California-raised designer Willy Chavarria has become an undeniable force in fashion, celebrated for his signature oversized silhouettes fused with Latino cultural influences. His ascendance culminated this year with winning the prestigious CFDA Menswear Designer of the Year award.
Beyond the accolades, Chavarria is trailblazing a path for emerging Latino designers. His FW24 collection, shown at New York Fashion Week, spotlighted his Mexican-American heritage through set design and styling choices. Catholic imagery and Latin music set the tone for refined takes on his greatest hits—think oversized blazers, wide-leg trousers, and his signature tracksuit elevated in luxe fabrics.
As Chavarria continues to thrive commercially while staying true to his artistic point of view, he demonstrates that creativity, culture, and business can coexist. His success proves there is an eager market and audience for the kind of authentic storytelling that gives voice to overlooked communities.
The ascent of designers like Chavarria prompts an important question: why has the fashion industry excluded these perspectives for so long?
As our Head Designer Herbert can attest, finding recognition as a Mexican creative often requires overcoming systemic barriers across an industry favoring white voices. Seeing designers like Willy Chavarria shatter glass ceilings indicates that the tide is turning. Still, there is work left to do.
Chavarria is clearing a path so the next generation of Latino talent can walk through doors once closed to them. His unapologetic celebration of his culture shows emerging designers, like many on our own team, that creatively fusing heritage with fashion can earn acclaim. Simply put, Willy Chavarria proves your voice and vision deserve to be seen and heard. His growing influence will empower more unique perspectives waiting for their turn in fashion's spotlight.
- Johnny T.