I love Native American culture. And I love expressing this through the clothing and accessories I wear. As I’ve said before, I have a great pair of salmon colored moccasins that I wear almost every day, and I never leave the house without a Native American stone hanging around my neck. Native American inspired fashion has been making a huge statement on campus this semester. But there is a right way and a wrong way to bring this fantastic trend to your wardrobe. When putting together your Native American inspired outfits remember that minimalism is key! Choose one Native American inspired piece and pair it with your favorite neutrals. Nothing is worse than seeing someone on campus with a southwest patterned dress, moccasins, feather jewelry, and feather hair extensions. Instead, try pairing these great pieces with staples you already own.
In my opinion, everyone needs a pair of moccasins. Whenever I think of moccasins, I think of Minnetonka. These Minnetonka Kilty Suede Moccasins ($44.50) are available at American Eagle Outfitters. They come in black, grey, brown, and dark brown. Whatever shade you choose, a simple moccasin can be worn with almost any outfit.
This Minnetonka Natasha Thong sandal is a perfect alternative to a moccasin. These are available on Zappos.com for $70.99. I love the beaded fringe detail, and these can be dressed up a little bit more than a moccasin. Pair them with a cute white dress and a hint of Native American jewelry for a trend-worthy look.
I haven’t actually ever seen someone wearing knee-high moccasins in person, but I love them. I’ve had my eye on a pair of them for a while. This Minnetonka Front Lace Hardsole Knee-Hi Boot is also available on Zappos.com for $89.00. Please, please, please pair with something simple!! You want all the attention on your great boots, and not on over-accessorized ridiculousness.
As far as tops go, don’t ever attempt to wear a deerskin shirt. It’s just not appropriate. Instead find prints and patterns that are inspired by the Native American culture. This Feathered Girl Top from Forever 21 ($15.90) is perfect with your favorite denim and leather sandals. And please, do not wear with feather jewelry!!!
If prints don’t interest you, go with a bold pattern like this one from Urban Outfitters. The BDG Printed Boyfriend Shirt ($39.00) is perfect for day or night. The turquoise mixed with the reds and yellows gives this Southwestern inspired shirt fantastic dimension. Wear with leggings and flats during the day, and throw on your heels at night!
I couldn’t decide which of these I liked better so I decided to include both. I love that they both essentially look like blankets that you just let drape over you. On the left, we have the Ecote Camp Cardigan from Urban Outfitters ($98.00). This one has a longer sleeve, which is perfect for the winter months. On the right, we have the AE Open Patterned Cardigan from American Eagle ($59.50). This one is a little bit more oversized than the alternative, and has a ¾ sleeve. Pair both with your favorite skinnies and flats, and you’ll be prepared for a chilly day on campus.
Out of all the websites I searched through, Urban Outfitters had the best selection of Native American inspired jewelry that was affordable but still trend-worthy. From left to right we have the Feather and Crystal Pendant Necklace ($24.00), Seed Bead Duster Earring ($24.00), a Multi-Color Rope Bracelet ($8.00), and the Delicate Arrow Ring ($12.00). With Native American inspired jewelry, you can go as bold or as subtle as you want. But remember, the bolder the jewelry, the more modest your clothes have to be, and vice-versa.
So remember, when adding these great Native American pieces to your wardrobe, don’t forget that minimalism is key to pulling off this popular trend. Also, don’t forget to search for Native American inspired pieces at your local thrift store, or even an authentic Native American store. I found my Native American stone at an authentic store I found about half an hour away from campus, and it will forever be around my neck. So go and search for those great pieces that are sure to add a tribal feel to your wardrobe!