Through four themes, the exhibition explores craftsmanship, traditions, symbols, materials, techniques, and identities among Indigenous peoples of North America. The journey spans from early European contact with Indigenous design and fashion to resistance, activism, and the restoration of traditions—while also looking toward the future, firmly rooted in the past.
For many designers, a major driving force is demonstrating that Indigenous peoples still exist despite colonization, oppression, and predictions that their cultures would disappear. The exhibition highlights a diversity of voices and perspectives from both Canada and the United States.
Traditions live on.
Native American Fashion opens with a celebration on April 11, 2025, and will be on display until November 2, 2026.