A Fashionista By Design

Alana Agcaoili
Owner, A Cubed Designs

Please tell us about your business. A Cubed Designs is a women’s and men’s everyday-wear clothing collection sold online. It initiated at the end of 2013 and is continuing to grow. Each product is designed, handmade and packaged with love by me in my studio. Most pieces are one-of-a-kind and limited quantity, so you won’t have to worry about wearing the same item as someone else. A Cubed Designs style is influenced by the places I have lived — the casual lifestyle of Hawaii with an added flair of Las Vegas city life. Each piece is specially designed for you to dress up or down. A Cubed Designs’ main focus is on comfortable, versatile and reversible pieces so customers can get more bang for their buck.

How did you come up with the name? A Cubed Designs originated from my first, middle and last name, which all begin with the letter A (Alana Alohilani Agcaoili), as well as my family members’ names.

Why did you start this business? I’ve always had a dream of owning a business. I started it because, after working two years in retail, I realized I’d rather work for myself and do something I love rather than work just to pay the bills. Many people also inspired and convinced me to sell my products, which motivated me to start my business. I feel very blessed because my family has been very supportive and always encourage me to follow my dreams. This is my dream come true.

Why do you continue to do what you do? I continue to do what I do because it is something I have a big passion for. Sewing, crafting and designing is a stress reliever for me. Taking an idea from my head, putting it on paper and then seeing it come to life is one of the best feelings.

Where are you from and what high school and college did you attend? I was born and raised on Kauai. I attended Kapaa High School and graduated in 2010. For college, I attended The Art Institute of Las Vegas in Nevada for three years. I graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science degree in fashion and retail management.

When and how did you first become involved with fashion? I enjoyed playing dress-up as a child with my sister, friends and dolls, browsed through fashion magazines, made arts and crafts with my mom, and made shopping a hobby. Being 4-foot-11 and petite, I always had trouble finding clothes that fit me comfortably, so I altered my outfits. It was then I realized I have a creative side.

What makes you get up every day and go to work? I don’t think of my business as work because I enjoy and love what I do and consider it a fun hobby.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your business? Being able to create a line of clothing and see people wear it all over the U.S. and even in Australia.

What’s the most challenging aspect of your business? Not having any helping hands because I maintain social media, answer emails, invent ideas, design, cut fabric, sew and ship my products out in a timely manner.

What are some of your plans for the future of your business? I plan and hope to open up a storefront on Kauai in the future.

Do you offer custom orders? Yes. You can create your own bikini set, or request a certain print/pattern or material for clothing. Blankets, quilts, photo pillows, curtains, doggie wear, etc., also are available.

acubeddesigns.com
info@acubeddesigns.com

cocomidweek@gmail.com