For Indigenous people across Turtle Island, the ribbon skirt symbolizes heritage and identity.
Ribbon skirts are a proud representation of First Nations traditions and hold personal significance to the wearer. Composed of various ribbons sewn onto a skirt, each one is a form of self-expression and representation of cultural pride.
To celebrate Canada's first official National Ribbon Skirt Day, here are some top Indigenous creators you should follow:
4 Generations Creations
Artist and owner of 4 Generations Creations, Ashley Michel, is Secwépemc from Tk'emlups Indian Band near Kamloops, B.C.
She is a self-taught seamstress and designer who "prides herself in creating Indigenous designs that unapologetically take up space in this colonized world."
Plus, she adds pockets to every skirt.
You can follow 4 Generations Creations on TikTok or visit their website for more information.
Native Swann Arts & Crafts
Tashina Taliman is the owner and creator of Native Swann Arts & Crafts.
Taliman is Diné and operates her small, family-owned businesses from the Navajo Nation.
She creates traditional cotton and satin ribbon skirts to " bring love, culture & traditions to everyday life."
Check out Taliman's videos on YouTube or visit her website to find out more.
Emma Morrison
In 2022, Emma Morrison was crowned Miss World Canada.
Morrison began sewing her first ribbon skirt last year and says sewing has inspired her to reconnect to her culture as a Mushkegowuk Cree Woman.
Her passion for sewing and drive for activism within her community led her to establish the Beauty With a Purpose Project, "Reconnecting Through Ribbon Skirts."
Morrison shares her journey and ribbon skirt creations with followers on TikTok and Facebook.
Aboriginal Design Wear
Aboriginal Design Wear was founded by two Cree elders, Sandra and Shirley, in 2017.
Sandra and Shirley are Peepeekisis First Nation members, and their business is based in Red Deer, Alta.
They hand-make each skirt to increase access to First Nation Regalia and drive "the revitalization of our culture."
To find out more about Aboriginal Design Wear, follow their shop on Etsy or visit their website.
