A Uniform for the Ones Who Earned Their Place
We’ve long admired Willy Chavarria for his unfabricatable, REAL, AUTHENTIC swag. It’s so clear that his inspirations come not from fashion insiders but from his connection to the real world around him, the world that raised him: his heritage, his community. The newest adidas x Willy Chavarria SS26 collection channels that exactly right: “This is about the beautiful tension between where we come from and where we’re destined to go,” he says. “A uniform for anyone who had to earn their place in the world.” And now, gets to stay there.
Chavarria is known (and loved) for his distinct interpretation of men’s fashion, mixing race, politics, and sexuality into apparel that’s almost regal in its proportions. In his world, it’s not all that radical: he’s just existing! Long before it was fashionable to say so, he cast only models of colour, and used the runway as his protest march. He transformed Chicano culture into an inclusive, queer, and importantly: nice-looking way, inviting people to the fashion table who have traditionally stayed invisible, uninvited.
Channeling Mexican-American memory, the beauty of a street corner at 3 p.m., and the neighbourhoods that raised him to be who he is today, the collaboration keeps the three stripes, of course, but adds a powerful charge that doesn’t wash out. His oversized proportions, rich material mixes, and intentional detailing aren’t limited to his own brand – the powerful silhouettes that take up the space he deserves are also exactly what you’ll find in this collaboration.
The Chavarria Chicano Sweatshirt features embroidered “CHICANO” lettering and a puff-printed eagle emblem on the chest, finished with a woven Trefoil and Mexican flag appliqué on the back. We especially like the asymmetrical pleated skirt set with a puff sleeve zip-up vest: double adidas logo and a Willy Chavarria rose, and then the Jabbar Low: four colourways, each one balancing Chicano cool with Adidas’ athletic DNA. Our favourite is the leopard + gold insignia colourway.
Chavarria’s mission has always been singular: uplift the overlooked, the undercounted, the kids who weren’t supposed to be on the guest list, and the campaign makes the point in full volume. Shot in a Boys and Girls Club in Mexico City, the imagery—made by an all-Latino cast and crew—comes through loud, proud, and close to the bone. No notes!
