Navajo designs in textiles are still produced by the Navajo people of the Four Corners area of the United States. These textiles have always been highly regarded for their beauty and typically have strong geometric patterns. Originally they were used as cloaks, dresses, saddle blankets and other utilitarian ways.

In the 19th century, weavers began to make rugs for tourism and for export overseas. Now here in the 21st century, we have a resurgence of all things Native American that has the patterning of these famous designs! From printed dresses to beaded leathers, these tribal influenced fashions have become the “must have” for style seekers all over the globe. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this trend, and I’m very sure it won’t be the last.

Take a gander at some of fashion looks I’ve found and see if it might be something you might want to wear to your next important “pow-wow”!

Coats
You can’t do any better than a Navajo-inspired blanket coat. They are unisex and will be great this fall when layered over sweaters and jeans. When you find one, make sure to try it on with what else you’ll wear with it, and be realistic with the fit. You don’t literally want to look as though you have a blanket on! They’re a bright and colorful way to warm up the cooler fall climate.

Dresses
There are a plethora of prints that echo the Navajo aesthetic available for purchase. Look for bright colors with fits that flatter, and certainly don’t shy away from details like zippers or fringe to take it to the next level. You’ll stand out in a good way when wearing one of these unforgettable patterns.

Separates
These might be considered items that either support the looks we’ve talked about or are enhanced with traditional Navajo design in their embellishment. I get a kick out of all the fringed suede that is being used to trim skirts and slacks as well as the intricately beaded embroidery done as an accent on tops and bottoms alike. This look is highly accessible for anyone when you do it in small doses. Too much of any good thing, like fringe, can end up looking like a Halloween costume!

Accessories
The headband is an easy way to co-opt this look for yourself and is as simple as finding a beaded soft fabric belt at the Goodwill Retail Store & Donation Center near you, and tying it on!! Feather looks are also in this category with hair clips and the like. The same could go for finding a great hand-woven bag or tote that would let you get the same Native American vibe with whatever you wear.

Suede boots of all kinds, including those with fringe or studs, could suit almost anyone and are practical too this fall. We’ve seen beaded moccasins galore and even spied some Nike sneakers that were customized with the classic designs.

Jewelry
Native American totems and beads have an antique quality and always work well with a plain top or dress. But, you may ask, what about all the western style turquoise and silver? These are the types of jewelry including belts that are the perfect “go together” with this historic look. Things that are rugged or handmade, like woven bracelets or bright beaded earrings, bring any outfit to life in a fashion forward way.

Whether you like the bold blanket or want to quietly dangle some Navajo-like earrings, it’s all a style possibility for a lot less money when you shop at the Goodwill near you. Here’s to all of our fall fashion tribes and the Native American look!

askbjorn@goodwillsew.com

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