The collaboration draws from 1980s Mexico City and the emotional intensity of classic television storytelling.
A Collection Rooted in Culture and Nostalgia
Willy Chavarria’s latest collaboration with Zara brings a deeply personal narrative to life, inspired by the dramatic world of Mexican telenovelas and 1980s television. Drawing from childhood memories and cultural references, the New York based designer builds a universe shaped by emotion, glamour and storytelling.
The concept imagines a larger than life Mexico City setting filled with complex characters and heightened drama. This cinematic vision becomes the foundation for the collection, blending nostalgia with contemporary fashion.
Fashion as Storytelling
Titled VATISIMO, the campaign reflects themes of beauty, humor and intensity, echoing the tone of classic telenovelas. The name itself carries cultural meaning, rooted in community, friendship and shared identity.
Chavarria approaches the collection by designing for imagined characters, allowing each piece to feel like part of a larger narrative. His signature style is evident throughout, combining bold tailoring with streetwear influences to create looks that feel both expressive and grounded.
Menswear includes exaggerated silhouettes and structured tailoring alongside reworked everyday staples like hoodies, polos and denim. Womenswear introduces softer elements through lace, sculpted forms and bow details, while unisex pieces blur traditional boundaries.
A Message of Identity and Representation
More than just a fashion collaboration, the project serves as a statement on identity and representation. Chavarria centers Latino culture, aiming to reflect its richness and emotional depth through design.
The collection emphasizes pride, belonging and self worth, encouraging individuals to recognize the value of their stories and heritage. Through this lens, fashion becomes a medium for visibility and cultural expression.
Willy Chavarria x Zara is set to release on March 26 through Zara, marking a collaboration that merges storytelling, community and style into one cohesive vision.
