Ocean—the designer behind Ocean Kiana—an up-and-coming Nishinaabe designer and artist from Northwestern Ontario, is quickly making a name for herself in the fashion world with her unique, sustainable approach. Growing up on her home reserves—Biigtigong Nishnaabeg (Pic River First Nation) and Netmizaagamig Nishnaabeg (Pic Mobert First Nation)—Ocean Kiana’s deep connection to her Anishinaabe culture and identity informs her artistic vision and design philosophy. Wolf Clan and with the Anishinaabe name White Butterfly, Ocean is dedicated to using fashion as a platform to share her culture while addressing the pressing need for sustainability in the industry.
Ocean’s designs are the epitome of timeless elegance. From intricately crafted accessories to refined garments, her pieces combine beauty with utility, empowering customers to build enduring wardrobes. In a world dominated by fast fashion, Ocean’s philosophy stands apart. She strives to craft garments that last—pieces that her customers can wear, cherish, and pass down for generations.
At the core of Ocean’s designs is the Ojibway principle of “Wnizhsid”—a word that encapsulates the meaning of “good, fine, useful, and beautiful.” This value guides her mission to create high-quality garments that capture elegance and serve a practical purpose. Ocean believes that clothing should be both aesthetically pleasing and functional, aligning with her vision of helping people curate a wardrobe that reflects their personal style while moving away from wasteful trends.
In addition to timeless style, sustainability is a cornerstone of Ocean’s brand. Her commitment to environmental consciousness shines through in every piece she creates. Whether it’s the selection of materials or the careful attention to craftsmanship, Ocean is dedicated to reducing waste in fashion. She envisions a future where fashion is pivotal in fostering a more mindful and sustainable world. Her designs encourage consumers to think beyond fleeting trends and embrace pieces meant to last.
Ocean’s mission extends far beyond the realm of fashion. Through her work, she advocates for the beauty of Indigenous craftsmanship and cultural expression. Each accessory or garment she creates tells a story, honoring the traditions of her Nishinaabe heritage while pushing boundaries in modern fashion. Her ability to blend traditional values with contemporary designs positions Ocean as a trailblazer in Indigenous fashion.
As Ocean continues to expand her brand, she remains focused on creating pieces that resonate with her values—sustainability, elegance, and the enduring legacy of Indigenous art. Her dedication to the principle of “Wnizhsid” and her commitment to sustainable fashion invites us all to think more deeply about our clothes and their impact on the world.
Ocean is poised to be a leading designer in Indigenous fashion. She crafts garments and accessories that enhance personal style and inspire positive change. With her thoughtful designs and mission-driven approach, Ocean reminds us that fashion can indeed be a force for good.
