My name is Lindsay O’Keese and I am a member of the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation. I am in the process of a career change from Social Work, which I’ve practiced in the last 10 years to Fashion Design. I am currently designing my first clothing line, Fall/Winter 2014 along with business planning.
I have always dreamed of owning a clothing business, but didn’t think it could be a reality due to my busy career in Social Work. I never thought it was possible to learn how to design and sew until I started at The Make Den (my transition from Social Work to Fashion Design was a two year process which included a move and many hours of research and planning). I started off with the beginners sewing class at the end of May 2014 and then completed 6 weeks of camp throughout July and August 2014. During that time, I learned how to illustrate, draft and sew my own pattern for a jacket. Completing this jacket has given me the confidence that I needed to continue in Fashion Design and start my own business.
My business name is Iskwe Couture. “Iskwe” is a Cree/Plains Cree word meaning ‘woman”. My clothing line will initially be based out of my home where production will take place and marketing will be done via social media such as Instagram, Facebook and Etsy until I am in a place financially to open a store. My clothing line will focus primarily on trendy outerwear and accessories and will include Pendleton fabric, which is a tribal design that is popular in many First Nations communities in Canada and the United States. Leather is another favourite, which will be included in most of my designs.
Every step in this new journey has been exciting! A lot of creativity, patience and hard work go into Fashion Design, business planning and marketing. I am learning something new everyday and I am excited about my future endeavours. My designs and new journey can be followed on Instagram @miss_lking81 Iskwe Couture By Lindsay. I am always open to making new connections and supporting others in their journey.
“Choose A Job You Love And You Will Never Have To Work A Day In Your Life” –Confucus
Check out Iskwe Couture on instagram here.