This designer will do anything for his village

Editor’s Note

This designer will do anything for his – CNN Style is an official media partner of Paris Fashion Week. Explore all coverage from the event here. Fashion has long been a stage for individual expression, but for Willy Chavarria, it’s also a platform for collective identity. The Mexican American designer’s career defies conventional metrics of success in the industry, where fame, sales, and brand partnerships often take center stage. Yet Chavarria’s influence extends beyond the runway, rooted in a deep commitment to fostering a sense of community and belonging. His latest collection, presented during the Men’s Fashion Week, reflects this philosophy, blending personal narrative with cultural resonance in ways that have captivated both fashion insiders and broader audiences.

The Heart of the Matter

While Chavarria’s name is synonymous with high-profile collaborations—like those with Adidas, Zara, and Ugg—he credits his enduring success to something more enduring: a loyal network of supporters who view him not just as a creator, but as a member of their extended family. This group, affectionately termed “the Willy Boys” by his team, includes recurring models such as Shaid Anaya, a construction worker whose journey from labor to the catwalk has become a symbol of perseverance. The designer’s ability to weave personal stories into his work has created a unique bond with his audience, one that transcends mere admiration for his aesthetic.

Chavarria’s approach to menswear is deeply personal. Growing up in Huron, California, a town that recently honored him with a special day, he has always seen fashion as a way to honor his roots. His designs often draw from Chicano culture, reinterpreting traditional styles with a modern twist. This year’s Spring-Summer 2027 collection, titled “Comunión,” encapsulates his belief in unity and shared experience. The word, which translates to “communion” in English, is a nod to both secular and spiritual gatherings, emphasizing how his work celebrates the collective rather than individual glory.

From Runway to Reality

During Paris Fashion Week, Chavarria’s team operated in a makeshift studio in the 6th arrondissement, a space where creativity and collaboration collided. The atmosphere was electric, with every corner buzzing with activity. Models, VIP guests, and even a surprise guest like US rapper SAINt JHN contributed to the process, embodying the designer’s ethos of inclusivity. One moment in particular highlighted this: as the show approached, SAINt JHN questioned the choice of cream-colored chino shorts in his look. Without hesitation, Chavarria offered his own navy cotton cut-offs, demonstrating a generosity that defines his brand.

Chavarria’s relationship with his models is more than professional—it’s familial. Shaid Anaya, who balances his role as a construction worker with his appearances on the runway, is not just a face for his collections but a partner in storytelling. Similarly, Romeo Beckham, who returned to the show after a previous collaboration, and fellow designer Bella Freud, who walked the runway as a friend, underscore the personal connections that fuel his creative process. These individuals are not merely figures in his designs; they are integral to the narrative of his brand.

Aesthetic and Emotion

Chavarria’s designs are a visual language of connection, often mirroring the emotional weight of his community. The Harvard Review of Latin America recently dedicated an essay to the impact of his work, with UC Santa Barbara professor Aída Hurtado describing her profound reaction to his shows. “The first time I saw one of his presentations online, I cried for a day,” she wrote, capturing the essence of how his creations stir both nostalgia and inspiration. This emotional depth is no accident—it’s a deliberate strategy that infuses each piece with meaning beyond its surface.

At the core of Chavarria’s vision is the idea that fashion should evoke something more than style. “I really spend a lot of time thinking about how people feel,” he explained in his studio, now adorned with the latest season’s pieces. His designs aim to reflect the global zeitgeist, offering garments that not only align with contemporary trends but also affirm the values of unity and joy. The Spring-Summer 2027 collection, for instance, features a playful mix of textures and silhouettes, from recycled plastic raffia to floral appliqués that shimmer like stickers under the lights. This blend of whimsy and substance has earned him accolades, including the CFDA’s Menswear Designer of the Year title for two consecutive years.

The Ritual of Creation

Even before the show began, the sense of ritual was palpable. The runway at Espace Niemeyer, the modernist HQ of the French Communist Party, opened with a guided meditation, inviting guests to release tension and embrace the moment. This attention to detail reflects Chavarria’s broader philosophy: that fashion is not just about what you wear, but how you feel while wearing it. The cooling parade of outfits that followed was a masterclass in balancing boldness with comfort, featuring items like pink leather pencil skirts and turquoise silky hot pants that challenged traditional gender norms.

As a menswear designer, Chavarria’s journey has been both deliberate and serendipitous. He first joined Ralph Lauren in 1999, where he initially explored womenswear before shifting focus to men’s fashion. This transition, he explains, was not a sudden pivot but a gradual discovery of his passion. “I fell into designing for men,” he said, “but it felt like the right place to channel my ideas about connection and community.” His designs, often described as a reclamation of cultural heritage, have become a bridge between past and present, individual and collective.

A Legacy in the Making

Chavarria’s work is a testament to the power of community in the fashion world. By surrounding himself with people who share his vision, he ensures that each collection is a reflection of shared values. The “Willy Boys,” as they are called, are not just models—they are advocates for his brand, embodying the spirit of togetherness he aims to celebrate. This dynamic has allowed his designs to permeate wider culture, from street style to high fashion, proving that the lines between the two are increasingly blurred.

As the Paris Fashion Week finale approached, the energy in the studio was infectious. Chavarria’s team moved with purpose, ensuring every detail was perfect. The designer, now back in his shorts, spoke about the balance between creativity and practicality. “It’s about making something that feels both familiar and new,” he said, a sentiment that echoes throughout his work. Whether through the vibrant colors of his latest collection or the emotional resonance of his storytelling, Chavarria continues to redefine what it means to be a fashion designer in the 21st century. His brand is not just clothing—it’s a movement, one that invites everyone to feel seen, valued, and connected.