Dorothy Grant's cultural couture

Looking for a one of a kind dress or sportcoat? Vancouver BC based Haida fashion designer Dorothy Grant brings her culture and keen eye for great style to casual and high-fashion apparel for men and women. In featuring ancient traditions, contemporary Haida design, and sustainable materials she creates wearable art that is both social and environmental responsibility. In her own words, the mission of Ms. Grant's work is to "share the richness of the Haida culture, to create a vehicle for transformation, pride and self-awareness, and to employ First Nations people." Most importantly, Ms. Grant's substance and style make here a fantastic role model for all those budding 'Indigenistas' out there. Brava! Reposted from Sustainable Sean

Latina Nina

I was psyched to hear judge Nina Garcia switch into Spanish in the first episode of Project Runway Season 8 on Lifetime. Casanova, one of season 8's competitors, wasn't quite understanding what host Heidi Klum was asking so Nina stepped right in to help out. Spanish is pretty rare in mainstream American television, particularly connected to design, so it really was great to see happen. Kudos for diversity in design! Originally posted on Sustainable Sean.

8th Generaton shoes for walking in two worlds

Louie Gong's Eighth Generation shoes are gaining ground fast. A Native American of mixed heritage (Nooksack, Chinese, French, Scottish), Gong understands the challenges and opportunities that exist today for people of mixed heritage living in a modern world while trying to honor cultural identity. His hand crafted Coast Salish designs on the iconic Vans shoes reflect this understanding and they are becoming as popular as any new fashion on the Paris catwalks. Gong is also an activist for people living in multiple worlds as President of the Mavin Foundation among other innovative projects.