Embark on a captivating journey through time with “Living Indigenously: Through the Culture of Fashion,” a Native fashion show honoring Indigenous Peoples Month. This unique event will explore the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous nations across the Americas, showcasing designs that bridge the past, present, and future.
Our journey begins by honoring the rich heritage of our local communities, featuring the Delaware Nanticoke Indian and New Jersey Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribal Nations, as we delve into the profound stories woven into their regalia. We then celebrate the ancestral roots of the Nahua people of Mexica through the exquisite designs of Julieta Zavala.
Looking to the future while revering those who came before us, the show culminates in the stunning elegance of designs by Kayla Lookinghorse, from Hunkpapa, Itazipco Lakota, and Dakota lineage. The event will also feature a special live performance by Nataanii Means and an opening drumming ceremony by the Red Blanket Singers. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of Indigenous culture through the art of fashion.
Don’t forget to register for the sister event on November 13 — DelArt Night: Living Indigenous(ly) — featuring the photography of Teko Alejo in the Jefferson Lobby.
Kayla Lookinghorse is the visionary force behind K.LOOKINGHORSE, an Indigenous-owned fashion brand that elegantly intertwines beauty, resilience, and a profound connection to the rich heritage of the Lakota and Dakota peoples. Her designs are not merely garments; they are narratives that reflect the strength and artistry of her ancestry.
At the heart of K.LOOKINGHORSE lies a signature symbol—the three horizontal lines—representing the continuum of past, present, and future. This emblem serves as a tribute to her cultural roots while celebrating the dynamic nature of contemporary fashion. Each collection is a vibrant tapestry of bold designs and monochromatic aesthetics, infused with unmistakable motifs that pay homage to her heritage.
What distinguishes Kayla from other designers is her deep Hunkpapa, Itazipco Lakota, and Dakota lineage, which she seamlessly weaves into every creation. Her designs are a reflection of her unique cultural identity and family traditions, with each piece resonating with the values of her tiospaye (family). The three horizontal lines are not just a design element; they are central to her work, imbuing it with meaning and depth.
As a mother, artist, designer, and tribal citizen, Kayla Lookinghorse forges her own path in the fashion world, creating iconic printed dresses and distinctive jackets. This commitment to Authentic Native American Design is the foundation of the K.LOOKINGHORSE brand, setting a new standard in Native fashion that is inclusive for all.
Explore K.LOOKINGHORSE’s latest collection to discover pieces that empower through storytelling and honor the artistry of Native culture. Each garment is a statement of history, heritage, and a vision for the future of Inspired-Native fashion, inviting you to embrace designs that celebrate the power and beauty of authentic culture in your wardrobe.
Julieta Zavala, born in Mexico City, is a fashion designer and artist based in Maryland. She studied at the Art Institute of Philadelphia and graduated as a fashion designer in 2014. Julieta has presented her fashion shows across the United States, including Chicago, Delaware, Wisconsin, New York, and Philadelphia, and has also showcased her work in Mexico City at a Gallery at Los Pinos. Her designs blend Mexican heritage ancestral roots of the Nahua people of Mexica and, contemporary style, and sustainable materials, creating unique and meaningful fashion experiences.
Nataanii Means is from the Oglala Lakota, UmoNhoN (Omaha),and Diné Nations. He is an internationally known hip hop artist. Nataanii grew up on the Navajo Nation in Chinle, Arizona. Means uses Hip Hop as a way to tell not only his stories, but stories of his people, where he is from, and a desire to bring Native artistry to the forefront. Means has performed in front of countless universities, high schools, middle schools and youth programs both nationally and internationally in Canada and Europe. Nataanii also Starred in MTV’s Rebel Music: Native America series and was in Viceland’s: Standing Rock pt ll. Means has appeared in the LA times, NY times, Billboard Magazine and The Fader Magazine’s online publication. Also appearing on nationwide talk show “The Breakfast club” and “Ebro in the morning”. Nataanii recently released an Album titled “Growth” that has garnered worldwide attention and over half a million streams on all platform”
Top: Photograph by Veronica (Vii) Huerta
