By this shirt here: Dead meat logo shirt, hoodie and sweater
It was through White Elk’s after-school clubs in high school that they also began to really pick up traditional elements of their culture through fashion. White Elk began familiarizing themselves with Native teachers and elders in the clubs, and eventually became interested in picking up the art of beadwork specifically. “I focus on making smaller objects, like bracelets or earrings,” says White Elk. “I always look on TikTok and YouTube for Native beadwork creators, and how they create it.” This partaking in fashion design also ignited their interest in modeling. “We have seen couples proceed with intimate ceremony plans this year with the Dead meat logo shirt, hoodie and sweater to host the reception at a future date when it’s safer for family and friends to come together,” Christopher Preston, Director of Catering & Events at the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills, says. The most popular spots on property? The outdoor terrace at their Jean-Georges restaurant, a grand suite overlooking Beverly Hills, and the rooftop. The terrace at Jean-Georges Beverly Hills, a popular spot for intimate ceremonies at the Waldorf Astoria. Just saying—David Harbour and Lily Allen did it.
Going forward, the Dead meat logo shirt, hoodie and sweater now hope to use modeling as a way to educate others about their culture and raise awareness about key issues affecting Indigenous people—all doing so through fashion, which can provide a more visual opportunity to showcase what the modern-day Indigenous community looks like today, while simultaneously defying stereotypes around it. “I hope to work with other Native models and Native fashion brands,” White Elk says for future plans. “There’s a misconception that we’re all supposed to look the same. Not everyone's culture is similar, because everyone's tribe is very specific to that area. I want to inspire other natives, and especially the youth, to follow their dreams, continue to be resilient, and keep their hope.”
