The influence of Native American culture in fashion

“Culture plays a significant role in fashion and sustainability. This position is known to unite and inspire us. However, does fashion have an obligation to be culturally aware and active? The purpose of this conversation is to demonstrate the need for cultural preservation and insight into cultural insensitivity from Native American culture. To understand why Native American culture is more significant than others, we must take a look at their history. The fashion industry continues not to give credit to the cultural origins of their products, therefore dissociating the garments from their roots. The greater part of the fashion industry does not take full responsibility for appropriating Native American culture for their own profit and inspiration and tries to encourage cultural preservation. With the slow fashion movement in full effect, there are fashion designers and businesses collaborating and recognizing Native American designers; some firms have taken the effort to showcase creations in museums. This paper will explore the importance of Native American culture, where cultural insensitivity starts, and actions we can take to set up cultural preservation within our societies. The showcase theme, Our 150-year Legacy of Excellence & Empowerment demonstrates the empowering role of culture. The impact of legacy is that it will continue to grow and motivate others to act. In a society that seeks to erase them, Native Americans continue to demonstrate their tradition of achievement and empowerment.”

— Kierkey Cantrell