Cultural Couture: How Native Talent is Reshaping NYFW
A Celebration of Culture, Craft, and Couture
New York Fashion Week (NYFW) is more than just a celebration of fashion—it’s a week-long fusion of creativity, culture, and innovation. Each season, designers from across the globe converge to redefine trends, challenge norms, and inspire with their artistry. But this year, a long-overdue spotlight is illuminating an often-overlooked voice in the fashion world: Native American designers and models.
As more Indigenous artists step onto this prestigious stage, we’re witnessing a profound and powerful shift. NYFW 2025 is embracing cultural authenticity, storytelling, and representation in ways we haven't seen before. From intricate beadwork and traditional symbolism to sustainability rooted in ancestral practices, Native talent is reshaping the narrative of high fashion.
Here’s a roundup of some of the most promising Native American creatives to watch at NYFW:
Designer to Watch: Kreations By Kehala
Coming from the Tuscarora Nation in New York, Kehala Greene-Smith is known for her masterful quillwork and beadwork—a legacy she is now transforming into contemporary designs with a message. Her latest collection introduces a refined color palette of mocha and gold, symbolizing Indigenous Elegance and the resilience of the modern Native woman. Each piece tells a story, blending tradition with innovation in a stunning evolution of cultural fashion.
Designer to Watch: Alicia’s Designs
Representing the Nuu-Chah-Nulth (Ahousaht) and Kwakwaka'wakw (Alert Bay) Nations of Vancouver Island, Alicia returns to NYFW following her 2018 debut. This year, her designs take a bold artistic leap forward, featuring hand-painted elements inspired by her First Nations heritage. The result - a captivating fusion of visual storytelling and wearable art, where every stroke speaks of land, spirit, and identity.
Designer to Watch: Raw Ek Bar by Shoshoni
From the Redwood-rich lands of Northern California, Shoshoni brings a soulful approach to fashion. Her line, Raw Ek Bar, integrates sustainably sourced materials with couture craftsmanship. Drawing from the natural world, including bark with healing properties, her wearable art pieces reflect both environmental consciousness and cultural heritage. It’s more than fashion—it’s a form of healing, resistance, and self-expression.
Creator’s Favorite was grateful to follow the journey through the model lens, supporting Runway7 events. Celebrating up-and-coming Native Models like Margaret Faliano, A’ngelee, Alizae Shaw, Kayla Banks, Charli Rae Hill, and Starlyn Oakes.
Stay tuned and follow us for updates on these talented designers and more breaking fashion news from NYFW.