Photo: (l to r) Rincon tribal members Shalome Briggs, Councilwoman Laurie Gonsalez, Native Star Owner Ruth-Ann Thorn and Liz Rodgers by Skylar Tillman
Ruth Ann Thorn made history last weekend, hosting the first-ever Native Star Fashion Show in downtown San Diego's Gaslamp District. It was historic for many reasons. It was the first event that featured 10 Native American designers and a runway of Native American models. But it also has a backstory. It was held in a place where Thorn says Native Americans were not allowed to enter in the 1850s. “I’m thrilled to say we had over 500 attendees on both Friday and Saturday nights! The energy was electric, and it was deeply moving to witness such a diverse audience come together to celebrate our cultures and heritage in a space that was once closed to us. It felt like a beautiful reclamation of our history.”
Thorn is a proud tribal member at the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians, 40 miles northeast of San Diego. She is adamant about highlighting her people’s talent while also educating others about Native American traditions. Before the models took the stage, there was drumming and prayer. “It is essential for us to honor our heritage; without it, we lose our identity as Indigenous peoples of this land. Our culture is ingrained in our DNA. Therefore, opening our celebrations with prayer and a drum circle is a way of inviting the Creator's presence to bless our gathering.” She wanted to be sure the space was blessed. “Each night, we featured a different group to kick off the festivities with drumming and prayer, creating a sacred space as we prepared for the fashion show. This not only honored our models and designers but also the hair and makeup artists, ensuring that everyone involved felt a part of this spiritual journey.”
Ruth Ann Thorn is the owner of Native Star, a clothing boutique and gallery. She opened the space in San Diego in May 2025, with the hope of shining a positive light on up-and-coming designers and promoting professionals like Patricia Michaels who starred on Project Runway. "We have always been fashion-forward; in fact, we have a rich history of innovative design as the original creators of fashion on this continent. It’s time for the world to recognize this and see us as powerful creatives. I hope that attendees leave with a deeper appreciation for our culture and the incredible artistry we bring to the fashion industry. We want to celebrate our identity as the first peoples of this land, long before America was born, and this event is a step towards that recognition.”
The fashion show was a hit. VIP seats sold out online, and curious crowds looked on Friday and Saturday evenings. Ruth Ann says producing the show was a labor of love. Her initial plan was to host a smaller-scale trunk show. But she felt the ancestors guiding her to do more. “That’s what happens,” she says. “I hear them saying this is what it’s going to be, and then I, as an entrepreneur and businesswoman, have to follow that lead.”
As for what’s next? “This was our first annual fashion show, and I envision many more to come! Highlighting the talents of fashion designers is crucial for inclusivity within our community. My goal is to continue organizing events that showcase and celebrate our culture, creating a platform for both Native and non-Native people to come together and experience the richness of our traditions through fashion.
The feedback and response were overwhelming. “They love the idea that we are being seen in a luxury setting, and in order for us to rise, we have to look at ourselves from a different point of view.”
The event also gave people an opportunity to learn about her boutique and gallery. Thorn says she hopes to see Native Star thrive in major cities, not only within the United States but on a global scale. “It’s important to me that our culture and creativity are showcased widely, fostering connections and understanding across different communities.”
“This is just the beginning,” she says. “Because we’re still here!”
