Willy Chavarria had just six weeks to organize his most ambitious show to date. In January 2026, the designer bypassed the traditional runway format, opting instead for a musical-inspired presentation for his fall 2026 menswear collection in Paris. Held at the Dojo de Paris, the event transformed the space into a Manhattan crosswalk, where 2,000 guests witnessed a performance centered on the themes of faith, hope, and wisdom.
The showcase featured over 100 looks, ranging from sharp tailoring and elaborate gowns to athletic wear from his Adidas collaboration and the utilitarian basics of his “Big Willy” line. The production was elevated by a lineup of Latin musical powerhouses, including Mon Laferte, Lunay, Mahmood, Feid, Latin Mafia, and the boy band Santos Bravos.
A Visionary Approach to Fashion
Reflecting on the frantic pace of the production from his Brooklyn studio, Chavarria admits the scale of the project was daunting. “I don’t even know how I did it,” he says. His shows have become a vital antidote to the creative stagnation often found in high fashion. Since his 2025 debut in Paris, where he famously featured a low-rider in an homage to Chicano culture, Chavarria has established himself as a master of spectacle.
Chavarria’s creative journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing in Huron, California. Influenced by his family’s love for traditional Mexican music, his palate expanded during his time in San Francisco, where he immersed himself in the house music and club scenes of the late 1980s. “Everything changed for me when I discovered house—that has been my go-to choice since. My entire creative journey has been guided by music,” he explains.
My entire creative journey has been guided by music.
Building a Creative Collective
As an openly gay Latino designer, Chavarria is acutely aware of his platform. He is intentional about his collaborations, ensuring that the artists he works with—such as Kendrick Lamar—align with his values regarding human rights and immigration reform. “The connection of values speaks volumes because everyone knows what I stand for,” he notes.
Looking ahead, Chavarria aims to evolve his brand into a comprehensive creative collective that encompasses music, film, and philanthropy. He envisions hosting benefit concerts and continuing to challenge the industry status quo. “I want to blow the big brands out of the water and make a statement,” he says. “I want to go big. I want to be the Mexican Ralph Lauren.”
