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Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.

Indigenous Designers Are Driving Brands to Collaborate, Not Appropriate

Though appropriation of Native art and traditions still exists in fashion, more brands are finding ways to ethically work with Native designers and communities.
Ralph Lauren's artist-in-residence program is an example of ethical collaboration with Native designers and artists.
Ralph Lauren's artist-in-residence program is an example of ethical collaboration with Native designers and artists. (Courtesy Ralph Lauren)
By
  • Petala Ironcloud

When Valentino debuted its pre-fall 2025 collection at the end of last year, the Indigenous community quickly took note.

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Further Reading

The Rise of the Indigenous Model

The four years since Quannah ChasingHorse was discovered by a Calvin Klein scouting director have seen a wave of Native talent appear on magazine covers and in high-profile shows. But for an industry that’s coasted on lazy depictions of Indigenous culture, old habits die hard.

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