Discover Lakota Fashion Secrets: Unveil Your Heritage at This Epic Teen Event!

Spring is sneaking up, and that means the Cheyenne River Youth Project's epic 25th annual Wačhípí kta Iglúwiŋyeyapi is almost here! Kicking off from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 8, the Cokata Wiconi (Center of Life) teen center is going to be the place to be!

This isn't just about scoring some killer prom essentials; it’s a full-blown celebration of Lakota culture and values, celebrating family and the beauty of authenticity.

According to Julie Garreau, the fire-cracking CEO of CRYP, this event isn’t just about finding the perfect dress—though, let's be honest, that's a blast! No, it's also about embracing our heritage and using age-old wisdom to face modern-day challenges with style and grace.

This year's Passion for Fashion theme, "Identity by Design," invites attendees to not only rock their own style but to also dig deep into the traditional regalia and see how modern Native designers are setting the fashion scene on fire!

Upon arrival, teens will be treated to a scrumptious luncheon catered by the youth project’s own Keya (Turtle) Cafe, while Miss He Sapa 2024-25, Eunice Straighthead, delivers a speech to pump up the crowd. Then it’s time to dive into a glorious world of gowns, shoes, accessories, and some serious pampering!

Expect hair styling, makeovers, and manicures to be part of the day’s charm. Community ambassadors and volunteers will be there to keep the exciting vibes high, with a fashion show set to close the evening in style. Not to mention, swag bags loaded with goodies await!

The youth project is calling for donations of new and gently used formalwear and accessories, with a special shout-out for sizes 16-26 in dresses and 9-12 in shoes. Any contributions are golden, and if you can't make it by March 7, no worries, they'll still accept items afterward. Curious how you can help? Scope out more details at lakotayouth.org/passion-for-fashion.

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