Willy Chavarria, the Mexican-American designer known for blending sharp tailoring with streetwear sensibilities, has joined forces with Ugg for a new collection that puts Latino culture front and center. Titled “Ugg and Kisses,” the line features five unisex footwear silhouettes and a range of apparel, all wrapped in a campaign that draws from the nostalgia of 90s television.
The campaign brings together a powerhouse cast: Eva Longoria, Becky G, Danny Trejo, and Ivan Cornejo. Each star embodies a different family role, playing with the dynamics of a classic sitcom household. It’s a playful nod to the era many of us grew up watching, but with a distinctly Chicano twist that feels fresh and personal.
For Chavarria, this project is deeply rooted in memory. Growing up in California’s Central Valley, he was surrounded by surf culture and the everyday style of his community. That influence is evident in the collection’s design language—biker-inspired boots, relaxed clogs, and slippers that balance ruggedness with the plush comfort Ugg is known for.
Five silhouettes that blend heritage and modern comfort
The footwear lineup includes the Guard Boots, Biker Boots, and Relaxed Boots, alongside the Otzo clog and Hotel Chavarria slipper. Each piece uses full-grain leather and custom chrome hardware, with soles designed to transition from indoor lounging to city streets. The collection also features graphic tees and custom socks, all carrying insignias that speak to Chavarria’s design ethos.
“I wanted to honor the communities that have inspired me,” Chavarria said during a preview at his New York studio. “This is about love, family, and the resilience that defines our culture.”
The campaign’s casting is intentional. Longoria, a longtime advocate for Latino representation in Hollywood, brings her signature warmth to the role of the matriarch. Becky G, who has consistently celebrated her Mexican roots in her music, adds a youthful energy. Trejo, with his iconic tough-guy persona, plays the lovable uncle, while Cornejo, a rising star in regional Mexican music, represents the next generation.
This isn’t just a fashion drop; it’s a cultural statement. Chavarria has long used his platform to amplify Latino voices, and this collaboration continues that mission. The collection’s price range—from $30 for socks to $800 for the boots—makes it accessible to a wide audience, which aligns with Chavarria’s belief that fashion should be inclusive.
The release date is set for September 10, available in select stores and online. For fans of Latino representation in pop culture, this collaboration is a must-see. It also follows a wave of recent moments where Latino artists and designers are taking center stage, from benefit concerts uniting stars to TikTok hits that cross borders.
Chavarria’s ability to merge high fashion with cultural authenticity is what sets him apart. He doesn’t just design clothes; he tells stories. And with “Ugg and Kisses,” he’s inviting us all to sit at the family table.
The campaign has already generated buzz on social media, with fans praising the casting and the nostalgic vibe. It’s a reminder that fashion can be both comfortable and meaningful, and that our heritage is something to wear with pride.
