Raphaëlle Langevin: The Heart and Artistry Behind Matsheshu Créations
Hailing from the Pekuakamiulnuatsh heritage, Raphaëlle Langevin is the passionate force behind Matsheshu Créations, a brand that offers a unique blend of clothing and accessories infused with Indigenous designs. As a 2023 Aritzia Fashion Grant Recipient, Raphaëlle’s commitment to blending tradition with fashion is gaining widespread recognition.
Raphaëll’s business, Matsheshu Créations, offers a wide variety of clothing and accessories for men, women, and children. “Our accessories feature exclusive prints that I design myself, taking inspiration from traditional symbols and natural elements.” Additionally, the brand showcases hand-made jewelry crafted by Indigenous artisans, celebrating authenticity and craftsmanship.
Raphaëlle got her entrepreneurial start in 2021 when she was on maternity leave and took a chance on the launch of Matsheshu Creations. “I had been brainstorming business ideas for a couple of years and found the name during summer 2020. Matsheshu means fox in Nehlueun. It is an animal that is very meaningful to me.”
Raphaëlle’s passion for her business stems from its ability to provide a platform for creation, education, and sharing. Through Matsheshu Créations, she uplifts individuals, opens doors of opportunity, and supports her family, all while pursuing what she deeply cherishes.
When asked about her take on Indigenous design and fashion, Raphaëlle responded, “[Indigenous fashion] is a way to show that we are still here and that we are proud of who we are.” Raphaëlle also believes that fashion is a tool that can be used to share culture and facilitate reconciliation by building those bridges.
Raphaëlle cherishes the connection between her creations and her customers. She f loves when someone resonates with her designs, “There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing someone fall in love with a skirt, a pair of earrings, a bag…I feel very grateful to be able to witness many of those magical moments.”
Looking ahead, Raphaëlle’s aspirations for Matsheshu Créations are both grand and grounded. “I envision Matsheshu Créations as a renowned brand across Turtle Island, built on a model that champions small crafters while offering a vast array of products. I hope to be able to create as many jobs as possible for Indigenous people. I want to go big, all the while staying true to our community’s values.”
Reflecting on the honor of receiving a 2023 Aritzia Indigenous Fashion Grant, Raphaëlle expressed her gratitude. “As a Mom and an entrepreneur trying to balance a fast growing business and two children under three, this recognition felt like a pat on the back encouraging me to continue giving my best.”
For Indigenous youth considering a journey into fashion, Raphaëlle encourages them to be proud of who they are, “Fashion is such a great way to create, connect and make a living. Our communities are full of talented creators. Be proud of that heritage and show it to the world!”
To watch Raphaëlle’s winning pitch in the Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finals, click here. To read more about the 2023 Aritzia Fashion Grant Recipients, click here. To shop Matsheshu Créations, click here.