What would it take to start seeing Indigenous fashion brands held to the same caliber as Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and Prada? Lesley Hampton is at the forefront of that question.

In this inspiring episode of the Matriarch Movement podcast, host Shayla Oulette Stonechild sits down with acclaimed Anishinaabe artist and fashion designer Lesley Hampton (she/her).

Lesley shares her incredible journey, from learning to sew at just 4 years old to launching her eponymous fashion brand in 2016 with a mission to bring more inclusivity, diversity and Indigenous representation to the fashion industry.

Lesley discusses how her background in art and art history deeply informs her design process, allowing her to weave powerful Indigenous storytelling and conceptual themes into each of her collections. She is passionate about using fashion as a medium to promote mental health awareness, body neutrality and community empowerment. 

As an Indigenous entrepreneur, Lesley has faced her fair share of challenges, from burnout to navigating the ruthless fashion world. However, she has emerged stronger, focusing on her own wellbeing and surrounding herself with a small, but mighty team that shares her values. For Lesley, true success is not about fame or accolades, but about finding internal happiness, nurturing healthy relationships, and using her platform to uplift other Indigenous creatives.

Looking ahead, Lesley shares her hopes for the future of Indigenous fashion – to see an Indigenous-owned brand achieve the same level of mainstream recognition as legacy fashion houses. She also reveals her dream collaborations, including working with acclaimed actress Lily Gladstone and the iconic Alexander McQueen.

Through her vulnerable, community-driven approach, Lesley Hampton is not only redefining what Indigenous fashion can be, but paving the way for the next generation of Indigenous designers to confidently take up space in this industry and beyond. To follow Lesley’s journey and support her incredible work, be sure to connect with her on Instagram @ and shop the latest collections at lesleyhampton.com.

Thanks for checking out this episode of the Matriarch Movement podcast! If you enjoyed the conversation, please leave a comment and thumbs-up on YouTube, or leave a five star review on your favorite podcast app!

Find Shayla Oulette Stonechild on Instagram: @shayla0h
Follow Matriarch Movement on instagram at @matriarch.movement

• Our producer is Nicole Robertson with Muskwa Productions.
• Our podcast producer is Kattie Laur.
• Our videographer is Sara Cornthwaite.
• Behind the scenes photography is by Kiki Guerard, Michelle Aregentieri, and Stephanie Neves.

Special thanks to the Indigenous Screen Office for supporting this video podcast! Hiy Hiy!