Indigenous Fashion Designer Korina Emmerich Wins Pratt Fashion Visionary Award

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Korina Emmerich, an Indigenous fashion designer with deep ties to the Puyallup tribe, has been awarded the 2026 Pratt Fashion Visionary Award for her innovative work that blends fashion, community engagement, and social justice. Emmerich's designs challenge colonial frameworks, elevate underrepresented voices, and showcase the power of Indigenous futurism, making her a force for change in the industry.

Why it matters

Emmerich's work highlights the profound impact that fashion designers can have on society, using their craft as a platform for cultural expression, sustainability, and social commentary. By honoring Emmerich, the Pratt Fashion Visionary Award recognizes the potential for fashion to be a catalyst for positive change and a means of empowering marginalized communities.

The details

Emmerich's holistic approach to fashion goes beyond just creating garments; she crafts experiences, narratives, and movements that challenge conventions and foster a more inclusive, sustainable future. By drawing upon her Indigenous heritage, particularly her connection to the Puyallup tribe, Emmerich infuses her designs with a deep sense of history and identity. Her commitment to community engagement and collaboration has led her to work with organizations like Slow Factory Foundation and the Fibers Fund, building bridges between diverse groups of people. Emmerich's designs also showcase her dedication to sustainable practices, incorporating repurposed and responsibly sourced materials to minimize the industry's environmental impact.

• Emmerich was awarded the 2026 Pratt Fashion Visionary Award.

What’s next

Emmerich plans to use the recognition and platform provided by the Pratt Fashion Visionary Award to continue expanding her work with Indigenous communities, promoting sustainable fashion practices, and challenging the industry to be more inclusive and socially responsible.