Before Paris. Before Milan. Before New York — fashion was here.

From couture to streetwear, Indigenous artistry has long shaped global style, even when the industry failed to recognize it. Indigenous designs, textiles, and cultural symbols have been at the forefront of fashion innovation, yet the creators behind these influences were often overlooked or appropriated without proper acknowledgment.

While mainstream designers frequently incorporated Indigenous-inspired patterns and aesthetics, these cultural references were often stripped of their deep historical and cultural significance. For generations, Indigenous artists, artisans, and designers were marginalized in the fashion world, denied opportunities to showcase their work on the global stage.

However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of recognition and empowerment. Indigenous designers and brands are reclaiming their narratives, bringing their unique perspectives and traditions to the forefront of fashion. With an emphasis on sustainability, time-honored techniques, and cultural storytelling, these creators are not just contributing to fashion but reshaping the industry's standards of creativity and ethics.