Quannah Chasinghorse is a 19-year-old Indigenous model and activist who is making waves in the fashion industry while also advocating for the rights and visibility of Indigenous communities. Breaking barriers, she became the first Indigenous woman to walk for Chanel during Fashion Week and has graced the runways of Chloé, Savage x Fenty, Gabriela Hearst, and Prabal Gurung. But for Quannah, her journey in fashion is just one part of her greater mission: to amplify the voices and stories of Native American communities.
1. Quannah Chasinghorse: Breaking Barriers in the Fashion Industry
Her Modeling Career
Quannah’s journey as a model began in 2020 with Calvin Klein’s #ckone campaign, marking the start of an inspiring career. With her striking looks and unique presence, Quannah quickly became a go-to model for top fashion houses such as Chanel, Prabal Gurung, Chloé, and Savage x Fenty. She has also graced the covers of Vogue Mexico, Vogue Japan, and Elle, bringing Indigenous representation to the global fashion stage.
A Major Milestone for Indigenous Representation
Quannah is not only breaking fashion norms but also changing the narrative for Indigenous communities. “We’ve always been a stereotype, a mascot. We’ve always been seen as not real humans. It’s time for us to be recognized for who we really are,” she says. Through her work, Quannah is redefining beauty standards and paving the way for more Indigenous youth to see themselves in the fashion industry.
2. Empowering Indigenous Youth: Quannah's Call for Change
Quannah is much more than a model; she is a passionate activist for Indigenous rights and environmental causes. She has been actively involved in protecting the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska and is a member of the Alaska Wilderness League. As a fourth-generation advocate, she uses her platform to raise awareness about issues like oil drilling in protected lands and pushes for action on behalf of her people.
Cultural Pride Through Traditional Face Tattoos
One of Quannah's most distinctive features is her traditional face tattoos, known as Yidįįłtoo, which are a part of the Hän Gwich'in culture. She received her first tattoo at the age of 14 from her mother, marking her transition into womanhood. These tattoos represent both cultural pride and a powerful statement about Indigenous identity.
3. Quannah Chasinghorse and Her Message of Pride
Quannah Chasinghorse's story is not just about success in the fashion world but also about making a lasting impact on how society views Indigenous people. She encourages Indigenous youth to "step up, use our voices, and be proud of who we are." Her journey is a beacon of hope for the next generation of Indigenous youth who are ready to take their place in the world.
4. The Importance of Indigenous Representation in Fashion
Fashion isn’t just about style; it is a powerful platform for societal change. Through her presence in the fashion industry, Quannah is helping to bring attention to Indigenous issues and challenging the industry's lack of representation for Native communities. She is not just a model-she is a symbol of confidence, resilience, and the desire for social change.
5. Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Indigenous Representation
Through her modeling career and activism, Quannah Chasinghorse is changing the fashion world and inspiring Indigenous communities everywhere. She is a role model who proves that with determination and pride, anyone can break barriers and redefine the standards. Her work goes beyond fashion-she is shaping the future for Indigenous youth to embrace their heritage, speak their truths, and make an impact.