This collaboration marks a milestone for the fashion industry, one that exemplifies collaboration with Indigenous designers. What initiated this project was the shared values between IFWTO and Simons. By joining forces, we saw an opportunity to implement Indigenous leadership in how we, Indigenous people, are represented in the fashion industry, to support and value Indigenous expression and craftsmanship, and to promote local, sustainable fashion practices.

What has come to be known as “Indigenous fashion” is actually a diverse multiplicity of nations, culture, creativity, and generational knowledge. To have the work of a group of Indigenous designers from across the country of all ages and disciplines celebrated on a mainstream platform like Simons is truly a gift for all. Red ochre dye from Canada's arctic, Anishinaabe floral designs interpreted in three different ways, contemporary interpretations of formline art and Metis weaving, delicate Haudenosaunee beadwork, and Mi'kmaq quillwork reimagined into digital graphics—each designer brings a unique perspective that embodies the vibrant breadth of knowledge and craft passed on to them. The designers of this project include Caroline Monnet (Anishnaabe-French, Montreal, Que.), Evan Ducharme (Metis, Vancouver, B.C.), Cheryl and Carissa Copenace (Anishinaabe, Rainy River First Nations, Ont.), Jordan Bennett (Mi'kmaq, Terence Bay, N.S.), Niio Perkins (Haudenosaunee, Akwesasne, Que.), Tania Larsson (Gwich'in, Yellowknife, N.W.T.), Tracy Toulouse (Ojibway, Sudbury, Ont.), and Warren Steven Scott (Nlaka'pamux, Toronto, Ont.).

I am filled with joy with how this project celebrates community collaboration and brought so many together. Thank you to each of the designers for being a vital part of our community and for being the key part of this journey. Thank you to all Indigenous creators for sustaining our culture through fashion and the arts. And thank you to the Indigenous Fashion Week Toronto team—Kerry Swanson and Heather Haynes—and Oceane Stanislas and the entire Simons team for your commitment to presenting and supporting Indigenous artists and designers.

Nezo, Mahsi cho,

Sage Paul
Artistic Director
Indigenous Fashion Week Toronto