b'FASHION SPOTLIGHTTaking By Matthew Bradford the Lead in the Retail IndustryI n d i g e n o u s w o m e n m a k e a n a m e f o r t h e m s e l v e s o n t h e c o u n t r y s f a s h i o n a n d b e a u t y s c e n eC anadas Indigenous community is home to aLESLEY HAMPTON putting Indigenous styles in host of rich, cultural traditionsmany thatFASHION DESIGNER involve beautiful attire, intricate jewelry, and unique wellness traditions. Today, a number ofFrom dressing celebrities to Indigenous women are tapping into this robustthe spotlight, Lesley Hampton has made a name for herself heritage with businesses that are putting Indigenous clothes,in Canadas fashion community and beyond. Her fashion accessories and beauty services on Canadas fashion radar.creations have been featured in Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and Allure magazines, among others. Stitch by stitch, Hampton Not only is the success of these fashion-forward Indigenoushas built her Certified Aboriginal Business with a passion for entrepreneurs creating opportunities for others within theirshowcasing both modern and traditional Indigenous designs communities, it is expanding and changing the publicsthrough collections that have featured on runways throughout perception of Indigenous businessesbusinesses historicallythe country. rooted in the natural resources sector. Indigenous women entrepreneurs are successfully switching some of the focusIm always exploring my Indigeneity through my work in some from mining and heavy machinery to lipstick and beadwork.form or another, reflects Hampton. That includes the time-honoured regalia and beadwork, which are still very much rele-Here we take a look at some of these women who arevant, but also contemporary Indigenous fashions.forging ahead in the countrys fashion scene and breaking new ground for Indigenous businessall while navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. 20A CCAB PUBLICATION2020'