Tradition MEETS TODAY

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 18/02/2012 (5143 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

When we think of fashion, our thoughts often turn to runway designers and urban trendsetters, but what we tend to forget is that the elements of style can be traced back far beyond the houses of Gucci, Prada and Chanel.

First Nations have incorporated style into their garments for hundreds of years, whether it is delicate porcupine quilling, intricate beading or skilful leatherwork.

Today, the influence of First Nations and Métis traditional style extends into a la mode fashion. Take, for example, the Julie Peterson spats worn by Britney Spears during her Winnipeg concert or the beautiful avian-inspired earrings and necklaces from local designer Ruby Feathers — both modern versions of their traditional counterparts.

And with Louis Riel Day coming up this Monday, it really seemed only fitting to me to feature some of the fabulous First Nation and Métis designers who are creating modern-day versions of the old-world, traditional styles.

One of the best-known brands is Manitobah Mukluks, an aboriginal-owned Canadian line of mukluks and moccasins that draw inspiration from both the artistry of their ancestors and the world we live in today.

Their Métis signature collection in particular is one that celebrates culture and heritage by incorporating floral beadwork into the design — a signature pattern of the Métis — while the soles of the boots are made from Vibram, a high-performance rubber designed to withstand high-abrasion urban environments.

While these modern-day versions of their traditional counterparts provide a taste of the past, nothing quite beats the real deal — and by that I am referring to work created the elders who are still crafting today.

At Teekca’s Aboriginal Boutique at The Forks, you can find one-of-a-kind moose hide, fur-trimmed moccasins handcrafted by a local 70-year-old Cree woman. Each pair is made by hand and features Cree and Métis beading patterns. You can also find delicate smoked elk-hide moccasins by a crafter from Thompson that feature intricate geometric beading patterns.

In addition to moccasins and mukluks, modern jewelry designed by First Nations crafters also draws upon tradition such as ceremonial feather wear. I absolutely love the simple, natural beauty of the earrings created by local designer/artist Blaine Harris, who uses goose, duck and owl feathers.

Got a suggestion for a future column or a fashion trend worth following? Email Connie Tamoto at connietamotofashion@hotmail.com.