I’m Calvin Klein’s designer – a ‘sloppy’ trend & ‘big yawn’ I can’t stand, plus the more ‘elevated’ way to do it instead
A DESIGNER at one of the world’s biggest fashion labels has revealed the “sloppy” streetwear trend he wishes would go.
According to Willy Chavarria, Calvin Klein’s Senior Vice President of Design, the standard sweatpants and sneakers combo is spent — classy shoe alternatives are desirable.
Chavarria spoke to The U.S. Sun at the 2023 AAFA American Image Awards hosted by The American Apparel & Footwear Association, where he was honored as Designer of the Year.
The California-born creative is the head of his namesake fashion brand and the SVP of Calvin Klein menswear.
Before joining the American label in 2021, he worked at Ralph Lauren, Yeezy, and American Eagle Outfitters.
After accepting his award, Chavarria reflected on exhausted trends he’s ready for the industry to move away from in the coming years.
“I think sweatpants and sneakers are so bad right now,” Chavarria proclaimed.
“We’re done with that. We’re ready for more elevated fashion.”
As an artist who focuses his collections on self-dignity, wearing sweats and running shoes together appears careless to him.
The 56-year-old designer believes this tired look is an example of increased indecency in everyday wear by Americans.
And it doesn’t matter if either of the two items are luxury pieces — the combo is a no-go.
He admitted: “Actually, I think fancy sneakers are a big yawn.”
To Chavarria, labels creating chic and contemporary running shoes is senseless unless they’re an original brand focused on those products.
But if even a “cool” sneaker doesn’t pair well with lounge pants, what does?
“On a female, I would say a gorgeous strappy heel,” Chavarria admitted.
Ornamental footwear can make slouchy bottoms appear more lush and delicate, giving the outfit the same relaxed look but a bit more elegant.
Mixing masculine and feminine styles into one outfit allows for modish comfort.
Chavarria believes “a silk chiffon blouse with a pussy bow” and slicked-back hair tastefully compliments a pair of sweatpants.
For men: “A beautiful tuxedo loafer and he pulls his sweatpants up above his belly button and he wears it with a tank top.”
Ultimately, if you’re not looking to go on a run, you don’t want to give other people the impression you are.
Switching your sneakers for heeled sandals will put you on the right style track.