VIFW 2025 Interview with Fashion Designer Pam Himikalas Baker of T.O.C. Legends

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Pam Himikalas Baker of T.O.C. Legends will be showing her latest collection on the runway at VIFW on November 22nd - Spirit of the West Coast. Purchase your tix HERE!

VIFW Bio -

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T.O.C. Legends House of Design: Himikalas is a celebrated Indigenous fashion designer, artist, and entrepreneur with 45 years of traditional teachings and a lifetime of creative expression. She is the force behind Touch of Culture and T.O.C. Legends Designs, known for her award-winning work in fashion, jewelry, and installation art. With Coast Salish, Kwakiutl, and Tlingit roots, she weaves cultural protocol into every design, inspiring the next generation through residencies, mentorship, and legacy work across Turtle Island.

Follow them on Instagram: @himikalas

Interview -

How did you learn your skills?

The art from my family lineage. Sewing was not my favorite, so I decided to go to Capilano University to take a 2 year program in Textile arts. I loved it.

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Then my Squamish career counselor asked if I would like to pursue a degree in fashion design, either at Parsons in NYC, or Otis in LA. Otis it was. After a very, very challenging three years, I received my BFA in fashion design and won two prestigious awards.

Who are you as a designer?

I am the owner of T.O.C. (Touch of Culture), T.O.C. Legends Fashion Design House, and Copperknot Jewelry.

What comes easiest for you as a designer? What is hardest?

Finally today is easier. I have my dream team. I love doing the art first, then applying it to my designs, which makes it easier. My training at Otis College of Art and Design taught me to create, develop and DO.

Where do you find inspiration for new collections?

My Art!

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How important is color to your design process?

I do check out the year's new color predictions, but most of the time I use our traditional colors. For ready to wear I can have fun with color

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Readers would love to know more about the current collection you showed at Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week 2025.

Currently collections are the Nobility & The Undersea Kingdom that I'll be showcasing at VIFW '25. Each collection is inspired by my ancestors and the past. It will be great to see you there to witness these designs come to life.

Do you have a favorite look in this collection?

Favourite piece is the final piece which is currently in production which relates to the theme of VIFW - AIR.

Where can readers purchase your designs?

They can email me for custom orders, pambaker@toclegendshouseofdesign.ca.
Ready to wear can be found online at www.legaleriste.com/touch.of.culture and www.toclegendshouseofdesign.ca

What's next for you as a designer and your brand?

Having more ready to wear for retail, and designing for Sante fe Fashion week in May and August. And possibly more shows....

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In closing is there anything else you'd like to share with readers?

I always share the following when offering a success tip. Eliminate the following words from your vocabulary: try, can't, should, but, hate and lastly like. You will find you will just do!

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