Cultural Significance of Our Regalia

At Aboriginal Design Wear, each piece of regalia carries deep cultural meaning and serves as a living connection to First Nation traditions. The regalia we create is not just clothing—each item is a symbol of identity, ceremony, and celebration. We take great pride in preserving the authenticity and stories behind our designs, and we’re honored to share this cultural heritage with the world.

Jingle Dresses

Sandra, one of our founding artists, handcrafts each jingle dress with care and respect for tradition. The jingle dress is more than just an outfit; it’s a symbol of healing and resilience. Traditionally worn by women and girls during powwow dances, the dress is adorned with rows of metal cones, or "jingles," that produce a soft, rhythmic sound as the dancer moves. This dance originated in Anishinaabe culture as a form of healing, and today, it remains a powerful symbol of strength and spirituality. The sound of the jingles is said to send prayers to the Creator, bringing healing to those who hear it.

Traditional Dresses

Sandra also crafts our traditional dresses, each reflecting personal and cultural identity. These dresses are often worn during ceremonies, including powwows and family gatherings. Each is unique, featuring intricate patterns that hold deep meaning—whether representing a family’s clan, connection to the land, or spiritual beliefs. The craftsmanship behind each traditional dress is passed down through generations, keeping our culture alive.

Fancy Dance Outfits

The vibrant and intricate fancy dance outfits, made by Sandra, are worn during the high-energy Fancy Dance, a powwow dance that is both captivating and competitive. These outfits feature bright colours and fringe designed to enhance the dancer’s movements. Fancy dance represents joy, celebration, and the resilience of Indigenous culture, symbolizing how we adapt and thrive while honoring our roots.

Ribbon Skirts & Ribbon Pants

Ribbon skirts and pants are handcrafted by Sandra, Shirley, and Karen, each adding their unique artistry to these garments. Ribbon skirts and pants are worn to celebrate identity, pride, and strength within First Nation communities. The ribbons sewn onto the fabric symbolize a connection to nature, spirituality, and protection. Whether worn during a powwow or for daily empowerment, these pieces honor both the past and the present, keeping traditions alive through contemporary styles.

Leather Belts

Terrie is the skilled artisan behind our beautifully crafted authentic leather belts. These belts reflect both functionality and artistic expression, with intricate beadwork and hand-tooled designs that signify a connection to the earth and the animals that provided the leather. Wearing these belts is a way of honoring our relationship with nature and showcasing the artistry of our people.

Beaded Earrings

Our beaded earrings are crafted by Karen, who uses traditional beading techniques passed down through generations. Each pair tells a story through colors and patterns, symbolizing different aspects of our cultural heritage, such as the elements, animals, or spiritual beliefs. By wearing these earrings, you carry with you a piece of our culture, filled with pride, history, and love.