April Allen

April Allen is a contemporary Inuk designer and artist from Rigolet, Nunatsiavut, on the North Coast of Labrador. She is the visionary behind Stitched by April, a fashion label that seamlessly blends traditional Inuit materials and techniques with bold, modern design. 

Inspired by her mother and generations of Inuit seamstresses, April grew up immersed in the artistry of sewing and beading, which continue to shape her creative journey today. April’s collections are deeply rooted in Inuit heritage and the natural elements of her homeland — earth, water, air, and fire.  

Her work has garnered international attention, with showings at New York, Milan, and Paris fashion weeks.  

She is a recipient of the Milestone Award at the 18th annual Excellence in Visual Arts Awards and a celebrated presence at Indigenous fashion and cultural events across Canada. Through both her wearable art and her teaching practice, April is committed to uplifting Indigenous voices and preserving cultural knowledge, especially for youth across Northern communities.  

Beyond the runway, Stitched by April is deeply committed to cultural education. April teaches virtual sewing and beading classes to K–12 youth across Northern Canada, using traditional Inuit materials and techniques. These lessons go beyond skill-building — they are rooted in cultural knowledge and storytelling, designed to uplift, inspire, and reconnect Indigenous youth with their heritage. Through each session, April encourages creativity, healing, and pride, empowering the next generation of artists and makers in the North.