Reservation Dogs’s Paulina Alexis Spotlighted Indigenous Jewelry at the 2024 Emmy Awards
It was a big night for the cast of Reservation Dogs at last night’s 2024 Emmy Awards. Though it s leading stars Paulina Alexis, Devery Jacobs, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, and Lane Factor didn’t bring home any accolades, they still all broke barriers—representing the Indigenous community at a glitzy Hollywood event that has sparsely recognized and uplifted Native talent; the show was up for Outsanding Comedy Series. “I loved celebrating the show, and finally being recognized not as presenters, but as nominees,” says Alexis. “It was just the greatest feeling. I felt incredibly honored to represent Indigenous comedy.”
To those within Indian Country, seeing Reservation Dogs—one of the best comedies on TV ever—get nominated at the Emmys was long-overdue. And for its leading cast, being a part of such a monumental project is an experience they will cherish forever. “I’m so grateful I have been a part of such an outstanding series—it was a hell of a ride,” says Alexis, who recognized how much the series has meant to fans. “This show has changed how society sees our people. Not only that, but it sends a positive messages to our kids on the reserves; It shows our kids that’s it’s ok to be proud of who they are. It’s like they are seeing themselves on TV, which I felt I didn’t see when I was growing up.”
Given it was such a special evening, it was only natural that Alexis have a meaningful look for the red carpet to match. Working with stylist Amanda Lim, hairstylist Matthew Collins, and makeup artist Kendal Fedail, the star landed on a striking ensemble that was all about spotlighting Indigenous-made jewelry. Of course, Alexis also had an added fashion challenge: She is currently 37 weeks pregnant, and had to find a design that was both comfortable and chic. “I really wanted to incorporate being a soon-to-be mom into my look,” says Alexis. “I didn’t get a plus one to this historical Emmys evening, but I managed to smuggled one in anyway—my son!”
She and Lim landed on a white Christian Siriano crisscross gown that clung in all the right places. “With my baby bump, I was looking for something where I didn’t look like a rain drop,” jokes Alexis. The pair then punctuated the frock with custom pieces by Joe Big Mountain, a master quillwork artist who is Mohawk, Comanche, Cree, and has also been worn by stars like Lily Gladstone. She chose the artist’s intricate quill earrings, and a harness made of quills, beads, and dentalium shells. “Joe Big Mountain created incredible custom jewelry for me, which included a necklace with a chain that wraps around my bump, and really shows it off,” says Alexis. “Most importantly, I’m excited because I got to share this moment with my son, who is on the journey with me tonight.”
It’s not the first time Alexis has used the red carpet as a moment to uplift Indigenous designers. Since her star has taken off with Reservation Dogs, the actor has consistently worn Native artists on the step and repeat, including custom ribbon tops and skirts by Dabney Warren, or striking jewelry from Ataumbi Metals. For Alexis, she sees using fashion as a form of representation. “The one thing about Indigenous jewelry is that every piece tells a story. I have been gifted so many amazing hand-crafted [pieces] from so many talented indigenous artists across Turtle Island,” says Alexis. “To name a few designers I love: Robin Waynee, Jennifer Younger, and Keri Ataumbi.” Her latest Joe Big Mountain pieces will have a sentimental place in her jewelry box. “I love the authenticity of the red custom piece Joe made for me—smells like real moose hide! Red represents life, unity, and strength, and that’s what my son means to me.”
Below, see how Alexis got ready for the 2024 Emmy Awards.
Photo: Max Montgomery1/7
Photo: Max Montgomery2/7
