The Fire Within Sycuan Fashion Show celebrates Native Americans

The 2024 Sycuan Fashion Show was held at the Sycuan Casino and Resort on Sept. 5. This event celebrates Native American designers, models, and artists, showcasing the talents of Indigenous people across Turtle Island. The designers skillfully blended traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion. Now in its third year, the show took place in the Heritage Ballroom with Ruben Littlehead returning as the enthusiastic emcee. He began the event with an opening prayer accompanied by bird singers and dancers.

This year’s theme, “The Fire Within,” comes from the Kumeyaay word for “hello” (Haawka). This is a term they ask ones they come across, “How is their spirit?” Program director Angelica Labrake said this is a testament to the Indigenous people to never have their spirit dimmed in this fashion industry and to showcase our people who are blazing through in fashion.

The stage backdrop glowed with flames. and the runway was encircled by fire creating a breathtaking scene that wowed the audience. A door in the center of the backdrop made it appear as though the models were walking through flames as they stepped onto the runway, adding to the drama.

This year, they had 11 designers from the U.S. and Canada including the Sycuan Education Department. Em Assiniboine Designs opened the runway with a modern interpretation of women’s fashion. Indig-A-Ribbon Designs showed off matching bags with their designs, while Shining Star by Shay brought high fashion to the runway. Thunderheart Custom Wear delighted the audience with tribal prints and fringe, and Ocean Kiana presented chic casual wear, including miniskirts and corsets.

Ally’s Ribbons followed using geometric designs and ribbons. Ro Tree and Cheyleen Julian were back with unique designs and color coordination while the House of Beauty by Wabanoonkwe began their segment with a ballet-inspired dancer. This chic wear had a native twist. Bitterwater for Redhouse has a sustainable focus on using sequins and ribbons in their collection. Benjamin Leedom was back again this year with the fabulous 3 Feathers Star Quilts. The finale finished with the next generation of youth showing kids wear.

After the show, guests were invited to a vendor area in the Wachena Ballroom, where they could shop and purchase all the incredible designs.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sunday, Sept. 15 – Bridal Bazaar with fashion shows presented by Gretchen Productions at the San Diego Convention Center. Two shows will be presented during the day. For more info: 760-334-5500.

Sunday, Sept. 21 – 20th annual Strut for Sobriety! fashion show and recovery awareness event for new PATH at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina. Tickets at: 619-670-1184.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the San Diego area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher, and blogger at dianacavagnaro.com.