David Gaussian + Wayne Nez Gaussian (Navajo / Picuris Pueblo), Postmodern Boa (2009) / #NativeFashionNow
'Diversity' in fashion waffles between
ignorance in interpretation and shoddy stereotype, frequently missing the mark
on 'true' cultural significance. For the American Indian,
misappropriation of totem poles, feathered headdresses and 'Navajo'
branded items more-often-than-not accentuates the misnomer of assumed understanding. This Spring,
the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian in NYC presents NativeFashion Now, a look at American Indian designers and their influence on fashion. Aptly expressed by Kathleen Ash-Milby, Associate curator at
the museum,“We wanted people to see that Native designers are not just subjects
but participants in the field of fashion." Keep reading to see more…
