William Chavarria, a famous fashion designer also known as Willy, from Fresno, California, made his tenth appearance at Paris Fashion Week, showcasing his designs from his brand Willy Chavarria. Chavarria’s inspiration comes from the Chicano style, which he beautifully elevated to the next level by shifting the clothing into runway looks.
His runway show was located in an Episcopalian Church in Par, and he debuted his show Tarantula. The name Tarantula was inspired by a song called Tarantula, which is about a creature who is misunderstood and portrayed as evil, Chavarria correlated this song to how America treats those who are Immigrants. “It’s a song about a soft and beautiful creature doing its own thing on the planet, minding its business, and we villainize it. We make it a monster, but it is quite gentle. Until it is messed with, then it bites” (Chavarria, Forbes). He showcased various ideas and statements using his clothing such as LGBTQ+ pride and representation of his Hispanic Heritage. Chavarria chose to host his show in a church as many who resonate with LGBTQ+ identities experienced trauma in religious communities. By intertwining the Church and the LGBTQ+ community, he unites the two and creates a statement that everyone belongs in the Church.
Chavarria and his models strutted the runway with eccentric looks featuring a collection of dark red, black, and brown clothing. The models walked down the runway with unisex clothing that was inspired by Chicano apparel and accessorized outfits with religious pieces such as rosaries and crosses. His collection of clothing ranged from different decades of Chicano clothing as he incorporated looks inspired by the 40’s, 90’s, and more. Becky G and more famous guest models walked the runway in support of Chavarria’s message.
At the end of his show, Chavarria stole the show with a simple yet impactful outfit as he wore a black shirt that said “How we love is who we are” with black slacks and boots. His shirt created a meaningful message that our choice of love creates our identity. William Chavarria brought a powerful message to Paris that envisioned not only love but the importance of Chicano fashion in past and present fashion.
Works Cited
Carter, Ashleigh. “At Willy Chavarria’s Paris Debut, LGBTQ+ Rights Were Front & Center.” Teen Vogue, 25 January 2025, https://www.teenvogue.com/story/willy-chavarria-paris-fashion-week-2025. Accessed 12 February 2025.
Robinson, Roxanne. “Willy Chavarria’s Paris Debut Brings His Chicano Aesthetic To France.” Forbes, 27 January 2025, https://www.forbes.com/sites/roxannerobinson/2025/01/27/willy-chavarrias-paris-debut-brings-his-chicano-aesthetic-to-france/. Accessed 12 February 2025.
