflecting their reverence for the environment and ancestral traditions. Debra Sparrow, a masterful weaver with decades of experience, brings authenticity to every stitch. Her intricate designs are a window into the history and stories of the Musqueam people. Each piece embodies the spirit of resilience and wisdom passed down through generations. Aleen Sparrow, a visionary artist, brings a modern twist to Salish patterns, infusing them with her unique perspective. Her innate talent for weaving translates effortlessly into fashion, resulting in garments that are not just pieces of clothing, but living works of art. Together, they create a collection that transcends mere clothing; it's a tribute to their culture, a celebration of craftsmanship, and a statement of sustainability. Debra and Aleen Sparrow invite you to experience the magic of Salish textiles, woven with love and reverence, and to join them on a journey that melds tradition and modernity in the world of fashion.
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Nation: Kwakiutl
Scarlet Delirium is a Port Coquitlam based Kwakiutl designer and performer guaranteed to make your head spin.
Since graduating from Capilano University’s Costuming for Stage & Screen program in 2015, the official Panty Auntie of BC Burlesque has been designing for herself and her community, and her creations have been teased and tested on stages all over Turtle Island. As an artist, she prides herself on sharing Good Medicine with audiences, painting the town red, and leaving them wondering which way is up.
Scarlet’s burlesque background informs her design aesthetic, which is a compelling marriage of strut and smut: combining showgirl glam, Kwakiutl cool, and a dash of old-fashioned raunch.
Her intricate, imaginative designs showcase her philosophy that everyone—especially Indigenous people—deserve to be desirable and powerful in their clothes… or out of them.
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Nation: Snuneymuxw First Nation
Ay Lelum is a second generation Coast Salish Design House located on the Snuneymuxw First Nation in Nanaimo, BC. Sisters, Aunalee and Sophia, design and produce garments at their facility and storefront, mentored in fashion design by their Mother, Sandra Moorhouse-Good. Ay Lelum manufactures ready wear collections in Vancouver, BC using eco-friendly fabrics whenever possible and creates Couture in house. They collaborate with and feature traditional Coast Salish artwork by their brother Joel Good and Father Dr. William Good, in the traditional Snuneymuxw art style. They incorporate family designs into fabric patterns for their collections and utilize eco-friendly fabrics, making their couture pieces in Nanaimo and manufacturing ready wear in Vancouver. Each collection is inspired by family artwork and cultural teachings by their Father, while following strict cultural protocols and hul’q’minum' Law to create a modern form of Storytelling through garment design. They record their own music as part of the design process and are verified Spotify Artists. Ay Lelum was awarded a 2018 Indigenous Business of the Year Award through the BC Achievement Foundation and are recipients of the 2021 Excellence in Culture Award through the City of Nanaimo. Ay Lelum also have Original Original and Authentic Indigenous accreditation, as well as are CCAB Members.
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Nation: Cree / Dene
Osamuskwasis is a Cree / Dene woman from pigeon lake Alberta Canada in treaty no. 6 territory. She comes from a wonderful family of artists, dancers and singers. Her love for her culture shines through her intricate and colourful designs and palettes. Her work focuses on the beauty of her cree and dene cultures and she brings the stories to life through fashion.
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Nation: Inuit
April Allen, a contemporary Inuk artist and designer from Rigolet, Nunatsiavut, intricately weaves her Inuit heritage into every design as the creative mind behind "Stitched by April." Drawing inspiration from her culture, April's passion for traditional crafts is palpable in her meticulous attention to detail. Her journey in the artistic realm began with observing her mother's skilled hands, fostering a deep connection to her culture's crafts of beading, and sewing.
Since 2022, April has been a prominent figure in the Indigenous artistic community, showcasing her work at prestigious events like Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week. She takes immense pride in presenting her designs on such renowned platforms. Continually driven by innovation, April explores new designs while passionately sharing her craft with Indigenous youth across Northern Canada virtually. By incorporating her designs into her teachings, she aims to inspire and promote healing through artistic expression, fostering connections with the younger generation.
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Nation: hunkpapa/Itazipco Lakota/Dakota
Kayla Looking Horse-Smith is hunkpapa/Itazipco Lakota/Dakota from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. Her heritage is artfully woven into her designs. K.lookinghorse is a contemporary brand that honors the designer’s heritage with an aesthetic specific to her tiospaye' (family). Her signature symbols, three lines Horizontal pays homage to the past, present and future. Forging her own path by creating iconic printed dresses and signature jackets which are the cornerstone of the K. Lookinghorse brand.
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Traditional Name: Himikalas
Nation: Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, Musgamagw Dzawada'enuxw, Kwakiuł, and Tlingit.
Pam Baker is of Squamish ancestry on her father’s side and is of Musgamagw Dzawada'enuxw/ Kwakiuł/Tlingit ancestry on her mother’s side. Many years ago, she began a lifelong search to provide First Nations people a stage to showcase their culture and mentor indigenous youth and work with her First Nations communities.
In regards to textiles and clothing for hot weather, Himikalas attended Capilano University where she trained in the Textile Arts Program. What breathes and what would be appropriate for office wear.
As a single mother Himikalas moved with her two sons age 4 and 10 to Los Angeles, California to study at Otis College of Art and Design where she obtained her degree in Fashion Design. Her newly acquired degree provided here with the technical skills and business acumen to focus on designing a future honoring her ancestors. Baker started creating her own unique fashion and jewelry with her First Nation West Coast design. She recently completed the FIND program at The Wilson School of Design at KPU, and graduated top of the class. Where she has updated her skills in Photoshop and Illustrator as well as am now a certified operator a laser cutter.
Baker has been showcasing her one-of-a-kind pieces since 1988, as well as coordinating fashion shows and models since then. Himikalas was also selected as one of the top 3 designers in Canada to design for the 2010 Olympics Fashion show and designed regalia for our Squamish representatives for the opening ceremonies. Pam has also owned T.O.C.N.T.I fashion school, and Copperknot Jewelry and Touch of Culture since 1988 and is now collaborating with Roz Stanton in designing metal art.
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