Loren Aragon facts for kids

This picture shows the "Horizons" exhibit. It features a dress by Loren Aragon in the front.

Loren Aragon is a talented fashion designer. He is from Acoma Pueblo, a Native American community. His designs are inspired by the beautiful pottery and culture of Acoma. Loren's brand, ACONAV, creates unique clothing. It is known for its cool, uneven designs and special fabrics. He uses materials like silk and leather. His clothes mix old cultural ideas with new, modern styles.

Learning and Growing

In 1998, Loren moved to Arizona. He went to Arizona State University. In 2004, he earned a degree in mechanical engineering. While working as an engineer in Phoenix, he taught himself fashion design. He learned by taking apart dresses to see how they were made. He worked as an engineer for 13 years. Then, he became a full-time fashion designer.

His Amazing Designs

This is an Acoma pottery water jar. It shows traditional Acoma designs.

Loren grew up watching his mother and aunt. They made traditional Acoma clothing. He first started making jewelry. Later, he studied old Pueblo designs. He did this at the School for Advanced Research in Santa Fe. After that, he decided to design clothes. His clothing often uses traditional Pueblo elements. These include red sashes and special dresses. These dresses are worn during important cultural events.

Loren's first big collection had 20 pieces. It was shown in December 2014. He looks up to designers like Virgil Ortiz and Alexander McQueen. Besides fashion shows, Loren's designs have been in art exhibits. You can see his work at places like the National Museum of the American Indian. His art has also been at the Poeh Museum and Epcot Center.

His Family

Loren's wife is named Valentina. She is Diné. Valentina is also his business partner. She helps manage ACONAV.

Awards and Recognition

Loren Aragon has received several honors:

• 2012, Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian
• 2017, Native American Artist Fellowship
• 2018, Couture Designer of the Year, Phoenix Fashion Week

Where His Work Is Kept

Loren Aragon's designs are part of permanent collections. You can find his work at the School for Advanced Research in Santa Fe. It is also at the Museum of Indian Arts + Culture.