Monday, September 20, 2010

Native Fashion

As we slowly transition from summer to fall, we begin to see Native American inspirations in clothing, shoes, and accessories. I, personally, am in love with this fashion trend being, that I am part Native American. Growing up my mom would dress us in moccasins and my grandmother was always buying us jewelry with feathers and turquoise in it. This was fun when I was a little kid however it wasn't very "cool" in middle school and high school. BUT now I'm wishing that I would have held on to those things... vintageeee.

More ethnic inspired garments are appearing in Hollywood. North American Indians originally wore moccasins. Little did they know how trendy they would become!

Some designers and collections that show how the native have stimulated their creativity include Michael Kors, Proenza Schouler, Dolce & Gabanna, and Emporio Armani, just to name a few. The call of the wild was received by Michael Kors as he showcases fur covered vests, boots, and even fur bags.

"Kate Moss knows how to make it in the industry- you must stay on top of the game. She was spotted in London with an armful of fashion mags looking like a modern day Pocahontas. Genius for the supermodel to twin her knee-high Minnetonka moccasins with a pair of denim cutoffs. While she bares skin on her bottom half, a nubby sweater and signature fur jacket keep her warm-up top" (Celebrity Style).

"An ethnic look can also collaborate with a more modern, waist length, leather, Burberry jacket with a wool covered collar. Native Americans were smart in using everything the land had to offer, to not only survive or keep their bodies warm but also to adorn their bodies. This fall expects rings, bangles, necklaces, and earrings in the form of feathers, tusks, rocks, and even different shades of stones" (The Examiner).

So go wild this fall, adorn yourself with gifts from the earth, throw your hair in an effortless side braid, be exotically natural, "paint with all the colors of the wind" and as always embrace your beauty no matter what you are wearing.

Friday, September 17, 2010

Even People on Acid can't get Down like this



I use to go to powwows when I was young and loved it. I would fearlessly walk into the arena to dance and sing, but my favorite part was staring at all the beautiful performers and watching them dance. It's not a typical event of course, but, whenever we had the opportunity to go - it was always a good time. Something about the atmosphere - it made me feel free to do whatever I wanted whether it's singing, dancing, or even dressing in bright colored feathers. We all knew that no one would judge. Native Americans take pride in their dances and dancing is the norm, standing on the sidelines watching, is not.

Thinking about it, powwows are similar to modern-day music festivals. Native Americans ventured for these events and lodged in teepees, today people travel from all over and stay in tents. Native Americans used fire and smoke for their "light show," today smoke and lights are used in similar (more advanced ways). They used drums for bass and dance for hours - we have many different forms of "bass" and dance for hours (with our hands in the air like we just don't care). It's a bit of a stretch, but I feel like there are a few similarities. However, when people see stuff like the video above many think that its weird and uncivilized and that is their opinion to make.

Personally, I think it's really beautiful.