Mohawk (Akwesasne) fashion designer Stacey Mitchell showcased her newest designs with Flying Solo during New York Fashion Week (NYFW) in February 2026. As a designer focusing on Native fashion, she participated in a platform that helps emerging designers present their work in Manhattan.
Last week, Flying Solo Inc. presented its Fall/Winter 2026 runway show during New York Fashion Week (February 2026), showcasing independent, emerging designers to a global audience. The platform, which features curated, high-profile shows covered by major publications, is currently accepting applications for the September 2026 season.
Mitchell is known for blending traditional, nature-inspired elements—like wampum belt patterns—with contemporary, everyday, and formal wear. Based in Ontario, she creates unique pieces, including beadwork, to showcase her pride and talent. Her work has been featured on runways in New York, Toronto, and France, and she offers knit sweaters, dresses, and kimonos on her website. Mitchell grew up in the Mohawk Territory of Akwesasne, learning traditional beadwork, sewing, and quilting from a young age. Her design focus is unique: creating modern, wearable clothing that incorporates cultural symbols, aiming to make traditional elements accessible for daily wear. Her key pieces make her known for her “wampum dress” and “Cowgirl Couture” pieces, which often feature deerskin, rabbit fur, and glass seed beads. She is also an accredited travel agent.
Flying Solo, the largest platform for independent designers in the U.S., returned to New York Fashion Week in February 2026. Flying Solo Inc. highlights emerging designers through a collaborative, cost-sharing model that reduces production expenses for independent brands. The show features a range of emerging brands, including international participants.
Check out some of our favorite looks from the showcase here:
