- Jontay Kahm’s avant-garde collection features rooster feathers and beaded separates.
- Santa Fe hosts multiple Indigenous fashion events, including the 4Kinship and Sovereign showcases.
- Designers like Naiomi Glasses and Josh Tafoya highlight cross-border fashion influences.
The SWAIA Native Fashion Show in Santa Fe was a vibrant display of Indigenous creativity, with rising designer Jontay Kahm showcasing his eclectic collection.
The event was part of a broader celebration of Indigenous fashion, coinciding with the 102nd annual Indian Market.
Heritage Meets High Fashion: Highlights from the SWAIA Native Fashion Show
At the SWAIA Native Fashion Show, Jontay Kahm made headlines with his innovative use of feathers and beads, reflecting a fusion of traditional and contemporary styles. His aspiration to lead at Alexander McQueen underscores the growing recognition of Indigenous designers on the global stage.
The fashion show was a centerpiece of Santa Fe’s celebration of Indigenous culture, including multiple events over the weekend. Naiomi Glasses presented her collection in collaboration with Ralph Lauren, while the 4Kinship Fashion Show featured designers from across the Americas.
Other highlights included the Sovereign art showcase, where Son of Picasso’s streetwear and printmaking techniques explored Native pride and punk-rock influences. This diversity in style and technique highlighted the dynamic range of Indigenous fashion.
These events underscore the increasing prominence of Indigenous designers in the fashion world, bringing fresh perspectives and cultural richness to the industry. The vibrant fusion of traditional elements with modern fashion continues to captivate audiences and industry professionals alike.
The SWAIA Native Fashion Show and related events exemplify the growing influence of Indigenous designers in the global fashion landscape, blending cultural heritage with innovative design.
“I want to be creative director of Alexander McQueen,” said Jontay Kahm, reflecting his ambitious vision and the rising prominence of Indigenous designers.
