Gladys Michell is the creative director of Creative Purses by Gladys Michell, a contemporary Indigenous fashion accessories brand that incorporates modern bag designs with bold motifs.

Gladys is from Saik’uz First Nation, and has lived in Stellat’en for 33 years with her husband Robert Michell, Chief of Stellat’en First Nation. Her passion for fashion began when she was a little girl, and her love for sewing and pattern designing deepened with the passing of her mother and grandmother. Sewing became a way to process her grief, and share parts of herself with the world. 
 

How did you get your unique start into fashion and leather work? 

I started sewing as a little girl with my grandma, she taught us and a couple of my cousins as well. We started out making little dresses like Barbie clothes, and then began learning how to draw the patterns of what we wanted the clothes to look like. I have been sewing on and off since then. My grandmother died in 2003, I remember her words: “When you make something with your hand, it is more honourable in Potlach.” So, I decided that I was going to make all my gifts for her Potlatch.  
 

What kind of gifts did you make for her potlach?

I made about 20 quilts. My late Auntie Florence assisted me in making the quilts that we gifted to the community. After the Potlach, my life became busy and I had to put my sewing machine away. A few years later, my mum passed, and I had to bring it out again. I was so lost in my grief that I found just some peace in sewing. So, I started sewing for her.

Did the passing of your mum inspire you to explore sewing fashion items? 

Yes. I made probably over 100 quilts and I was already tired of doing them and needed to find something else to sew. It’s a funny story, my husband and I went on a fishing trip for our anniversary to Prince Rupert. We stopped in Hazelton and came across a couple of authentic Indigenous bags in a tourist booth. They caught my eye, and I knew instinctively that I could make those bags as well. I took the chance and asked for the bag maker’s contact, and the rest is history. I have collaborated with various artists since then.  

Can you tell us about any noteworthy collaborations you've been involved in and how they have influenced your work?

Collaboration is a significant aspect of the fashion industry. My first collaboration was with Alex Haley, an amazing Indigenous jewelry artist, and he was really a stepping stone for me. I ordered a piece of jewelry from him, he asked me about my craftsmanship, and offered to collaborate with me. I have also worked with Yasakw Yakgujanaas designs, a graphic artist. I was intrigued by her art, and knew she would be a perfect fit to showcase her art on the purses that I make. My friend Bev has been a great support to me as well when trying to sell my purses online or in-person. My husband also encouraged me to turn my love for sewing into a brand. So, we decided to name it Creative Purses by Gladys Michell.

How would you describe your design aesthetic, and what sets your brand apart?

I will say that my brand is very authentic in the sense that all the purses that I create are custom made, and one of a kind. I try not to make two bags the same, and thanks to the graphic artist who creates these Indigenous inspired designs with me, it makes them original pieces of artwork.

How long does it take on average to make one purse? 

Depending on the size, it takes an average of 7 hours. If it's a bigger bag with more complicated pattern designs, it takes about 10 hours.

Do you have a particular audience you have in mind when creating your collections?

My bags are for everyone to use. I get asked this question a lot, some women have said that they really want to wear my bags but worry that they are not Indigenous. However, I create this bag with cultural appreciation in mind, plus you’re not only supporting one indigenous artist but two! 

What advice would you give to aspiring Indigenous fashion entrepreneurs who are just starting their journey in the industry?

My number one advice is to be curious and continue to ask questions. If there is anyone who is eager to learn, you can reach out to me and I can suggest groups, YouTube videos and online resources that will be of great assistance in your journey. I have an open-door policy, and usually excited to help people. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, and once you get over that fear, every project you undertake becomes better with time. 

Where can readers see and buy your purses? 

You can find them on Facebook when you search ‘Creative purses by Gladys Michell’