Transcend Signature
Salish Dress
Distinctive by design. Made with purpose.
The Salish Dress is more than fashion—it is heritage, culture, and artistry woven into every thread. This 1960s-inspired shift dress, crafted from Osnaburg fabric sourced through post-consumer cultural clothing donations, carries the soul of Washington’s Indigenous artistry.
Its defining feature is the exquisite hand-beaded pocket flaps created by Denise L. Emerson, a master beadwork artist with over 50 years of experience. Born in Shelton, WA, and now residing in Burien, WA, Denise draws on her rich lineage as a Twana (Skokomish) and Diné (Navajo) descendant. Her beadwork reflects familial relationships and dual cultural influences, merging traditional Native methodologies with contemporary graphic design training.
Every bead is intentionally placed, making each Salish Dress a one-of-a-kind piece that honors craftsmanship and cultural storytelling. The deep red trim and vintage zipper piping nod to reclaimed heritage materials, while the dress’s clean silhouette highlights the beadwork as the central narrative.
Ready to ship in Size Medium. All other sizes will be pre-ordered. Once you place your order, we will get in touch with you to start making your dress all locally!
Due to limited quantities of available fabric, we may mix and match fabrics so every piece is one-of-a-kind and equally beautiful.
Why Transcend
What makes Transcend different
Natural fibers when new
When we make with new fabric, we choose natural fibers. Reclaimed textiles preserve useful material already in circulation.
Small-Batch Exclusivity
Small-run production reduces waste and ensures your look remains truly unique.
Modernized Heritage
Ancient artisan techniques are reimagined into wearable, contemporary silhouettes for the modern woman.
In-House Circularity
Our Seattle studio provides alterations and upcycling to transform the clothes you already own.
Fashion no longer forces a choice between striking beauty, ethical production, and your own individuality.
What customers say
Real Distinctive, Artisan Fashion & Circular Services owners.
I wore it a lot of times on my work trip. So many compliments! It’s a really quality item, you can just feel it, like all items from Transcend.
Every time I wore this coat, I got tons of compliments. I wore it with an army green top and pants of the same color over a head-to-toe monochrome look, it was slimming.
Gorgeous! Bright, vibrant colors. The jacket is in excellent shape and perfect for a fun layered look. Highly recommend!
How it works.
We source heritage textiles and adapt ancient techniques into modern silhouettes. By producing in small batches and offering in-house repairs, we ensure each piece remains a lasting part of your wardrobe.
Why Transcend
Why choose Distinctive, Artisan Fashion & Circular Services.
| Transcend | Others | |
|---|---|---|
| Natural fibers when new | ||
| Small-Batch Exclusivity | ||
| Modernized Heritage | ||
| In-House Circularity | ||
| Free shipping | $250 | |
| Money-back guarantee | 30-day no-hassle return policy |
| Transcend | Others | |
|---|---|---|
| Natural fibers when new | ||
| Small-Batch Exclusivity | ||
| Modernized Heritage | ||
| In-House Circularity | ||
| Free shipping | $250 | |
| Money-back guarantee | 30-day no-hassle return policy |
Wear the change you want to see.
Experience a wardrobe that feels like a hug from a trusted friend. Wear vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces that invite compliments and reflect your commitment to a better fashion system.
Questions, answered.
When we make products from new fabric, we choose natural fibers. Some reclaimed, vintage or deadstock textiles may contain existing synthetic fibers; reusing them keeps useful material in circulation.
We produce in small batches and offer in-house repairs and upcycling to keep your garments in circulation longer.
Transcend works with skilled makers in Seattle and artisan and production partners in India, Bangladesh and Uzbekistan. Each product page should identify the material and making story for that piece.