Native Nations Fashion Night, the premier Indigenous fashion event of the year, returns for its fifth annual showcase on April 25, 2025. Recognized as Native Nations Fashion Day by Governor Walz, this highly anticipated event will spotlight the innovation and entrepreneurship of Indigenous designers both on and off the runway. Attendees can expect a stunning fashion showcase, a curated marketplace, and an electrifying afterparty—all celebrating the resilience and artistry of Native creators.
New this year, event producers IamAnishinaabe will host a Creative Economy Summit, a day-long gathering of Indigenous artists, designers, and industry leaders engaging in critical conversations about the business of creativity within Native communities. Both events are ticketed and open to the public, with tickets available for purchase via the Native Nations Fashion website.
Fashion Show, Marketplace & Afterparty
📅 WHEN: Friday, April 25, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
📍 WHERE: InterContinental St. Paul Riverfront Hotel, Great River Ballroom – 11 E. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN
🎟 TICKETS: Available via Eventbrite.com
This year’s theme, “Nibi Indow / Mni Waun / I am Water,” reflects the profound connection between Indigenous communities and water—symbolizing life, change, and continuity. Designers from across North America will present collections inspired by sustainability, cultural resilience, and sacred water stories. Some will incorporate upcycled and thrifted materials, while others draw inspiration from traditional Diné clay pottery, Woodland artistry, and the enduring significance of women in water protection.
Event Schedule:
🕠 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: VIP Check-In & Early Entry (starting at 4:45 PM, first-come, first-served)
🛍 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Marketplace Open
🚪 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: General Admission Check-In & Entry
👗 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Fashion Show – “The Drip” (First Half)
⏸ 8:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Intermission
💧 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM: Fashion Show – “Grand Waters” (Final Half)
🎶 9:30 PM – 11:00 PM: Live Music by Corey Medina & Brothers
Featured Designers Honoring Water Through Fashion:
• Bineshi Ikwewag (Amari LaRocque, Angela Azure LaRocque, Judy Azure) – Turtle Mountain, ND, Anishinaabe
• Dr. Sage Davis – Leech Lake, MN, Anishinaabe
• Loren Aragon of ACONAV – Acoma Pueblo, NM, Diné
• Lavender Doris – Leech Lake and Red Lake, MN, Anishinaabe
• Shannon Gustafson – Whitesand Ontario, Canada, Anishinaabe
• Delina White of IamAnishinaabe – Leech Lake, MN, Anishinaabe
Marketplace & Live DJ Set by AO (Austin Owen)
Explore an authentic selection of handcrafted apparel, jewelry, and accessories from Indigenous artisans while enjoying a high-energy DJ set by Twin Cities’ own Native Son, AO. His vibrant beats will infuse the night with a powerful rhythm of movement and celebration.
Afterparty with Corey Medina & Brothers
The night continues with a live performance by Corey Medina & Brothers, delivering a soulful blend of blues, rock, and classic country. A Diné artist originally from the Navajo Nation in Shiprock, NM, Corey Medina brings raw energy and powerful storytelling through his music, making the afterparty an unforgettable experience.
Tickets & Additional Information
Tickets for the Fashion Show & Marketplace are sold separately from the Creative Economy Summit and can be purchased on Eventbrite.com.
