Indigenous Fashion Show Shatters Stereotypes with Jaw-Dropping Designs at Hood Museum!

Brace yourself for the ultimate cultural extravaganza that rocked the Hood Museum of Art on Oct. 17! The Indigenous People’s Fashion Show turned heads with 19 student models flaunting 20 jaw-dropping outfits, all crafted by talented Indigenous designers. Talk about a fashion revolution!

What started in 2019 as a vision of Jami Powell, curator of Indigenous Art, has now become a cultural celebration like no other. "After a year at the College, I saw students tirelessly promoting inclusivity and dealing with Indigenous issues," said Powell. Recognizing their desire to share their rich culture, she and the students created an event that’s all about honoring the artistic genius and unbreakable spirit of Indigenous communities.

This ain’t your average fashion show! It’s a full-blown, grassroots student-led spectacle that evolves every year, thanks to the dazzling contributions from the likes of the Native Americans at Dartmouth. Students took the reins, crafting outfits and rallying models. Behind-the-scenes masterminds like Abby Burgess ’25 and Yazmyn Azure ’23 coordinated the wild crew, channeling all their creativity into handmade ensembles.

Forget typical runways; this one’s not confined by themes! The mystical fusion of Indigenous arts and fashion defies conventions. Crafted pieces from Indigenous designers – some family-made, some bought from Indigenous brands – dominated the scene. In touch with tradition, a lot of what hit the runway were heartfelt gifts exchanged among students and family, creating lasting bonds.

Wamniomni Cikala Afraid of Hawk ’27 came out strong with the "Language Warrior Hoodie," etched with family names in Lakota script. "I wanted something to wear my family around; this was perfect to showcase," he shared with pride. Meanwhile, Azure’s magical creations, from a chic red set to an intricately ribboned linen shirt, captured hearts.

Talk about artistic reconnection! For Azure, this creative journey is all about healing and decolonizing. We’re not just talking clothes here; this is wearable art with heart. The Crafting and Beading Circle and the Native American House, the hubs of creativity, provided students with the tools and spaces to bring their visions to life.

Tired of stereotypes? Get ready for the real deal! "A Native person isn’t always about headdresses and feathers," said Burgess, dispelling outdated images. This show lets Indigenous fashion speak for itself – modern, authentic, and utterly breathtaking.

But why stop at just a fashion show? For Afraid of Hawk, it’s about making a mark in a world that wasn’t always inclusive. It’s about stamping cultural identity on fashion’s grand stage. What’s not to love? Dive into the brilliantly vibrant world of the Indigenous People’s Fashion Show and feel the pulse of true cultural expression!