Willy Chavarria isn’t just famous for his high/low NY-style elevated streetwear or being a favorite designer of Billie Eilish and Kendrick Lamar. Both he and his clothes offer tongue in cheek wit, making him beloved by his fans and shoppers.

His recent autumn collection launch, “Tarantula,” at Maxfield was presented as a bargain basement: “LUXURY FASHION PRODUCTS. BUY NOW, CRY LATER!” Presented in Maxfield’s all glass building, “Structure Nomades” by Jean Prouve’, it was set up like an outlet store – EVERYTHING MUST GO! -– with much higher prices.

“I wanted to take a luxe store like Maxfield and turn it into the utter L.A. retail bargain basement.” Meanwhile, Willy’s had a great A-lister year – without paying any celebs to wear his clothes. “We don’t pay anyone, we don’t gift anyone,” he admitted. “So if they wear my clothes, it’s because they really want to.” Also on hand – the Willy Wanna-Be’s – guys and girls in Chavarria downtown finery, funky hats, loads of neck chains, edgy eyewear – call it the Cult of Willy. Added to the retro atmosphere: a dj blasting Latin music, many many margaritas, and three vintage muscle cars, just for effect. Also on hand: hardcore Willy shoppers like stylist B. Akerlund and husband/director Jonas

Akurlund, checking out the merch. B. donned a black coat with a neck so high, she was headless from the back – getting a jump on Halloween? “No,” she said bluntly. “This is for everyday. For Halloween, I’ll be in Manchester, styling Duran Duran.” I’m jealous.