4Kinship: Sustainable Diné Fashion

As a desert-dweller, I’ve got a soft spot for Southwestern-inspired fashion. However, when it comes to aesthetics, “southwestern” is really a whitewashed term that papers over a history of appropriation amid violent oppression; the patterns, symbols, palettes, and textiles comprising “southwestern” aesthetics are indigenous in origin and are rightfully the property and legacy of Native peoples. To wear these designs ethically and respectfully, I buy them directly from Indigenous-owned brands, with the intention of supporting the community rather than appropriating it.

4Kinship (great video here) is an incredible Diné (Navajo)-owned sustainable slow fashion boutique in Santa Fe (and online!). The constantly changing collection features art, clothing and jewelry designed and crafted by indigenous artists; beautifully upcycled styles; and carefully curated vintage pieces that serve reclaim and recenter Native experiences.

Founder and creative visionary Amy Denet Deal firmly believes that fashion can be a force for change. After 37 years in the corporate fashion industry (Reebok, Puma), Deal uncovered her Diné heritage, relocated from LA to New Mexico, and started a new brand rooted in the principles of reciprocity, community empowerment, resilience, and honoring indigenous creativity, heritage and storytelling.