Concho belts gain popularity as fashion accessories

RAPID CITY — Warren Spang was among the many artists who traveled to the Lakota Nation Invitational (LNI) in Rapid City, held December 16–20. Midway through crafting a custom-made belt, he paused to speak with Native Sun News Today. Spang made the journey from his homelands on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation to sell his concho belts.

LNI began as a small basketball tournament. Since its start in 1976, it has grown into one of the largest basketball tournaments in the nation—yet it’s much more than that. It is a cultural celebration that blends athletics, academics, and art. It provides intergenerational connections, a place for Native youth to excel, and a space to show pride in their culture.

Spang served as a homeschool coordinator for Lame Deer Public School District 6 for more than 20 years. After retiring about ten years ago, he became a full-time belt maker, creating custom-sized belts, dance belts, and concho belts.

Traditionally worn with dance regalia, concho belts have also gained popularity as fashion accessories. “I make a lot of belts to go with ribbon skirts,” he said. “Everyone wants one.”

Over the years, Spang has made dance regalia, cuffs, headroaches, side drops, ankle bells, and belts, and he has repaired horse tack. He used to make hand drums as well, but stepped back when a friend took up the craft. “My buddy does such a good job. So, we just trade.”

His belt designs are simple, intertribal motifs—mountains, rivers, teepees, and dragonflies. Spang gives careful attention to the materials he uses, from leather to metal to dye. “I use German silver,” he said. German silver is a durable, tarnish-resistant alloy that contains no actual silver. He also takes great care when dyeing the leather. “I put three coats of varnish on them, so they won’t fade.” They will eventually fade, he added, “but not for a long time.”

Like many Native artists, Spang’s work thrives in a specialty market. “I have to be in Indian Country,” he said. “I have gone to the rodeos, but they just don’t work for me.” He plans to return for the Black Hills Powwow in October 2026. He offers custom sizing and takes orders.

(Contact Marnie Cook at cookm8715@gmail.com)

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