FASHION DAZE at Yaamava

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel in Highland, California, east of Los Angeles, hosted two days of collection presentations by Native American designers April 20 and 21.

Produced by fashion publicist, bestselling author and TV personality Kelly Cutrone, the event featured a runway show by Jamie Okuma, the first Native American designer to be admitted to the Council of Fashion Designers of America, alongside shows from Indigenous creators Jennifer Younger, Orlando Dugi and Section35, Freak City L.A., and others also showcased collections, with models walking around the resort pool and guests seated on either side.

Daze worth of days. Whether it was the: engraved metals, exotic neon material, dazzling sequin, studded threads, dexterous seed bead designed gowns, winks from monolights, the elegant struts, or maybe it was just the sun? The elements couldn’t have blessed us any better with beautiful weather on the lands of the San Manuel people. Sun-kissed metals and sequins dancing in the light. The wind carrying the feathery material.

She blessed us with her dancing and brought a community of creative minds together.

“This experience has shown me that working hard, focusing more on my own goals and working with like minded people will bring success! Like minded people being those who want to help each other grow and prosper.” -Jennifer Younger

That was FASHION DAZE at Yaamava.

Jennifer Younger, one of five Indigenous designers here this past week; brought her wearable art from the Northwestern coast of Sitka, Alaska down to the Southern Coast.

Jennifer’s ability to intricately move metals with metal and naturally patina her copper pieces is immaculate. Not only did she grace us with her artistry; Jennifer’s statement pieces gave the models more empowerment. The silver and copper were armor-like, giving us the real Wonder Woman. One statement piece being a Tináa, a copper shield used by the Tlingit People. Another look, ‘Armor for the soul’ had me in a daze! This was EVERYTHING.

She was the moment, but what’s a moment to an entire life of creativity.

Elegant pieces my friend!

As the models graciously floated down the runway. I observed the wool fiber sweaters only to be taken back home; carding, spinning, and dyeing wool. The Indigo Blue diamonds resembling flint armor from the Story of The Warrior Twins. Then down came rays of sunbeam when Orlando Dugi’s Gold mirrored vinyl mini dress strutted down the runway. A dress that’s capable of holding it’s form and standing alone. Each stitch and every bead on Orlando’s designs was pristine and shining. ‘Nizhoni,’ beautiful.

Game on! Sko! As jerseys came to life on the runway. A recent collaboration between Section 35 and Debra Sparrow brought vibrant colourways and patterns to the court. N7 brought the laces, and Justin Louis brought the streetwear. Justin, founder of Section 35, from the Samson Cree Nation knows both game and fashion. An inspiration for young Indigenous athletes and creatives across the lands. Aho! It was an honor meeting you brother!

The show must go on!

I saw fire.

I saw Dusk.

As ribbons swayed in the breeze, above a graffiti tagged suit.

“Rebellious Ribbons of Resilience.”

 -Freak City LA

 The look wouldn’t be complete without a beaded Anarchy drip bolo tie of course! Created by cofounder Vally.

Comanche x LA graffiti culture = *insert heart emoji here*

Literal art. Throughout Freak City’s runway I was gagged by the attitude and blinded by the looks. My neck snapped watching the models whip their hair! Freak City LA bby! The exotic neon coloured gowns, graffiti tagged streetwear, pink REAL & FAKE tracksuit gave fantasy, but was and is a reality. Love that.

Electrifying drumming filled the warm spring air. The audience in awe as the models showcased new designs from Jamie Okuma. The Council of Fashion Designers of America’s newest member this year. Jamie’s dexterous seed bead designed gowns and new patterns were carried in the wind beautifully. Jamie was also apart of the fashion daze panel discussion. Along with Indigenous actor, Amber Midthunder and two San Manuel tribal members. Congratulations Jamie Okuma!

A thank you to hairstylist, Marc Mena. Thank you to the make up artists from Smashbox Cosmetics.

With that being said, what an honor it was to work alongside: both Indigenous and non Indigenous designers, production team, groovy stylists, makeup artists, hairstylists, and beautiful models. Ahé’hée! Thank you! Also seeing Indigenous faces, showing support for the people, our people. A sense of home was at Yaamava. The laughter and connection, such beautiful medicine. Each and every one of you made this an experience for me.

“We’re everywhere, and we’re not going anywhere.” Aóó! Yes!

With these 12 works scattered throughout.

Written by David Thomas Jr