Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week (VIFW) has emerged as a premier event that celebrates the rich tapestry of Indigenous fashion design, honoring over 30 designers and 40 artisans and vendors from across Turtle Island (North America). This annual celebration not only serves as a platform for showcasing the exceptional talent within the Indigenous fashion community but also as a powerful avenue for representation and cultural exchange.

Uplifting Indigenous Voices and Fostering Inclusivity

Bridging the Gap: Reaching Beyond the Indigenous Community

While the event has garnered a strong following within the Indigenous community, the organizers are determined to expand its reach and engage a wider audience. "Almost all of the people who go to Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week are Indigenous, which is amazing," says Inez Cook, co-founder and owner of the Vancouver-based restaurants Salmon n' Bannock. "But, we'd really like the rest of the world to know and celebrate, as well." This sentiment underscores the event's mission to foster greater understanding and appreciation for Indigenous fashion, design, and culture.

Cultivating a Sense of Community and Belonging

At the heart of VIFW lies a deep commitment to creating a space where Indigenous designers, artisans, and community members can come together in a spirit of celebration and empowerment. "VIFW is one of the only opportunities for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to gather in honour of these things in a way that's centred in joy and celebration," says Joleen Mitton, the founder of the event.

Embracing Sustainability and Circular Fashion

Sustainability and ethical practices are integral to the ethos of VIFW, with many participating designers embracing the principles of circular fashion. Yolonda Skelton of Suglit Lukxs Design, a longtime participant, emphasizes the importance of this approach, stating, "For the last, almost three years, I have been working toward having my whole collection upcycled." This commitment to sustainability not only aligns with Indigenous values but also resonates with a growing global movement towards more conscious and responsible fashion.

Nurturing the Next Generation of Indigenous Designers

VIFW's vision extends beyond the current event, as the organizers are dedicated to fostering the growth and development of future generations of Indigenous designers and creatives. "We're very excited to grow our youth mentorship and internship program along with our Indigenous entrepreneurship support program," Mitton shares. "Creating peer-to-peer learning opportunities for up-and-coming designers and makers to build their economic sovereignty by growing their businesses."

Honoring Diverse Narratives and Perspectives

The four-night event at VIFW is structured around distinct themes, each offering a unique lens through which to celebrate and explore Indigenous fashion and culture. From the Red Dress Event, honoring missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit and LGBTQ individuals, to the "Spirit of the West Coast" evening showcasing signature West Coast design and nature, the event embraces the rich diversity of Indigenous narratives and perspectives.

Cultivating Cross-Cultural Understanding

At the heart of VIFW's mission is a deep commitment to promoting cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. The event's Wisdom Circle, a group of Indigenous artisans and knowledge keepers, plays a crucial role in guiding the event's direction and ensuring that it aligns with Indigenous values and principles. This collaborative approach helps to foster a greater appreciation for the nuances and complexities of Indigenous fashion and design.

Celebrating the Power of Indigenous Creativity and Resilience

Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week stands as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and innovation of Indigenous designers and artisans. From the visionary leadership of Joleen Mitton to the passionate dedication of the entire VIFW team, the event serves as a platform to uplift and celebrate the rich cultural heritage and artistic expression of Indigenous peoples. As the event continues to grow and evolve, it promises to be a beacon of inspiration and a catalyst for greater representation and understanding within the fashion industry and beyond.