Willy Chavarria made his highly anticipated Paris Fashion Week debut on Friday at The American Cathedral, showcasing his Fall 2025 collection, “Tarantula”. The Mexican-American designer, a two-time CFDA Menswear Designer of the Year, used the iconic setting to present a collection deeply rooted in his personal history—celebrating his biracial identity, queerness, and working-class upbringing in California’s San Joaquin Valley.
“Tarantula” was a sensory journey, blending romance and boldness with rose-adorned blazers, flower-embellished Western hats, and sensual suiting. Mid-show, reggaeton star J Balvin performed an intimate solo in a bow-tied tux, while his partner, Valentina Ferrer, watched from backstage.
The collection, rich in Italian fabrics like silk, velvet, and bouclé, featured a striking color palette of golds, vivid blues, crimson, and plum. Chavarria’s runway, known for its diverse cast, included models of all sizes and genders, emphasising his commitment to inclusivity.
One standout moment came backstage, where a model who works as a pizza delivery boy in New York shared how he was discovered via a viral video. “It’s incredible to be part of such a big movement,” he said, reflecting the powerful personal stories Chavarria’s shows amplify.
Take a closer look at Willy Chavarria’s FW25 collection in the gallery above.