Jamie Gentry
My name is Jamie and I am from the Kwakwaka’wakw Nation. I was fortunate to grow up immersed in culture and surrounded by talented artists. My whole life I was drawn to the arts, music, dance, drawing, painting, but I was particularly drawn to working with my hands, whether it was sewing, beading or weaving.
For as long as I can remember I have wanted to make moccasins. However it wasn’t until we moved to Sooke, that I was able to find a teacher and from that day forward I have not stopped.
My goal is to create meaningful connections through moccasins making. When we connect with the maker and the product, we are more likely to hold that product closer to us, and it is less likely for that product to end up in a landfill. I hope to contribute a meaningful product to the world, build connections and share culture.
Each pair of moccasins is custom made. I do not cut into my hides until I know who the moccasins are for. This way I can put thoughtful, specific intentions into each pair, for every individual.
I make traditional, custom made moccasins for modern day living. My focus is on style, comfort and durability with an emphasis on sustainability. Each pair is cut, beaded, sewn, carved by hand and infused with love making each pair unique.
From my heart to your sole
Jamie Gentry,
Awards & Features
Bc Achievement Award
2018 Western Living Designer of the Year:
One to Watch
“...for her intricately designed moccasins with a message…”
‘Indigenous Culture Has Been Appropriated For Too Long. Here Are 7 Artists to Support’ InStyle
“Mocassins have been appropriated by big companies for decades. Jaimie Gentry of the Kwakwaka’wakw Nation creates custom pairs to bring tradition back to the style”
(Moccasin’s by Jamie Gentry Designs)
‘13 Indigenous Clothing Brands to Support and Follow’ Cosmopolitan
“This Indigenous brand has a strong focus on sustainability. Each pair of moccasins created by Jamie Gentry, from the Kwakwaka’wakw Nation, is custom made-to-order with that person in mind…”
‘23 Indigenous Fashion Brands: Clothing, Jewelry, Accessories And Shoes’ HuffPost
“Leaves and vines curling up buttery leather, a fit like a hug for your feet ― Gentry’s standout moccasins raise the bar on fashionable, meaningful footwear. Her pieces age beautifully and her dedication to process shines through in the subtle embellishments, glowing raw materials and small personal touches…”
(Moccasins by Jamie Gentry Designs)
‘CULTURAL LINES: When Appreciation Is Appropriation In Disguise’ STUDIO
“She is passionate in her belief that whilst shopping for authentic indigenous products helps support both the artist and the community at a grassroots level, it’s also an opportunity to become better educated. Bypassing this removes consumers’ connection to the indigenous culture and community from which it stems: “Appropriation turns culture into a trend, and devalues the true meaning behind our art forms,” she (Jamie) says…”
(Moccasins by Jamie Gentry Designs)