In the heart of Las Vegas, on March 12, 2025, the Reservation Economic Summit (RES) hosted one of the most anticipated events in Indigenous fashion: the 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show. Held at the iconic Drai's Nightclub, this year's show was themed "Elevated Elegance: The Return of Grace and Glam," a fitting tribute to the cultural richness and creative genius of Native American designers. This event marked a milestone in the fashion world, blending tradition with modernity and showcasing the extraordinary talent of Indigenous designers on a global stage.
The Vision Behind the Show
The 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show was more than just a display of clothing; it was a celebration of identity, heritage, and innovation. The theme "Elevated Elegance: The Return of Grace and Glam" was chosen to reflect the sophistication and cultural depth that Indigenous designers bring to the fashion industry. The event was a testament to the Beyond Boundaries theme of the 2025 RES conference, emphasizing the limitless potential of Indigenous creativity and entrepreneurship.
By providing a platform for Native designers to showcase their work, the fashion show not only highlighted their artistic brilliance but also underscored the importance of preserving and celebrating Indigenous culture in the modern world. Each collection told a story, weaving together traditional motifs, contemporary styles, and the unique perspectives of their creators.
Meet the Designers
The 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show featured an impressive lineup of talented designers, each bringing their own unique vision to the runway. Below, we delve into the standout collections that captivated the audience and left a lasting impression.
1. Sky-Eagle Collection by Dante Biss-Grayson
Headlining the show was the Sky-Eagle Collection, led by the renowned Osage designer Dante Biss-Grayson. Known for his ability to merge modern couture with Indigenous storytelling, Biss-Grayson's collection was nothing short of breathtaking. Each piece in the Sky-Eagle Collection was a masterful blend of traditional Osage aesthetics and contemporary fashion, creating a look that was both timeless and cutting-edge.
Biss-Grayson's designs often draw inspiration from his Osage heritage, incorporating intricate patterns and symbols that hold deep cultural significance. Yet, his work is far from nostalgic; instead, it pushes the boundaries of fashion, challenging conventional norms and redefining elegance. The Sky-Eagle Collection was a powerful reminder of the innovative spirit of Indigenous designers and their ability to transcend cultural and temporal boundaries.
2. Choke Cherry Creek by Angela Howe-Parrish
Angela Howe-Parrish, the creative force behind Choke Cherry Creek, brought a fresh and vibrant perspective to the runway. Her collection was a celebration of the natural world, inspired by the landscapes and traditions of her Indigenous roots. With a focus on sustainability and ethical fashion, Howe-Parrish's designs highlighted the importance of responsible practices in the fashion industry.
Choke Cherry Creek's collection was characterized by bold colors, organic textures, and a deep connection to the land. Each piece told a story of resilience, adaptability, and the enduring connection between Indigenous communities and their environments. Howe-Parrish's work not only showcased her artistic talent but also served as a powerful statement about the importance of preserving cultural traditions and environmental sustainability.
3. K. LOOKINGHORSE by Kayla Lookinghorse
Kayla Lookinghorse, the visionary behind K. LOOKINGHORSE, brought a modern, edgy vibe to the runway. Her collection was a fusion of traditional Indigenous elements and contemporary streetwear, creating a look that was both bold and sophisticated. Lookinghorse's designs are known for their bold graphics, striking color combinations, and unapologetic celebration of Indigenous identity.
What set K. LOOKINGHORSE apart was its ability to bridge the gap between high fashion and wearable art. Each piece was not only visually stunning but also deeply personal, reflecting Lookinghorse's own experiences and perspectives as an Indigenous designer. Her collection was a testament to the diversity and innovation of Indigenous fashion, proving that traditional influences can be reimagined in fresh and exciting ways.
4. Brocade by Brocade Stops Black Eagle
Brocade Stops Black Eagle, the mastermind behind the Brocade label, presented a collection that was nothing short of opulent. Known for his exquisite attention to detail and his ability to craft intricate, hand-beaded designs, Stops Black Eagle's work is a celebration of the artistry and craftsmanship that define Indigenous fashion.
The Brocade collection was a homage to the rich textile traditions of Indigenous cultures, with each piece featuring intricate beadwork, embroidery, and other traditional techniques. Yet, Stops Black Eagle's designs were far from static; they were dynamic, modern, and deeply personal. His collection was a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of Indigenous art forms in the contemporary fashion world.
