In a landmark moment at Paris Fashion Week, designer Willy Chavarria unveiled his Autumn/Winter 2025 collection titled “Tarantula” at the American Cathedral on the 24th January 2025, marking his debut in the City of Light. Renowned for his unique interpretation of American sportswear, Chavarria’s latest collection emphasized themes of diversity, human dignity, and equality. The choice of venue,a historic cathedral,added a profound resonance to the presentation, underscoring the collection’s message of inclusivity and social justice.
Chavarria’s casting for the show was a testament to his commitment to representation. Collaborating with casting director Brent Chua, he scoured various Parisian neighborhoods to find individuals who embodied his inclusive vision. The runway featured a diverse array of models, including recurring muses like Erik “Chachi” Martinez and prominent figures such as Paloma Elsesser and Lineisy Montero. This deliberate choice highlighted individuals often overlooked in traditional fashion shows, reinforcing Chavarria’s dedication to showcasing the beauty in everyday people.
© Luca Tombolini
The collection itself was a masterful blend of Chavarria’s signature oversized silhouettes and tailored pieces, reflecting his distinct take on American sportswear. Notable attendees included musicians Becky G, Ozuna, and J Balvin, whose presence amplified the show’s message of resistance against oppression, particularly concerning queer and trans individuals, women, and immigrants. Chavarria’s designs served as a powerful statement on the importance of collective voices in advocating for social change.
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© Luca Tombolini
In conjunction with his runway debut, Chavarria collaborated with Adidas Originals to celebrate the occasion. The partnership featured a unique pop-up activation and a limited-edition capsule collection. A vintage lowrider, a classic Chevy Impala, traversed the streets of Paris, stopping at secret locations to distribute exclusive merchandise. The capsule included heavyweight cotton apparel and footwear inspired by NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar‘s signature shoe, reimagined through Chavarria’s lens.
The lowrider made its final stop outside the show venue, showcasing the exclusive merchandise. Fans who missed the giveaways could access a hidden page on Adidas’ Confirmed app, where limited pieces were available for purchase, with pick-up at the Adidas Originals Paris flagship store. Chavarria also made a personal appearance at the store, engaging with fans and customers, further solidifying his connection with his audience.
© Luca Tombolini
Willy Chavarria’s Paris debut was more than just a fashion show; it was a compelling narrative that challenged societal norms and celebrated the power of diversity. By integrating fashion with activism, Chavarria continues to redefine the industry, using his platform to advocate for inclusivity and social justice. His Autumn/Winter 2025 collection stands as a testament to the transformative power of fashion in effecting meaningful change.