Willy Chavarria’s Parisian Debut: A Bold New Chapter in Menswear

Willy Chavarria has long been a force in contemporary fashion, known for his innovative take on menswear, commitment to inclusivity, and ability to merge streetwear aesthetics with sophisticated tailoring. With his much-anticipated Autumn/Winter 2025 (AW25) collection debuting in Paris, he has officially cemented his place on one of fashion’s most prestigious stages.

This milestone not only marks Chavarria’s entry into Paris Fashion Week but also represents a new creative evolution, reflecting his unique blend of heritage, social commentary, and forward-thinking design.

A Transatlantic Journey: From New York to Paris

For years, Chavarria’s designs have been closely associated with New York’s fashion and cultural landscape. His previous collections have drawn inspiration from Latino culture, workwear, and the city’s diverse communities, blending these elements into designs that are both bold and emotionally resonant.

Relocating to Paris and joining the official Paris Fashion Week schedule marks a transformative shift in his career. The move not only expands his global reach but also allows him to engage with a broader audience and draw from the rich history of European tailoring.

Despite this transition, his roots remain deeply embedded in his work. His Parisian atelier reflects his Californian upbringing, with personal touches—tattoos, sunglasses, crucifixes, and other symbolic elements—integrated into both his workspace and collections.

AW25 Collection: A Reaffirmation of Signature Design Codes

The AW25 collection is an unapologetic reaffirmation of Chavarria’s distinctive aesthetic. Known for his ability to blend masculinity with tenderness, the collection presents strong silhouettes, rich textures, and an exploration of identity and power.

A Stunning Venue and Star-Studded Cast

Set in the magnificent American Church in Paris, the show’s atmosphere was charged with intensity and emotion. The collection was brought to life by a diverse group of models and notable figures, including:

• Indya Moore – The groundbreaking actor and activist, known for their influence in both fashion and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

• Kai-Isaiah Jamal – A poet and model who continues to redefine representation in the industry.

• Honey Dijon – The globally renowned DJ, whose presence underscored the crossover between fashion and music culture.

• Alva Claire & Paloma Elsesser – Models who continue to champion body diversity and inclusivity on the runway.

Adding to the electrifying energy of the evening, J Balvin delivered a live performance, reinforcing the intersection of Latinx culture and high fashion—a theme that has been central to Chavarria’s work.

Key Looks and Textural Play

The AW25 collection was a testament to Chavarria’s mastery of tailoring and fabric experimentation. While his designs are often characterized by voluminous silhouettes and exaggerated proportions, this season showcased a refined balance between structure and fluidity.

Red Velvet Suit

• A standout look, the deep red velvet suit embodied luxury with a rebellious edge.

• The rich texture and bold silhouette created a powerful yet sensual statement, emphasizing his signature duality of strength and vulnerability.

Versatile Cashmere Outerwear

• A tailored cashmere jacket demonstrated the elegance of minimalist design, highlighting his ability to create pieces that are simultaneously functional and striking.

• The subtle detailing made it a versatile wardrobe staple, reinforcing Chavarria’s focus on wearable luxury.

Sustainable Suiting with Recycled Sea Plastics

• Sustainability played a major role in this collection, with a suit crafted from recycled sea plastics—an innovative approach to ethical fashion.

• By integrating eco-conscious materials into high-end tailoring, Chavarria continued his commitment to responsible design practices.

These pieces exemplified his ability to take traditional menswear elements and transform them into something entirely new and meaningful.

The Importance of Community in Chavarria’s Work

A defining characteristic of Willy Chavarria’s approach to fashion is his commitment to uplifting marginalized voices and fostering a sense of community.

At the heart of his design process is a tight-knit group of friends, collaborators, and models, affectionately referred to as the “Willy Boys.” These individuals are not merely cast for their looks but rather for their embodiment of Chavarria’s ethos—strength, self-expression, and individuality.

Casting as a Form of Storytelling

• Rather than selecting models based solely on industry standards, Chavarria seeks individuals who bring personal narratives to the runway.

• This approach ensures that his collections resonate on a deeper level, making each piece more than just a garment, but rather a symbol of empowerment.

A Celebration of Identity and Representation

• His designs draw heavily from Latino culture, queer identity, and working-class aesthetics, creating a bold visual language that challenges conventional fashion norms.

• By incorporating elements like tattoos, religious iconography, and streetwear influences, his collections reflect the authenticity of lived experiences.

This emphasis on community and inclusivity ensures that his work remains emotionally powerful and socially relevant.

Cultural Symbols and Personal Touches

Throughout his work, symbolism plays a crucial role in shaping the visual narrative. His Parisian studio is filled with objects and motifs that reflect his background and personal identity.

Religious Imagery and Subversion

• Rosaries and crucifixes frequently appear in his designs, sometimes with playful reinterpretations—such as tiny spoons on rosary chains, humorously referred to as “for your cereal.”

• This mix of reverence and irreverence is a hallmark of Chavarria’s aesthetic, blending cultural tradition with contemporary humor.

The Influence of Californian Roots

• West Coast streetwear culture is a major influence, seen in oversized silhouettes, bold accessories, and relaxed tailoring.

• His ability to merge Californian casualness with European sophistication makes his designs distinct and globally appealing.

By embedding these personal elements into his collections, Chavarria continues to craft a narrative that is uniquely his own.

A Defining Moment in Fashion’s Future

With his first official Paris Fashion Week show, Willy Chavarria has entered a new phase in his career, proving that his vision extends beyond regional fashion scenes into the global stage.

What This Means for the Industry

A Shift Towards Authentic Representation – Chavarria’s commitment to inclusive casting and personal storytelling challenges fashion’s outdated beauty standards.

The Power of Cultural Expression – His work emphasizes that fashion is not just about clothing—it is about identity, history, and social commentary.

Sustainability as a Core Value – By using recycled materials, Chavarria is part of a growing movement toward responsible, conscious design.

His debut in Paris signals not just a personal milestone but a transformational moment in menswear, where social responsibility and artistic expression take center stage.

Willy Chavarria’s Enduring Impression

Willy Chavarria’s Parisian debut is more than just a fashion show—it is a statement. It reaffirms his commitment to community, inclusivity, and pushing creative boundaries.

With his distinct design language, powerful storytelling, and fearless approach to fashion, Chavarria continues to reshape the industry’s perception of masculinity and identity.

As his career progresses, one thing remains certain: his impact on fashion is only just beginning.