Seeking to reach the growing online Hispanic population (currently estimated at 19.5 million in the U.S.), virtual world developer and operator Makena Technologies has announced a collaboration with Mexican clothing brand NaCo USA to offer virtual clothes in There.com, as well as new opportunities for purchasing real-world merchandise.

The word "naco," in Mexican Spanish, is typically used as slang to describe tackiness or low-class manners, but the NaCo clothing brand was created in 1998 to embrace and celebrate the term. The company now boasts offices in Mexico City. Miami, and Los Angeles, selling its products in boutiques, department stores, and specialty retailers.

Now partnered with Makena, NaCo will have a specialty in-world catalog in There.com offering nine pieces of unique merchandise for players to buy and wear virtually. There.com users will also be able to purchase real-world merchandise as well.

Said NaCo founder and chief creative officer Edoardo Chavarin: "Because of There.com's demographic mix, the platform is a perfect fit for us to engage and connect with our target audience. We believe There.com's Hispanic audience will understand and appreciate our brand. Our customers spend a considerable amount of time on social networking sites and we believe that There.com's virtual world is the next evolution for interacting with our customers wherever they may be."

Makena Technologies CEO Michael Wilson added: "The Hispanic population in There.com is growing and comprises a very active segment of our community. We've seen an increase in the areas of our world that showcase this cultural influence and there are currently over 15 clubs in There.com that cater specifically to Hispanic audiences. With our members focused on self-expression and socialization, the fun, offbeat messages on NaCo's clothing offer our audience another unique way to express themselves."