OldTribes is a family-owned Canadian brand based in Edmonton, specializing in clothing and accessories inspired by ethnic motifs. The company is best known for its premium alpaca wool garments, its close collaborations with skilled artisans, and its seamless blend of traditional techniques with modern design. You can read more about the brand’s history and unique flair over at edmontonka.com.
The Origins of OldTribes
The brand’s story began in 2005 with a small white minivan packed to the brim with handmade jackets from Ecuador. The founders drove across Canada, traveling everywhere from the bustling streets of Montreal to the remote, quiet corners of the Northwest Territories. Their core goal was simple yet profound: to create clothing that does more than just protect against harsh winters, but also shares the rich history of Indigenous artisans and the timeless traditions of the Kichwa people.
In 2006, the brand put down roots in Edmonton and opened its first storefront. From day one, the mission went far beyond simply selling clothes. As OldTribes grew, it forged strong connections with Indigenous communities across Canada. By working closely together, they successfully blended the incredible warmth of Ecuadorian alpaca wool with the creative vision of Canadian Indigenous designers. The result is a unique cultural fusion—each garment stands as a testament to this partnership, symbolizing warmth, history, and exceptional craftsmanship.
This family business is built upon traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations of Kichwa artisans. At OldTribes, every piece is crafted from ethically sourced alpaca wool. This reflects an unwavering commitment to sustainability, fair trade, and preserving the cultural heritage that breathes life into their products.
The OldTribes team believes they aren’t just making clothes; they are making a positive impact on the world. Every item the brand offers carries a piece of a much larger story. When customers from around the globe buy these garments, they are directly supporting the designers who pour their skill and passion into every stitch. This support helps keep traditional crafts alive and shares the beauty of these ancient techniques with the world. The brand’s strict dedication to ethical sourcing and fair labor practices guarantees that every piece is made with integrity, showing deep respect for both the creators and the earth it comes from.
Ultimately, OldTribes is more than just a brand—it is a community of people who believe in true craftsmanship, value sustainability, and respect diverse cultures by creating inspiring, one-of-a-kind designs. Over the years, the brand has proudly donated clothing to Indigenous communities in Canada and continues to offer products featuring local motifs. This reinforces their long-standing commitment to supporting the people who have generously shared their culture and art.
What Makes Their Products Unique
Customer reviews frequently highlight that OldTribes pieces bring a sense of warmth, comfort, and wearable heritage, all crafted with love. Alpaca wool is naturally soft, incredibly durable, and exceptionally warm, making it the perfect choice for biting cold days. Whether you are heading out on an outdoor adventure or just enjoying a cozy afternoon in the city, this apparel is designed to deliver comfort, undeniable style, and a genuine connection to tradition.
The brand’s commitment to quality goes well beyond its clothing lines. The team strives to provide exceptional customer service, ensuring that every interaction is handled with genuine care and attention.
Continuing its focus on pieces that feel like “wearable art,” the brand prominently offers:
- Long coats and capes: Some of their most recognizable items, designed to offer ultimate protection against the chill of severe Canadian winters.
- Ribbon skirts: A traditional cultural staple for Indigenous women in North America. The brand carefully adapts these to modern styles while deeply respecting and preserving the sacred meaning behind each ribbon.
It’s important to note that the patterns woven into the clothing are never just geometric shapes—they are vibrant stories told by the designers. The designs frequently feature representations of sacred animals, which stand as powerful symbols of protection and wisdom.