Join us for insightful Indigenous fashion panels, where industry leaders and influencers discuss the intersection of culture, design, and fashion. Engage with experts and explore the rich creativity and innovation of Indigenous fashion.
Open to all, non-ticketed. Livestreamed @nativefashionweeksantafe.
Building Indigenous Brands: Entrepreneurship in Fashion (11AM-11:45)
Join moderator Christian Allaire (Vogue) and panelists Michelle Brown (8th Generation) and
Lesley Hampton as they discuss the opportunities, challenges, and pathways to success in
building Indigenous-owned fashion brands. This conversation explores entrepreneurship through
a Native lens, highlighting models of leadership, innovation, media, and community impact.
The Language of Native Design (11:45-12:30)
Moderated by Lara Evans (First Peoples Fund), this panel features acclaimed designers
Dorothy Grant and Rebecca Baker-Grenier in a conversation about the depth and significance
of Native design languages, with a focus on formline aesthetics. From cultural symbolism to
contemporary interpretation, the discussion will explore how Indigenous identities are embedded
in design through material, shape, and story. Dorothy Grant will also share insights from her
newly released book, An Endless Thread, with a book signing to follow on site.
Cutting Edge: Indigenous Innovation in Wearable Art (12:30-1:15 PM)
Kelly Holmes (Native Max Magazine) moderates a conversation with visionary artists
Nonamey and Jeremy Arviso of Original Landlords. This dynamic discussion dives into how
Indigenous designers are pushing boundaries in streetwear, multimedia, and cultural
storytelling—breaking molds and creating new lanes for Indigenous creativity.
Front Row: Steven Kolb and Jamie Okuma (1:15PM-2PM)
This conversation features Steven Kolb (CEO of the Council of Fashion Designers of
America) and acclaimed designer Jamie Okuma, moderated by Native Fashion Week Santa Fe
Director and Curator Amber-Dawn Bear Robe. Together, they reflect on the growing
recognition of Indigenous fashion within the industry, symbolized by Okuma’s historic role as
the first Native American designer to become a CFDA member.