Rooted in Heritage: The Journey of Anne Mulaire

Chase Your Dreams

In this episode, Andréanne Mulaire Dandeneau, founder and designer of Anne Mulaire shares her journey of building a sustainable fashion brand rooted in her Métis heritage. She discusses the importance of authenticity and her commitment to ethical manufacturing and community support in the age of fast fashion. Anne emphasizes the significance of storytelling in fashion and how her cultural background influences her designs. She also highlights her initiatives to reduce waste and promote sustainability within the fashion industry, while offering valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

About Andréanne (Anne) Mulaire

Anne Mulaire is an award-winning fashion brand founded by Red River Métis designer, Andréanne Mulaire Dandeneau. This woman-led brand blends ethical manufacturing, inclusivity and Indigenous teachings, setting new standards for sustainable fashion in Canada. Rooted in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the brand started 20 years ago in Andreane’s parents' basement. Her collections celebrate Métis heritage through vibrant designs, eco-friendly practices, and empowering Indigenous communities.

Innovative practices have cut the brand's carbon footprint by 30%, reduced 15,000 pounds of textile waste, and lowered emissions equal to 143,200 kilometers of driving. In 2024, Anne Mulaire received the Sustainable Business Award from the Red River Métis Excellence Awards, nomination from the Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards, and Clean 50 Award in 2025. As Canada's first Indigenous-owned B Corp certified apparel manufacturer Anne Mulaire champions integrity, transparency, and sustainability.

Contact info

Website: https://annemulaire.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annemulaire/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnneMulaire

Takeaways

• Stay rooted in your beliefs to maintain authenticity.
• Customers are drawn to brands with compelling stories.
• Fashion should reflect personal and cultural identity.
• Sustainability is about relationships and responsibility.
• Education plays a key role in promoting sustainability.
• Design with the end of life in mind for products.
• Navigating challenges requires resilience and creativity.
• Local community support can contribute greatly to brand success.
• Surround yourself with like-minded individuals for guidance.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Staying Rooted in Authenticity

02:06 The Birth of a Brand: Inspiration and Heritage

09:54 Filling the Gap: Ethical Fashion in a Fast Fashion World

11:48 Defining Sustainability: Values and Relationships

17:57 Navigating Challenges: Staying True to Values

20:32 Community Support: The Backbone of Success

23:50 Creating Impact: Education and Sustainability Initiatives

30:06 Designing for the Future: End-of-Life Considerations

34:07 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Growth

35:30 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Starting with Your Why