5. Ay Lelum - The Good House of Design
Rounding out the lineup was Ay Lelum - The Good House of Design, a collective that embodies the spirit of collaboration and community. This design house, founded by sisters Aileen and Dorothy Grant, has been a fixture in Indigenous fashion for years, and their 2025 collection did not disappoint.
Ay Lelum's designs are deeply rooted in the traditions of their Haida Nation heritage, yet they are infused with a modern sensibility that makes them accessible to a wide audience. The collection featured bold, graphic prints, luxurious textiles, and a palette of colors that reflected the natural beauty of the Haida Gwaii region. Each piece was a testament to the enduring legacy of Haida art and culture, reimagined for the 21st century.
The Cultural Significance of Indigenous Fashion
The 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show was more than just a showcase of beautiful clothes; it was a celebration of Indigenous culture, identity, and resilience. Fashion has long been a powerful medium for self-expression and cultural preservation, and Indigenous designers are leading the way in this movement.
For centuries, Indigenous communities have used clothing and textiles as a means of storytelling, passing down traditions, and asserting their identity. Today, Indigenous designers are drawing on these rich cultural traditions to create fashion that is both deeply personal and universally relevant. By blending traditional motifs with modern styles, they are challenging stereotypes and redefining what it means to be Indigenous in the contemporary world.
The 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show was a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and the role that fashion can play in this process. Each collection was not only a work of art but also a testament to the enduring strength and creativity of Indigenous communities. By celebrating these designers and their work, the fashion show helped to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous culture, both within and beyond the Indigenous community.
The Impact of the Show on the Fashion Industry
The 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show was not just a local event; it was a global phenomenon, with designers and attendees from all over the world. The show's impact extended far beyond the runway, sending shockwaves through the fashion industry and challenging conventional norms and standards.
One of the most significant contributions of the show was its emphasis on diversity and inclusion. In an industry that has long been dominated by a narrow and exclusionary definition of beauty, the Indigenous Fashion Show offered a refreshing alternative. By showcasing the work of Indigenous designers and models, the show helped to challenge these norms and promote a more inclusive vision of fashion.
The show also highlighted the importance of sustainability and ethical practices in the fashion industry. Many of the designers featured in the show emphasized the use of sustainable materials, ethical production methods, and environmentally responsible practices. This focus on sustainability was not only a reflection of the values of the Indigenous community but also a response to the growing demand for ethical fashion among consumers.
Perhaps most importantly, the 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show provided a platform for Indigenous designers to gain visibility and recognition in the global fashion industry. For many of these designers, the show was an opportunity to showcase their work to a wider audience, connect with industry professionals, and gain the support and resources they need to grow their businesses. By providing this platform, the show helped to level the playing field and create new opportunities for Indigenous designers to succeed.
A Look to the Future
As the 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show came to a close, it was clear that this event was not just a moment in time but a movement. The show was a powerful statement about the strength and resilience of Indigenous communities, the importance of cultural preservation, and the boundless creativity of Indigenous designers.
Looking ahead, the success of the 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show serves as a reminder of the potential for Indigenous fashion to continue to grow and thrive. With increased visibility, support, and recognition, Indigenous designers are poised to make an even greater impact on the global fashion industry. By continuing to celebrate and promote Indigenous fashion, we can help to ensure that these designers have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
Moreover, the show highlighted the importance of collaboration and community in the fashion industry. By working together and supporting one another, Indigenous designers and their allies can create a more inclusive and equitable industry that reflects the diversity and richness of Indigenous cultures. The 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we come together to celebrate and promote Indigenous excellence.
Conclusion
The 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show was a groundbreaking event that showcased the best of Indigenous fashion and culture. From the stunning Sky-Eagle Collection by Dante Biss-Grayson to the vibrant designs of K. LOOKINGHORSE, the show was a testament to the creativity, innovation, and resilience of Indigenous designers. By blending traditional motifs with modern styles, these designers redefined elegance and challenged conventional norms in the fashion industry.
More than just a fashion show, the event was a celebration of Indigenous identity, cultural preservation, and the enduring strength of Indigenous communities. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of promoting diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in the fashion industry and beyond. As we look to the future, the success of the 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, proving that Indigenous fashion is not just a trend but a movement that is here to stay.
For those who missed the show, the impact of the 2025 RES Indigenous Fashion Show will be felt for years to come. It was a moment of triumph, a celebration of culture, and a testament to the boundless potential of Indigenous creativity. As we continue to support and celebrate Indigenous designers, we can help to ensure that their voices are heard and their contributions are recognized on the global stage.
