Full Breakdown
The Rise of La Watchparty: A New Era in Fashion Engagement
2/20/2026, 9:17:59 PM
Core Event: The Emergence of La Watchparty
Lyas, a French fashion content creator known for his incisive commentary, has transformed his initial exclusion from high-profile fashion events into a vibrant community initiative called La Watchparty. This movement began in June 2022 when he hosted a watch party for Jonathan Anderson's Dior menswear debut, attracting hundreds of attendees who resonated with his sentiment of being overlooked in the fashion industry.
Background & Context: From Exclusion to Inclusion
Lyas, whose real name is Elias Medini, grew up in Normandy and developed a passion for fashion after visiting Paris as a teenager. His early experiences, including sneaking into a Vetements show, fueled his desire to create a more inclusive space for fashion enthusiasts. The La Watchparty events have since evolved into significant gatherings, with the October 2022 Chanel show drawing around 2,000 fans to La Caserne in Paris, showcasing a stark contrast to the often exclusive nature of traditional fashion shows.
Key Figures: Lyas and His Impact
Lyas has become a prominent figure in the fashion landscape, amassing a following of 428,000 on Instagram and attracting attention from celebrities like Bad Bunny and Julia Fox. His charismatic persona and unique style, including a signature bright red lip color, have contributed to his growing influence. Fashion designer Willy Chavarria noted that Lyas represents a new voice in the industry, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and inclusivity.
Why It Matters: Community and Cultural Dialogue
La Watchparty has created a space for young fashion enthusiasts to connect and share their passion. Lyas emphasizes the need for community, stating, “There’s this need for community, and it’s a place where all these kids that love fashion can finally meet each other.” This initiative not only fosters a sense of belonging but also encourages creativity and new ideas among attendees.
Criticism & Opposition: Challenging Industry Norms
While Lyas has garnered significant support, he also critiques the fashion industry's conservative tendencies. He argues that many designers, particularly gay men designing for women, fail to liberate their subjects, stating, “It doesn’t feel suited for the life of a real 21st-century woman.” His perspective challenges the status quo and calls for a more progressive approach to fashion design.
Official Statements & Responses
Lyas reflects on the transformation of his initial bitterness into a positive outcome, saying, “In the end, it has created something so beautiful that I have forgotten all the hate.” This sentiment underscores the potential for community-driven initiatives to reshape the fashion narrative.
Verbatim Quotes
- “My watch parties were inspired by hate,” — Lyas, Fashion Content Creator
- “What makes him important is that he’s not just observing the industry, he’s interpreting it for a generation that wants inclusion and joy.” — Willy Chavarria, Fashion Designer
- “It’s going to spark so many ideas. I wish I had that growing up.” — Lyas, Fashion Content Creator
The La Watchparty phenomenon illustrates a significant shift in how fashion is experienced and shared, emphasizing community, inclusivity, and a challenge to traditional industry norms.
