Why Shopping Authentic Native Brands Matters (Just in time for the holidays!)
When you shop authentic Native brands, you’re doing more than purchasing beautiful and meaningful items—you’re directly supporting the talented Native artists who create them and the communities they call home. Too often, Indigenous designs and traditions are exploited without proper credit or profit returning to the original artists. By choosing to support Native-owned businesses, you ensure that your dollars uplift these creators, honor their craftsmanship, and contribute to the sustainability of their cultures and communities. Every purchase becomes a vote for equity, authenticity, and the celebration of Indigenous ingenuity. Let’s honor the artists, their stories, and the traditions they share with us.
It’s absolutely okay to wear Native jewelry and goods—as long as you buy from authentic Native artists, take the time to learn about their culture, and share that knowledge with others, because we want you to celebrate and support our work!
Here are a few of my favorite online Native-owned shops:
B. Yellowtail: A Native-owned fashion brand celebrating Indigenous culture through clothing and accessories crafted by Native artisans and makers.
Beyond Buckskin Boutique: An online boutique featuring authentic Native-made fashion and accessories, supporting Indigenous designers and communities.
Birchbark Books (and jewelry): A bookstore and gift shop specializing in Indigenous literature, art, and jewelry, curated to celebrate and support Native creators.
Birch Bark Coffee Company: A social enterprise providing organic, fair-trade coffee while addressing water insecurity in Indigenous communities across Canada.
Eighth Generation: A Native-owned business offering art-inspired lifestyle products, including blankets, apparel, and home goods, rooted in authentic Indigenous designs.
Ginew: A Native-owned heritage brand blending traditional artistry with contemporary design to create high-quality apparel and accessories.
J. Okuma: A luxury brand specializing in high-fashion, hand-beaded accessories and apparel that highlight Native American artistry.
Sequoia Soap: A Native-owned skincare company creating handmade soaps and body products inspired by Indigenous traditions and natural ingredients.
Urban Native Era: A clothing and lifestyle brand raising awareness about Indigenous culture and identity through bold, modern designs.
Tapaahsia Farm: A Myaamia-owned company providing quality soaps, lotions, lip balms and other products with only the cleanest, natural ingredients.
Tocabe Indigenous Marketplace: An online marketplace offering traditional and contemporary Native-sourced foods, showcasing Indigenous agricultural practices.
Supporting authentic Native brands is a powerful way to honor and uplift Indigenous communities. By choosing to purchase from Native-owned businesses, you are not only acquiring unique and meaningful items but also contributing to the preservation and celebration of Indigenous cultures. Your support helps ensure that these talented artists and their traditions continue to thrive. As you consider your holiday shopping, I encourage you to explore the Native-owned shops mentioned above and share their stories with others. Together, we can make a positive impact and celebrate the rich heritage and creativity of Indigenous peoples. Happy shopping!
