Indigenous-owned clothing brand TÓPA recently partnered with American fashion house Ralph Lauren for the fourth instalment of its Artist in Residence program.

The collection blends distinctive cultural elements of the Indigenous brand with the signature style of the American retailer.

The brand is owned by husband and wife team Trae and Jocy Little Sky of the Oceti Sakowin.

Ms Little Sky is Dakota and belongs to the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nations while Mr Little Sky is a member of the Oglala Lakota and Stoney Nakoda nations.

TÓPA serves as an extension of the Northern Plains roots of the founders.

The line merges modern silhouettes with Indigenous design motifs including the colours red, black, yellow and white.

The family embraces traditional arts by hand-crafting regalia used during Pow Wows (a celebratory gathering of culture).

They utilise time-honoured techniques such as quilling, beading and leatherwork.

Ms Little Sky said the new partnership celebrated the history of her family.

"Tópa began as an idea carried through our family a vision shaped by the artists, makers, and storytellers who came before us," she said.

Ms Little Sky said those ancestors paved the way for the current generation.

"Their creativity opened the path we walk today, and their influence continues to guide every piece we design," she said.

The founders said they wanted to create clothing that respected their origins.

"What started as inspiration has become a purpose: to create clothing that honors who we are, where we come from, and the stories that built us," they said.

Mr Little Sky explained the translation of the brand name in the languages of the Oceti Sakowin.

"Topa means four," he said.

"It is a significant number because it represents the four seasons, the four stages of life, four directions and the dimensions of being."

The collection features men's and women's apparel alongside various accessories.

Mr Little Sky said the design process was highly intentional.

"We design with intention, blending cultural motifs with modern silhouettes to share our identity in a way that feels elevated, wearable, and true," he said.

"Through each collection, we carry forward the legacy of our people showing that our culture is living, evolving, and very much still here," she said.

The Artist in Residence program invites artisans to partner directly with design teams.

This initiative helps the company move from inspiration to direct collaboration.

Ms Little Sky said she had respected the American brand for a long time.

"We've long admired Ralph Lauren and how the brand brings worlds to life through its designs and storytelling," she said.

The campaign features a short film shot on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation.

Ms Little Sky said the project validated their specific way of life.

"This collaboration with Polo Ralph Lauren honors our community, culture and way of life," she said.

Ralph Lauren will donate a percentage of the purchase price from the collection as funds will go to the Thunder Valley Community Development Corporation.

This money specifically supports the Lakota Language and Education Initiative.

The founders said the brand was an extension of the Northern Plains.

"Tópa is more than a brand; it is an extension of our roots, a reflection of the Northern Plains, and an expression of the art our families passed down," they said.

The Design with Intent program aims to expand the portrayal of America.

Ms Little Sky said she wanted the clothing to encourage others.

"We hope this collection inspires people to be proud of who they are, where they come from and to follow their dreams," she said.

The collection is available globally via the Ralph Lauren website.