ACONAV is a leading fashion brand in Arizona gaining popularity with its unique combinations of Native American culture and modern style. The growing popularity is matched with continued success for CEO & Designer, Loren Aragon of ACONAV. The year is off to a good start for the brand with news of being named a recipient of the AZ Apparel Foundation’s Spring 2020 Designer in Residence Accelerator Scholarship.
The AAF Scholarship began in 2017 and has awarded 3 rising fashion entrepreneurs each year since. This year, AAF awarded six fashion brands from a total of more than 50 applicants. “It is an honor to be chosen among some great talents for this competitive scholarship award,” stated Loren Aragon, designer of ACONAV. “This opportunity comes at a great time for me as I look to expand upon the capabilities of my company,” said Aragon. ACONAV, a fashion brand is known for its use of exquisite Acoma Pueblo pottery patterns and infused cultural ideals was founded in Arizona. This award adds to a list of accomplishments that include being named Phoenix Fashion Week Couture Designer of the Year, a collaboration with Walt Disney World, and representation on the red carpet at the 73rd Tony Awards. The program will offer six months of office space/workspace, training, guidance from fashion experts and professionals, along with resources to accelerate the designer’s brand, all valued at over $18,500.
The first class of AAF Scholarship designers included renowned Diné (Navajo) designer Jared Yazzie of OXDX Designs. “I accepted the scholarship in their first cohort of designers,” explained Jared. “It provided me with a new work home that changed the trajectory of my business immensely. Of course, there is no other designer or fashion team that will make the most out of this opportunity than Loren and ACONAV. I’m looking forward to the new work this will bring.” added Yazzie. The AAF Scholarship will now have two Native fashion brands under their umbrella adding to the cultural diversity of the program. “It’s great knowing we are adding to the growing fashion community in Phoenix, Ariz. I am grateful to have another opportunity to represent my Acoma Pueblo culture in the greater fashion realm,” stated Aragon. “We’re beyond thrilled to have selected Loren Aragon to participate in Arizona Apparel Foundation’s Designer in Residence Program.” Said Sherri Barry, Co-Founder of the AZ Apparel Foundation.” Loren has the design talent, business acumen and growth opportunity we were looking for.” Added Barry. ACONAV and the five other participants will take residency at the Fashion And Business Resource Innovation Center, FABRIC starting January 31st. The AZ Apparel Foundation organization offers this opportunity every year to any qualifying fashion brand. For more information visit AZApparelFoundation.org.
