By Tami Watt, Editor
Pictured above L to R: Outfit designed by Darice Sampson, modeled by Halsey Jimerson; Model Skylar Evans, dress by Karlene Familo, quillwork by Jamie Jacobs; First Lady Nicole Seneca in shoes designed by Jon Anne Capasso.
The third annual Seneca Indigenous Fashion Show – Where Tradition Meets Trend was a cultural display of creativity, bold designs, and traditional inspirations highlighting Indigenous excellence at its finest. Modern styles, rich fabrics, beadwork and quillwork graced the runway of the Seneca Niagara Casino on November 1st, 2025. Indigenous talent produced every aspect of the event from the hosts, organizers, runway, music, hair, make up and beyond.
The Seneca Resort and Casino hosted a platform for Indigenous designers and models to showcase their talents and artistry, celebrate their heritage, and inspire future generations. Organizers aim to build partnerships and opportunities that uplift Indigenous communities while preserving and honoring cultural traditions.
The event brought together eleven Indigenous clothing designers and three accessory designers from across Turtle Island along with featured artists and special guest models. Karlene Familo (Seneca), Pidabinikwe (Christial Pratt, Algonquin Anishnabe), Kreations by Kehala (Kehala Smith, Tuscarora), Carly Koban (Seneca), Tisha Thompson X K. Francisbrand (Tisha Thompson & Karen Francis, Mohawk), The Snipes’ Nest (Darice Sampson, Seneca), Bruno Henry (Cayuga), Homer Couture (Mary Homer, Oneida), Cami Jones (Seneca), Shineymoon Creations (Jennifer Benally, Oneida), Queena Ribbon Designs (Tina Bradley, Mohawk) were the featured clothing designers this year.
Carly Koban shared her first year experience as a designer. “My cousin, Devonne Gardner, reached out to me for the first show and she said, “You need to apply as a model or a designer.” I didn’t think I had it in me to take on the designer role, so I took a chance and applied as a model and fell in love with the atmosphere. It was being there with everyone that pushed me to try and I’m proud of myself for following through.”
Each fashion show is an opportunity to share art, culture, and talent. Each designer has their own story, community, and heritage. “It is one of the greatest feelings to represent the Seneca Nation and to look into the audience and see our Nation cheer you on. That moment of pure love, pride and being embraced is priceless,” shared designer Darice Sampson.
The Urban Gaiyowah (Jon Anne Capasso, Seneca), Beads by Arielle (Arielle Leighton, Tuscarora), and Mary Jacobs Designs (Mary Jacobs, Seneca) accessorized model jewelry, bags and shoes. Designers paired up with each to complete their looks.
Jon Anne Capasso found her niche in the fashion world with beaded her shoes and bags and is excited for next years show. She wants to continue networking and creating traditional art with a contemporary twist.
Cree and Salish artist Tia Wood gave a soulful performance during intermission. From the Saddle Lake Cree Nation, Wood is now signed to Sony Music. Her performances continue to echo the songs of her people and honor her heritage. Special guest models Charlie Rae Hill (Seneca) and Skylar Evans (Oglala Lakota) fresh off the runways of NYC sashayed in various designs throughout the night. Local Seneca artists 438 Gang provided swift beats on the dance floor after the show.
Seneca models featured in the show; Alyana Abrams, Destiny Alvardo-Sampson, Allise Barreto, Inez Buffalo, Dakota Familo, Layla Gamble, Hailey Haynes, Eli Himelin, Emerald Jock, Alex Kennedy, Michaelynn Leccerdone, Isabella Lemke, Ari Logan, Molly Nephew, Rylee Nephew, Sarah Nephew, Crystal Noise, Carlie Olson, Melanie Ross, Nicole Seneca, Stevieana Seneca, Doby Steeprock, Obrigh Tallchief, Heather Ward, and Raeanne White.
“Every time I step on that runway, I’m carrying my culture, my community, and the generations of strength and creativity that came before me. The show was truly powerful; Indigenous artistry continues to shine and inspire. Each designer’s work told a story — one of resilience, identity, and pride — and being a part of that storytelling was deeply meaningful.
Representing Indigenous designs on a large platform is more than just fashion; it’s visibility and empowerment. It’s showing the world that Indigenous people are still here, thriving, and evolving while staying rooted in who we are,” shared model and owner of Indigenous Glamour LLC, Inez Snow – Buffalo.
Not only are the designs custom to Indigenous culture but inclusive of the sizes and shapes of Indigenous models. Runway designs featured models from straight size, to mid size and plus size. “I appreciate positive and realistic body image representation; fashion is for everyone,” shared First Lady Nicole Seneca. In her first runway experience, she never imagined walking for designers at her height of 5’2″, she was chosen by three designers to represent their fashions.
The anticipation for next year’s November 21, 2026 show is already building. Designers are excited to create new collections, and collaborate with new connections. Artists value this shared experience on a large platform. “I want to give other artists a chance to showcase their work, moving beyond just being seen behind a glass case. By doing this, I hope their pieces can be appreciated in a new way, even worn and celebrated,” shared Karlene Familo. Karlene collaborated with quillworker Jamie Jacobs on a show stopping outfit that included a quilled head piece, cuffs, hairpiece and gown, closing out the event.
The commitment, dedication, and focus to design, sew, and bead is a passion all artists share and understand. “Take care of yourself, say “no” to drugs. Stay fit and eat healthy. Do well in school. Set goals and dreams to focus on the future,” shared Darice Sampson. “If you ever have an opportunity to experience or learn something new, say yes whenever possible, shared First Lady Nicole Seneca. “Stay connected to your roots,” shared Carly Koban.
Dreams come true for rez kids too.
