Excitement is brewing as Urban Native Era, the renowned Indigenous-owned brand, prepares to make its debut in the fashion show spotlight at the California Academy of Sciences’ NightLife series, Intersections, in San Francisco next month.
The NightLife series offers a unique blend of cultural exploration and entertainment, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the natural history museum after hours, sip cocktails, and delve into the intersection of dance, fashion, and music.
Scheduled for Thursday, April 4th, this special fashion edition of NightLife Intersections promises a captivating experience, featuring a panel discussion and a live fashion show showcasing the works of local artists.
Among the esteemed panelists is Joey Montoya, the visionary behind Urban Native Era, dedicated to amplifying Indigenous representation in the fashion realm. Montoya, a member of the Lipan Apache tribe, shares insights into the brand’s inception, its mission to increase Indigenous visibility, and its evolution into a fashion powerhouse.
In an exclusive interview with Native News Online, Montoya sheds light on Urban Native Era’s journey, from its grassroots origins inspired by the Idle No More movement to its current focus on fashion and design.
Montoya elaborates on the brand’s approach to incorporating Indigenous culture into its designs, striking a balance between impactful storytelling and accessibility. Through subtle yet significant pieces like the ‘You Are On Native Land’ statement piece and the Hummingbird logo, Urban Native Era appeals to a broad audience while staying true to its roots.
Reflecting on the role of fashion as a platform for cultural expression and empowerment, particularly for Indigenous communities, Montoya emphasizes its historical significance and its evolving presence in contemporary Indigenous gatherings and events.
As Urban Native Era gears up for its inaugural fashion show, Montoya hopes audiences will embrace the experience, immerse themselves in the brand’s original soundtrack and innovative designs, and ignite introspection on the essence of fashion.