Chickasaw at London College of Fashion

Chickasaw pursuing fashion dreamsMaya Stewart had big dreams as a Chickasaw/Creek girl growing up in the small town of Washington, Okla. She dreamed of a career in the fashion industry, living in Los Angeles, studying in London and exploring the world.

Many of those dreams have become reality for Stewart, who is an honors student of accessory design at the London College of Fashion.

Stewart was among the handful of students recently accepted into the honors program after two years of diligent study at the prestigious school.And:As a child, she loved watching her mother and aunts making quilts and clothes based on Native American designs.

Her mother, Jimmie Carole Stewart, who is Creek, developed a design line with her sisters. It is known as the Fife collection, based on the family name of Maya’s uncle Bill Fife, who has served as principal Chief of the Creek Nation.And:Once she completes her education, she hopes to develop her own line of fashion accessories.

“My goal is to have my own line,” said Stewart. “I would like a line featuring only Native American designs, but with a modern twist.”Comment:  For more on the subject, see Native Designers at Fashion Week and Native Fashions and Models.