Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week

NATIVE FASHION DESIGNERS TO WATCH

Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week (VIFW) has once again proven to be a transformative platform for showcasing the creativity and cultural richness of Indigenous fashion designers from across Turtle Island. With over 30 talented designers gathering from different corners of the continent, VIFW offers a unique opportunity to see the fusion of tradition and modernity in the world of fashion. This year, a few designers captivated the audience in a particularly profound way: Himakalas, K. Lookinghorse, and Savage Kids.

K. Lookinghorse, a visionary designer known for her deep-rooted connection to her Lakota/Dakota heritage, made her debut at VIFW with her highly anticipated couture collection, "Written in the Stars." Traveling all the way from the Hamptons, New York, with her dynamic team—including talented Executive Assistant, A’ngelee, model, Margaret Faliano, makeup artist, Starlyn Oakes, videographer, Veronica Huerta and the renowned quill artist Kreations by Kehala. K. Lookinghorse's presentation was nothing short of breathtaking.Lesley Hampton made waves with her collection.

Savage Kids debuted by Snotty Nose Rez Kids on Indigenous Futures Night. This collection took the audience by surprise with innovative streetwear designs that combine a gothic edge with Native American narratives built in. Styled with renowned jewelry designer, Jennifer Younger Designs - this collection made waves for a new viewpoint at what it looks like to be Indigenous in the modern world.

Himakala, founded by Pam Baker, a fashion Designer/Artist/Entrepreneur of Squamish/Kwakiutl/Tlingit/Haida and owner of Touch of Culture, TOC Legends Designs. Pam’s work celebrates culture and heritage, with a strong focus on empowerment through design. Her collection made a powerful statement at Vancouver Fashion Week, where it closed the event with a breathtaking piece worn by Miss Universe Canada 2024, Ashley Callingbull, marking a significant moment in both fashion and cultural representation.

Each designer’s contribution to Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week proves that Indigenous fashion is not only alive and well, but thriving. It is a movement that will continue to inspire and influence for generations to come, shaping the future of both fashion and cultural representation in Canada.