Our Story: Craftsmanship, Honouring Tradition, Sharing Culture.

We started Aboriginal Design Wear in 2017 with a shared vision: to make authentic First Nation regalia accessible to everyone and to preserve the traditions of our Cree culture. As Peepeekisis First Nation elders, we—Sandra and Shirley—were inspired by our deep-rooted connection to our heritage and the stories passed down through generations.

Our mother was a survivor of the residential school system, where she faced the harsh reality of being stripped of her culture, language, and identity. Watching her strength and resilience shaped our desire to reclaim what had been lost and to celebrate the beauty of our Cree traditions. For us, Aboriginal Design Wear is more than just a business—it is our way of honouring our ancestors and keeping our culture alive.

We believe that regalia is not only meant for First Nation ceremonies but can also be a way for people from all walks of life to connect with Indigenous craftsmanship and culture. Every piece we create is handmade with love, reflecting the stories, symbols, and spirituality of our people. By sharing these with the world, we hope to foster greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous traditions.

Our goal is simple: to create regalia that anyone can wear with pride. Whether for powwows, ceremonies, or personal celebration, our work is about ensuring that our cultural heritage continues to thrive. We want to make it possible for everyone to access and experience the power of First Nation regalia, bringing a piece of our culture into their lives.

We’re proud to share our traditions with the world, one handmade piece at a time, and even prouder that this work is now a family effort, passed down to the next generation.

— Sandra & Shirley