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 wardrobe.
In-House Circularity
Our Seattle studio provides alterations and upcycling to transform the clothes you already own.
Questions, answered.
It depends on the piece. Bombers, coats and upcycled styles cut from reclaimed and vintage textiles are made once, in the size shown — when one sells, it is gone and cannot be remade. Other styles are made in small batches from new natural fibers. The product description tells you which.
Eligible items can be returned within 30 days. If you love the piece but the fit is close, our Seattle studio can alter it — get in touch and we will advise before you decide.
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.
Every Transcend piece is artisan made — by our makers in Seattle or by artisan and production partners in India, Bangladesh and Uzbekistan. Each product page identifies the material and making story for that piece.
We produce in small batches and offer in-house repairs and upcycling to keep your garments in circulation longer.