VINITA, Okla. – More than 300 people gathered today at the Cherokee Nation Anna Mitchell Cultural & Welcome Center in Vinita for the tribe’s first-ever Ribbon Skirt Fashion Show.
The event was open to the public and featured OsiyoTV’s Jennifer Loren as the afternoon’s host.
Guests enjoyed a short presentation on the evolution of the ribbon skirt followed by a runway presentation showcasing the work of seven Cherokee textile artists including Cindy Evans, Jennifer Thiessen, Shadow Hardbarger, Eva Cantrell, Julie Perkins, Kenny Glass and Cherokee National Treasure Tonia Hogner-Weavel.
“The ribbon skirt is a celebrated part of Cherokee culture, and while very visible, especially in Oklahoma, not many know its full history,” said Talisha Lewallen, manager of cultural programs and events. “This event is a way to share more about its evolution to everyday fashion and shines a spotlight on our incredibly talented artists who continue to leave their mark on Native textiles and fashion.”
An additional 300 viewers enjoyed the fashion show via livestream, with online voting for the Fan Favorite available through July 7. Please visit facebook.com/VisitCherokeeNation to watch the recorded livestream and to vote for your favorite ribbon skirt. Voting ends July 7.
Named in honor of the late Cherokee National Treasure Anna Belle Sixkiller Mitchell, the center shares the history of both Cherokee Nation and the Vinita community while honoring Mitchell’s efforts to revitalize Cherokee pottery. It features an exhibit gallery, a grab-and-go café with Native-inspired cuisine, a gift shop, and flexible space for cultural classes and events. It is open to the public seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 953 E. Illinois Ave.