Manitoba Indigenous Model and Fashion Designer to Showcase at Paris Fashion Week

 

 

Although Bruyere didn’t claim the inaugural Miss Indigenous Canada title, she emerged with an unforgettable experience as the first-ever delegate from Sagkeeng First Nation.

 

“Being one of the 26 contestants chosen out of 700 applicants was a historic moment for all of us contributing to the first Miss Indigenous Canada,” Bruyere told CityNews. “Sharing our gifts, stories, and inspiration was incredibly powerful.”

 

Bruyere didn’t leave empty-handed, winning the award for public speaking. She credited her success to a supportive team, including Indigenous fashion designer Alyssia Sutherland, who crafted the looks Bruyere showcased at the pageant held at Six Nations of the Grand River in Ontario on July 27.

 

Bruyere and Sutherland, both from Peguis First Nation, have been friends since their teenage years.

 

“Aly’s talent is incredible, and I’m proud to showcase her work,” Bruyere said.

 

 

Sutherland, whose designs have graced New York Fashion Week and The Cannes Film Festival, expressed the deep significance of her craft. “Designing is everything to me,” she said. “Traditional clothing feels very powerful. I’m reclaiming my identity one skirt at a time.”

 

Sutherland emphasized the importance of encouraging Indigenous women, men, and Two-Spirit people to embrace traditional attire whenever possible.

 

The duo is now preparing for their next big adventure: Bruyere will headline Sutherland’s first show at Paris Fashion Week.

 

“Hitting a global stage like Paris Fashion Week and bringing Indigenous representation there is overwhelming,” Sutherland said.

 

Bruyere, with tears in her eyes, added, “Going to Paris Fashion Week is a triumph I never imagined. I feel so lucky to have Alyssia by my side on this journey.”

 

 

Both Bruyere and Sutherland, single mothers who have faced major life changes together, emphasize the importance of strong, supportive relationships between women.

 

“The more you love and nurture yourself, the more that inner beauty shines and flourishes,” Bruyere said.

 

Paris Fashion Week kicks off on September 23.