The new platform, the Indigenous Fashion Collective, is designed to elevate and celebrate Indigenous culture, creativity, couture, and collaboration on a global scale.
Spearheaded by influential figures such as Twila True, Lillian Sparks Robinson, and Sarah Eagle Heart, the newly formed Indigenous Fashion Collective is committed to fostering growth, authenticity, and socio-economic empowerment within the Indigenous fashion community. The initiative spotlights Indigenous talents and stories through its inaugural Indigenous Fashion Gala slated to take place in November 2024.
The Indigenous Fashion Collective’s Advisory Board boasts accomplished members from tribal nations and the fashion industry, including Quannah Chasinghorse, Cora Kay Chandler, Jontay Kahm, Patricia Michaels, Jamie Schulze, and Crystal Williams. The collaboration underscores a collective vision to highlight the beauty, ingenuity, and genius of Indigenous fashion and designers, whose contributions have often been overlooked.
The Collective invites both Indigenous and non-Indigenous designers, artisans, educators, advocates, and allies to join its mission of building a more inclusive and sustainable future for Indigenous fashion. Membership offers access to exclusive events, resources, and opportunities for collaboration and professional development, laying the groundwork for a transformative impact on the fashion industry and beyond.
Twila True, a co-founder of the Collective, brings her extensive international experience in manufacturing, distribution, and influencer brand building with celebrities to the Indigenous fashion scene. “I’m excited to utilize my international experience in manufacturing and distribution, as well as to bring my deep knowledge of influencer brand building with celebrities like Whoopi Goldberg and Katy Perry x Twila True Fine Jewelry to the Indigenous fashion industry,” True said in a statement.
Lillian Sparks Robinson, co-founder of the Collective, emphasized the organization’s mission, “The Indigenous Fashion Collective was established to celebrate the beauty, ingenuity, and genius of Indigenous fashion and the community of designers whose talents often go unrecognized. We aim to increase visibility and brand recognition for our members with deep appreciation for the work, stories, and culture incorporated in Indigenous design.”
Central to the Collective’s mission are initiatives focused on promoting Indigenous designers, advocating for cultural rights, providing education and training, preserving cultural craftsmanship, advocating for sustainability, and facilitating collaboration and networking within the industry. These efforts aim to ensure that Indigenous voices are heard and respected, while also promoting sustainable and ethical practices.
Sarah Eagle Heart, another co-founder, highlighted the importance of the Collective’s work. “We are honored to amplify and champion Indigenous expertise in the fashion landscape, while fostering partnerships with global brands and advocating for Indigenous peoples,” she said.
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