Big Wind: A Narrative of Sustainable Fashion
Micah “Big Wind” Carpenter-Lott was born in Great Falls, Montana to an Aaniiih/Nakota/Ojibwe Father and Northern Arapaho Mother. Big Wind is a two-spirit member of the Northern Arapaho Tribe and is from the Wind River Reservation. Big Wind, alongside local Indigenous activists, organized Wyoming’s first Climate Summit on the Wind River Reservation. Committed to fighting racial, systemic, and environmental injustice, Big Wind emphasizes the importance of including Indigenous voices in Climate Action Plans (CAP).
In the ongoing discussion about fashion and sustainability, the blend of heritage, innovation, and eco-awareness tells a compelling story. From the intricate designs of ribbon shirts to the skilled craftsmanship behind plant-based accessories, these elements represent more than just style; they embody a deep connection to culture and the environment.
The Essence of Ribbon Shirts
Exploring the essence of ribbon shirts, a style resonating with both heritage and innovation, Big Wind reveals a profound admiration for their unique construction. They are a tribute to sustainability through ancient techniques, a homage to the gifts of the ecosystem transformed into wearable art.
Originating from European Trade Shirts, Indigenous Ribbon Shirts became a part of the clothing worn by various tribes. Bright silk ribbons, brought by Europeans, gained popularity for their vibrant colors. As calico fabric became available, Indigenous Peoples incorporated it into their clothing, creating shirts adorned with brooches, ribbons, and applique. These shirts became synonymous with Indigenous identity, particularly during the 1800s.
Legacy and Contemporary Significance of Ribbon Shirts
During the reservation period and the emergence of powwows, Ribbon Shirts were integrated into the regalia for these social events. Today, these shirts continue to be worn by people of all ages, made from a variety of fabrics and decorated in different styles, from simple designs to motifs representing the Four Directions.
The Significance of Plant-Based Accessories
The conversation with Big Wind also highlights the significance of accessories, such as the bolo tie crafted from plant-based materials. This accessory represents a fusion of culture and modern expression, drawing inspiration from nature’s colors and motifs, echoing indigenous traditions and reverence for the natural world.
Origins and Evolution of the Bolo Tie
The bolo tie, a classic western accessory, originated in the 1930s by Indigenous silversmiths in Arizona and New Mexico as a more casual alternative to the formal necktie. It evolved from bandanas tied around the necks of Indigenous men and gained popularity among ranchers and cowboys, eventually becoming internationally recognized.
Universal Significance of Fashion Heritage
Throughout the exchange with Big Wind, there’s a sense of shared stories across cultures, with colors and patterns echoing connections to nature, history, and identity.
Fashion as Identity and Commitment
The conversation with Big Wind underscores that sustainable fashion is not just about looks; it’s a reflection of identity, heritage, and a conscientious commitment to the environment. These narratives, blending tradition and innovation, showcase the potential to redefine fashion’s impact—one leaf, one one ribbon, and one meaningful conversation at a time.
Photo (c) Pamela EA
