Fashion has the power to tell a story and allow individuals to express themselves. Not only can it educate about the past but also evolve over time. The stitchings and patterns on pieces of clothing are made with intentionality and can represent one’s culture. The Cherokee Tear dress is a wonderful example of this. This tear dress is “the official tribal dress for women of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma by proclamation of the National Council”. Blue Orange Cherokee Tear Dres

On November 7th 2023, toy magnate Mattel announced that they would be honoring former Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Wilma Mankiller with the release of her very own Barbie doll, within the brand’s Inspiring Women doll line. The doll, which was made available for pre-order on the day of announcement, features a design by Carlyle Nuera, who, according to the Mattel Creations website, took inspiration for the doll’s attire from a historic photograph of Mankiller (right), resul