This was totally unexpected! Like many we had no idea what was in store for 2020, but we didn’t image this. The global health crisis has affected many lives and has taken its toll on the economy. In these uncertain times we have felt the need to adapt to the world around us.

As more and more businesses were becoming affected by the shutdown of states and cities, we had to make decisions on what we could do to maintain ours. We discovered that facial masks were in high demand. There was hesitation at first to jump in on the action as it was uncertain what exactly was needed in a protective face mask. Upon doing some research we sought the features that made the best masks. In early April we launched a handful of designs, quickly noticing how much of a demand they were. After some readjustment in our processes and day to day operations we moved into mask making mode in an almost overnight fashion.

Along with our ideas of creating unity through fashion we stood behind the ideas of working as one to defeat the viral pandemic. It’s great to see how our designs have created some unity. We encourage this and continue to promote the practice of social distancing as laid out by the CDC and WHO.

The Tularosa Print modeled by Veronica Lane

The thought seemed far from fashionable, however our prints made our designs truly one of a kind. We launched our mask campaign under #ProtectiveStyling: Protect Others By Protecting Yourself, as a way to promote the mask wearing as a stylish/fashionable accessory. We are amazed with how people adapted to the requirements of wearing a mask in public, observing many in making fashion statements with their protective equipment.

To date we have introduced four designs to the market, our Tularosa print and a monochrome print which have been equal favorites since launch, followed most recently with our Parrot and Lightning prints which are rising to the top as favorites as well!

The Monochrome print modeled by Nick Chavez

New Mask Designs Modeled by Anistacia Aragon & Deja Brown

Mask making has consumed our efforts to continue our business, and to continue to do business with small businesses in our community. The need for PPE continues and we are grateful to those who have supported us which in turn allows us to support communities in much greater need. The Navajo Nation has been one of the hardest hit Native American population. Thanks to connections with community leaders we’ve been able to channel a number of our masks to organizations delivering to those requesting protective equipment.

Masks ready for delivery to communities in need

All our masks are 100% cotton as recommended by health authorities. Each is a double layer of cotton with a pocket that allows for further protection with filters. Our masks measure 8” X 7” when fully open to provide optimized coverage and comfort. We offer the option to 18” ties or elastic ear bands. Although the masks can provide some protection we do encourage the use of a filter rated N95/P95 to maximize your protection. You’ll find that we do supply an alternative with every mask.

We will continue with mask production for as long as needed. To those who have supported us, “Thank You” from all of us at ACONAV. We look forward to better days ahead and bringing more fashion to you when we get through this. Our best to everyone out there… Stay Safe, Stay Healthy!

Protective Styling: Adapting to a Crisis Through Fashion