BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
No Comments
At the 2024 CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Awards, Willy Chavarria’s label took home the award for American Menswear Designer of the Year for the second year running, marking another milestone in the designer’s dynamic career.
This prestigious back-to-back recognition is well-earned for Chavarria, whose work has resonated
deeply within both fashion and broader cultural dialogues over recent years.
Willy Chavarria, known for his queer, Mexican-American heritage and working-class roots, has built a brand that doesn’t shy away from critical social issues. Through his collections, he frequently addresses topics like immigration, racial justice, and gender inequality.
His recent designs have featured nods to significant social movements, such as callbacks to the United Farm Workers movement and perspectives inspired by civil rights icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. By integrating these themes, Chavarria merges strong social messages with luxury appeal, a blend that has captured the attention of icons like Lewis Hamilton and Kendrick Lamar, who’ve worn his designs on the track and in the studio.
Despite the brand’s success, Chavarria remains grounded in his commitment to inclusivity, from casting street models from diverse backgrounds to ensuring his team reflects a similar ethos.
His collections maintain authenticity and rawness, showcasing his sharp eye for design and cultural commentary that has anchored his brand for over a decade and looks set to endure.
The CFDA’s recognition highlights Chavarria’s lasting impact and is a well-deserved “fashion flower” for his contributions to the industry.
