American designer Willy Chavarría captivated Paris Fashion Week with a groundbreaking debut that merged vibrant creativity with powerful political commentary.
Hosted at the iconic American Cathedral in Paris, Chavarría’s show was a daring celebration of Chicano culture, LGBTQ+ pride, and defiance against conservative ideologies, all woven into a tapestry of eclectic fashion.
The American Cathedral, a venue steeped in history and tradition, provided the perfect backdrop for Chavarría’s bold message. The show featured excerpts from an LGBTQ+ bishop’s speech that had previously drawn ire from former President Donald Trump, as well as clips from Emilia Pérez, a film nominated for 13 Academy Awards. The venue’s gothic arches and stained glass windows bore witness to an unapologetically avant-garde collection, steeped in cultural heritage and political defiance.
Willy Chavarria’s fashion linked to activism
Drawing from his Mexican and Irish roots, Chavarría’s designs offered a masterclass in blending tradition with modernity. The collection featured oversized plaid shirts, wide-leg denim perfect for cowboy boots, and bold cowboy hats that paid homage to the narco-mythology of the U.S.-Mexico border. These were juxtaposed with impeccably tailored suits in blood red and classic black, some adorned with a single striking red rose on the lapel.
Women’s fashion mirrored the same narrative of power and defiance: fitted black corsets paired with pencil skirts and matching hats created an image of mourning infused with resilience—an ensemble fit for a gangster’s funeral.
The collection also embraced streetwear elements, with oversized bomber jackets, bold neon accents, and baggy Adidas boxer-style tracksuits, blending high fashion with urban swagger.
Willy Chavarría’s designs have consistently championed Latino and Chicano culture, and his Paris debut was no exception. With an unapologetic focus on his heritage, the collection served as a powerful rebuttal to rising fascism, anti-immigrant sentiment, and attacks on LGBTQ+ rights. Accessories like rosaries with pearl embellishments and floral brooches symbolized faith and resilience, while ’70s-style collars and tucked-in shirts subtly subverted ecclesiastical norms.
A Message of Hope
As the models walked the runway, the audience bore witness to a performance that was equal parts fashion and activism. Willy Chavarría’s work challenged the status quo and offered a message of hope for marginalized communities. In an unexpected turn, the dean of the American Cathedral took the stage to congratulate Chavarría, praising his ability to convey love, solidarity, and light amidst the darkness of intolerance.
Willy Chavarría’s debut in Paris was more than a fashion show—it was a cultural statement and a call to action. With his fearless approach to design and storytelling, he proved that fashion can be a powerful medium for social change.
