AMM Student Wins Scholarship

An apparel merchandising and management student was selected to receive a $1,000 scholarship from the California Fashion Foundation.

Nathan Ball, a graduating senior whose emphasis is in production, was required to submit a short essay and a brief PowerPoint presentation of his designs. At the time, he only had two completed garments that represented the scholarship contest’s theme of creative usage of textiles and trims.

He quickly designed and sewed a third garment to submit with his scholarship application.

“It is a significant boost of confidence receiving the recognition from my professors and the California Fashion Association, because for a period of time I believed that my business mind was strong than my capabilities as a designer,” Ball said. “This proves to myself that I have a gift as a designer and should continue down this path of trusting my instincts and pushing myself to be the best designer I can be.”

Ball started his own brand, UNSHOOK, in March 2019. UNSHOOK focuses on “designing garments that embrace life’s imperfections, encouraging others to remain strong through adversity and find beauty in their storms.” He designs, produces, markets, and sells the pieces himself.

Ball will graduate this spring and plans to continue building UNSHOOK. However, he hasn’t ruled out working as a designer, marketer, or production manager for another company that aligns with his values.

The California Fashion Foundation is the fundraising arm of the nonprofit California Fashion Association, which has represented the apparel and textile industry since 1995.