A Spotlight on Indigenous Luxury

The evolution of Native luxury is breaking barriers, as the cover of the October issue of British Vogue demonstrated to the world. ?

British Vogue's October issue takes a refreshing dive into Native American heritage, featuring Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio and his "Killers of the Flower Moon" co-star, Lily Gladstone. This Craig McDean-lensed editorial is a testament to the quiet power of storytelling deeply rooted in history as creations by Indigenous artists adorned the actors alongside established luxury brands like Loro Piana and Alexander McQueen.??

The cover story showcases a fascinating blend of craftsmanship and cultural significance.??

A Spotlight on Indigenous Luxury ????

?? Jokuma: Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Jamie Okuma (Luise?o/Shoshone-Bannock), whose creations held in collections by the Smithsonian, Metropolian Museum of Art and notable museums and galleries across the US. Each piece is a testament to her artistry and commitment to preserving Native heritage and her collections sell out within minutes of their digital release.

?? Elais Jade Not Afraid: Witness the masterpieces by Elais Jade Not Afraid (Apsaalooké), whose work also finds a place in the Smithsonian. His art transcends boundaries, reflecting a profound connection to his roots in pieces such as cradleboards and ledger art but looks to the future with his apparel and make-up collaborations. His materials include vintage glass beads, dentalium shells and elk teeth are all hand selected and painstakingly worked into vibrant wearable art pieces.

?? Pat Pruitt Metalsmith: Discover the artistry of Pat Pruitt (Laguna, Chiricahua Apache and Anglo decent), a metalsmith crafting pieces that seamlessly blend tradition and innovation reimaging traditional shapes and forms in Zirconium, Titanium, and Stainless Steel. His creations are a celebration of Native craftsmanship and future forward design.

?? Ataumbi Metals: Delve into the world of Keri Ataumbi (Kiowa), whose jewellery in her own words meld “materials that are considered valuable in the non-Native world with materials that are considered precious to the Native community... My work speaks to the value systems that different cultures put upon materials and adornment.”

?? Manitobah Mukluks: Manitobah Mukluks, is an established footwear and outerwear brand and PE-backed B-Corp a brand that was founded by Métis entrepreneur, Sean McCormick in 1997. Alongside the main collections, The Indigenous Market helps Indigenous artists share their stories and products with customers from around the world. For every unique Indigenous-made product sold through the Indigenous Market, 100% of the profits go back to the artists. Artists are also supported with mentoring, marketing, and B2B networking.

It's not just about style; it's a celebration of culture, heritage, and the untold stories behind each creation. The battle of 'craft' vs 'art' is transforming, thanks to visionaries like Christian Allaire, whose work amplifies Native American style in global spaces like Vogue US and his booked The Power of Style: How Fashion and Beauty Are Being Used to Reclaim Cultures published in 2021.?A recent sneak-peak of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s upcoming exhibit “Women Dressing Women” saw a dress by Jamie Okuma (Luise?o/Shoshone-Bannock) front and centre.??