Meet Sheila Tucker | Native American Ojibwe Fashion Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sheila Tucker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sheila, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It just came so natural because it all began with selling my beaded jewellry. Then it evolved into dress making.

Now it has essentially become my brand.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is creating couture fashion for everyone. What sets me apart from others is that every piece I create is truly one of a kind whether it be a gown or a jacket or a belt or a pair of earrings. Anything beaded is beaded with care and quality and exquisite stones. I love to use Natural Gemstones and swarovski Crystals.

I love to use the finest of fabrics.

I most proud of the fact that I went through a panel for an invite to Paris Fashion Week.

I am so proud of my very first Billboard at New York Times Square on July 18, 2022!

I am also proud of my growing number of Collectors and Models from the Pageant World such as Miss Mexico, Miss Ecuador, Miss Central Phoenix, Miss Verrado Arizona.

It was not easy to get to where I am today with my Brand.

There were many sleepless nights of working to meet deadlines.

There was financial obligations I had to commit to for Designer Fees, flights, hotels and anything related to elevating my Brand!

Overcoming challenges does not end in the fashion Industry but having a wonderful support system definitly helps!

None of my achievements could have ever happened without my son, my husband and hard work!

I have learned many lessons along the way.

Such has creating meaningful connections with my collectors.

I have learned that being a designer is hard work from start to finish every single day.

I want to say to the world that my brand strives for exquisite quality.
My story speaks through my work.

It is authentically beautiful in its own way with an indigenous touch.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My best friend since Highschool travelled to Paris Fashion Week from Saskatchewan Canada. We ate at frech cafes, we visited La Galerie Lafayette and went to the rooftop for lunch.

We went to the Fashion Show After Party and mingled with other designers and models and press.

We went to museums and bookshops and enjoyed the city of Paris.
We look forward to travelling together to the next Fashion Week Adventure.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My grandmother is my biggest inspiration. Teresa Young, she was well known for her incredible beadwork. She made a living with her beadwork and made it her business. I believe she is a poineer in that aspect because she was independant, she purchased her own home in the nearby town from our reservation, all from the work of her hands with beading. She made our clothing. If she wasnt beading she was sewing garments. So much of everything I create is something she left behind. So there is her legacy in all of my work.

Website: www.sheilatucker.net

Instagram: @sheilalynntucker

Twitter: @sheilatucker306

Facebook: Sheila Tucker

Image Credits
Jose Luis Creations by Fritz Photography ImagesbyBen