Trendsetter: Get to Know Sherenté Mishitashin Harris

Photograph courtesy of Sherenté Mishitashin Harris.

How would you describe yourself?

I am Niantic Narragansett, a descendant of the Royal House of Ninigret, and a citizen of the Narragansett Indian Tribe. We are the sole tribal nation governing in the state of Rhode Island today. I am Two-Spirit or Noh Waashpit, meaning within my community I take on roles of both men and women. I come from a family of seven children and am blessed to share my home with Nukomis (my grandmother). I am turning twenty-five this June!

You’re a very outspoken person. How much do you think about expression when deciding what to wear?

My mother and grandmothers are all outspoken Narragansett women. They taught me we are always representing our people and our ancestors. Beyond this, they demonstrated to me the power of womanhood. Our women are the leaders of our families. They taught me that taking the bit of effort to adorn yourself in beauty can be a way of honoring your body. Beyond this, for better or for worse, it absolutely changes the way others treat you. Fashion provides the means for us to reclaim authority in the way we take up space. 

What elements of Native American culture do you enjoy showcasing in your attire?

I wear my rabbit necklace, wampum/copper rings, silver/turquoise/coral bracelets and earrings every single day. I sleep and bathe with much of my jewelry on. I wear it while I paint, while I work, clean and cook. My jewelry is a reflection of sacred imagery and a collection of sacred objects that remind me to dream. It is medicine that empowers my actions. 

What is a typical daily outfit for you?

I try to keep my daily outfits anything but typical. Each day deserves a new look! There are some constants: [My] outfits always include heels. One day I might wear a denim suit with a white pussy-bow blouse, a statement sterling silver pin and an heirloom mink coat and muff. Another day, I might wear a Naiomi Glasses wool dress paired with one of my great-grandmother’s concha belts and a matching wool coat.

How does being Two-Spirit influence how you dress?

Because I have long hair, when I’m in the outside world, people have always seen me as a girl. But, when I’m home, I often dress “like a boy.” Even those ideas of what a boy looks like in our community aren’t the same as what some people expect. A boy wearing earrings, for example, is seen as perfectly masculine. I find deep comfort in being my mother’s son and my mother’s daughter. The fact that my Mama recognizes me in both lights is a gift. But the fact that my Mama can look in my eyes and always find me, no matter how I look, is a divine and rare magic.

Favorite local spots to get your clothing pieces?

Narragansett people were described by the Colonists as being the paramount makers of wampum in the region. I suggest people check out Narragansett artists who keep this tradition alive like Allen Hazard at The Purple Shell. My favorite clothing designer is Jamie Okuma.