Designed to showcase raw beauty and Indigenous cultural heritage,10,000 years of traditional moosehide moccasin-making is reimagined through a contemporary collaboration between Bastien Industries and Sky-Eagle Collection.
The project launches “TIHCHION’,” which translates to STARS in Wendat language, a line of traditional ballerina-style moccasins crafted of 100% traditional raw moosehide infused with elements of modern Indigenous style in the evolving world of fashion. The intention was to lean into the ballerina moccasin, allowing the simplicity of materials and elegance of design to shine.
This collaboration between Jason Picard-Binet of the Huron-Wendat Nation, CEO of Bastien Industries, and Dante Biss-Grayson of the Osage Nation, founder and fashion designer of Sky-Eagle Collection, emphasizes the cultural importance and historical significance of moccasins to both the Huron-Wendat and Osage Nations, reflecting their rich traditions and heritage.
The vision was to create a moccasin inspired by the two nations. Biss-Grayson desired a minimalistic ballerina-type moccasin, as this is a very widespread style among First Nations. Picard-Binet sought 100% moosehide footwear with respect to his traditions and territory in Wendake (in Quebec).
The design is inspired by the morning star. Just before sunrise, a lone star shines in the east. Many Indigenous nations in America call this marvel the morning star. With this star comes the sun and light on Mother Earth, which heralds the dawn. Because of its great importance in the daily lives of Indigenous people, the morning star is often used in traditional designs and ornaments.
“The Native Fashion Movement is here to stay,” shares Dante Biss-Grayson of Sky-Eagle Collection. “Come be a part of this exciting design renaissance as we honor our heritage and showcase our creativity.“
“It’s a great honor for myself and my company to be associated with such a great role model of resilience and perseverance, in addition to tremendous artistic talent,” Jason Picard-Binet, CEO of Bastien.
Shifting consumer behavior, especially among younger consumers, shows a growing trend to reject fast fashion and favor more products made of more sustainable materials, focusing on the hallmarks of quality and durability. The fashion industry is taking notice and is now spotlighting contemporary Indigenous designers like Sky-Eagle Collection. The designer is making an impact at prestigious events, such as runaway shows at the Cannes Film Festival, New York Fashion Week, and the Oscars.
The partnership transcends the colonial boundaries of Canada and the US, fostering unity among Indigenous peoples across North America through this shared cultural project. The collaboration aims to spark curiosity, raise awareness, and ignite action among non-Indigenous people about the histories, traditions, and artistic expressions of the Huron-Wendat and Osage Nations.
“TIHCHION’,” traditional ballerina-style moccasins, are available in very limited quantities. To purchase, visit https://bastienindustries.ca/en
About Dante Biss-Grayson, Sky-Eagle Collection
Dante Biss-Grayson, an Osage artist, veteran, and fashion designer, co-founded the Sky-Eagle Collection with his wife, Yanti, celebrating Native American culture. He combines classical techniques with contemporary vision, creating art across mediums. His work, with designs featured globally on red carpets such as the Oscars and the Cannes Film Festival, addresses Native issues and empowers a new generation of warriors.
About Bastien Industries
Founded by Roland Bastien in 1972 in the Wendake First Nation community, Bastien Industries has thrived on heritage, making moccasins rooted in the long traditions of the Wendat people. In 1996, Ginette Bastien led the company to international recognition while preserving traditional methods. In 2022, Jason Picard-Binet injected modernity, revamping the brand to honor heritage, Indigenous traditions, and Wendat craftsmanship. Today, Bastien stands as the only 100% Indigenous moccasin factory owned and operated in North America.
About Jason Picard-Binet
Jason Picard-Binet, a marketing expert, has been successful in a variety of positions related to Indigenous tourism, from marketing to project management. With organizations such as the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) and Indigenous Tourism Quebec (ITQ), he focused on sustainable practices and international development. Today, as CEO of Bastien Industries, he advocates for genuine Indigenous footwear from Canada, blending tradition with global fashion trends.
