How does a brand obtain real success, and what metrics should be used to confirm it? While there may not be a perfect answer in the world of fashion, supporters can still celebrate the brands that are making real impact through their creativity.
Enter the Chicano-inspired, activism-forward Willy Chavarria. The designer behind his namesake line shares with the CFDA that a key marker of the brand’s ongoing accomplishment has been its commitment to social stances as well as challenging traditional notions of masculinity. “Ultimately, it has reinforced our commitment to inclusivity and authenticity, which continues to be a driving force behind our success,” Chavarria said.
That community-building was central to his first show in 2017, which took place at the dawn of a charged political era. The collection, seductively entitled “Cruising,” was presented at the infamous gay bar The Eagle, serving as an indirect affirmation of the community behind the space, as well as containing allusions to Chavarria’s upbringing in Mexico.
“We felt that we had to use our platform not to ignore the ugliness in the world, but to define our own strength within it. We grew an audience that connected, not only with the fashion itself, but with our voice,” Chavarria shared about the presentation.
While the world of Willy Chavarria has grown, the brand has collected a community of industry insiders and fans who resonate with the themes in each collection. Even in the most recent season, the selection for FW24 continued to blend the designer’s cultural narratives with items like a houndstooth turtleneck, deliciously oversized cable knit sweaters and ties, and a draped veil attached to a baseball cap. His newest extension is the Willy Chavarria x The Patron Saints Capsule with Tribeca’s designer boutique Patron of the New.
As for what Chavarria would share with other designers looking to build their cultural legacy, he said: “Seek inspiration beyond the world of fashion and apply it to what you create. Think about how you might be able to make people see and feel differently than they do. Do what hasn’t yet been done.”
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