Indigenous Fashion Show Held at Dayton Arcade
The inaugural Four Winds Great Miami Indigenous Fashion Show took place at the Arcade in downtown Dayton on Sunday, November 9th, drawing designers, models, and attendees from across the nation for a powerful showcase of indigenous culture, fashion, and artistry.
Organized by Woven Winds Productions, the event aimed to highlight indigenous visibility and to create a platform for indigenous models, designers, and artists within the Midwest fashion and art scene. Through a blend of runway presentations, cultural performances, a vendors market, and indigenous cuisine, the show offered a vibrant display of creativity, resilience, and storytelling that defines indigenous artistry.
“From every direction, we gathered, bringing our voices, talents, and stories together in unity, celebration, and support through fashion and art. The show showcased to our region why indigenous visibility is so important, and vital to our community, and long overdue,” said show producer Ruby Rodfox Irwin.
Attendees described the event as inspiring and historic for the region, noting that it brought much needed attention to indigenous artists and the cultural heritage woven through their work. The Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show is expected to return next year, continuing its mission to create space for indigenous designers and artists within the larger fashion industry
Featured Artists and NAWW
One of the highlights of the event was the appearance of the Native American Women Warriors (NAWW), the nation’s first, all-female Native American color guard. Their participation added depth and emotion to the program, honoring indigenous women who have served in the military and continued to serve their communities. Their presence embodied the strength and unity of indigenous women.
Featured designer K. Lookinghorse showcased a refined fusion of traditional and contemporary indigenous design. Additional collections included Harmony Star Straub’s “Starry Nights” collection, Aaron Buffaloes debuted “Still Here,” Deborah and Katheryn Stalk of Okwarikowa Originals featured a debut line with the “Haute:denoseaunee Collection,” and finally, Deerhart Designs presented the “Endangered Species” collection.
Podcast Appearance
Ruby appeared on a recent episode of the News Maker’s podcast, presented by the Tippecanoe Gazette, which spotlighted the upcoming Four Winds Indigenous Fashion Show. Special guests Ruby Redfox and Sharon Elaine provided exclusive insights into the event’s significance, lineup, and broader aims.
Podcast hosts Greg Enslen and Abbi Heckel chatted with Redfox and Elaine about the inspirations behind the event. Redfox underscored the importance of recognizing cultural heritage, especially in the Midwest, and spoke about the large group of designers, models, dancers and vendors that were to be in attendance, flying in from all over the country. Each will share wisdom, stories, and performances reflecting their unique contributions to cultural heritage and community art.
Thanks for tuning in!
The News Makers podcast is a presentation of the Tippecanoe Gazette. For more information about the podcast or to subscribe to the newspaper, visit www.tippgazette.com. Talk soon!
