A captivating fashion event took place on February 10, 2024, at San Francisco’s Legion of Honor, showcasing designs by renowned designer Thom Browne. This gathering attracted a diverse crowd of fashion enthusiasts, influencers, and notable figures, including outgoing GQ editor Will Welch. The atmosphere contrasted sharply with the nearby Super Bowl festivities, as the city buzzed with excitement for the championship game set to occur in Santa Clara.
The fashion show unfolded in the elegant setting of the Legion of Honor, which is positioned just blocks from the Pacific Ocean. While San Francisco was alive with the sounds of Super Bowl celebrations, the event at the museum provided an oasis of style reminiscent of an elite prep school gathering. Attendees donned Browne’s signature designs, featuring pleated skirts and tailored suits, which set a high-fashion tone for the evening.
Will Welch, who recently announced his departure from GQ for a new role with musician and Louis Vuitton creative director Pharrell Williams, was one of the first to arrive. As he navigated the sea of admirers eager to engage with him, he kept an eye out for his nephew, who was attending his first fashion show. The event soon filled with camera-ready influencers and athletes, creating a vibrant atmosphere that stood in stark contrast to the football frenzy surrounding the Super Bowl.
As the evening progressed, the temperatures dropped, prompting one attendee to reference a well-known quote attributed to Mark Twain about San Francisco’s chilly summer weather. The crowd included familiar faces like Queen Latifah, who has been styled by Browne for years. When asked about her favorite part of San Francisco, she humorously responded with “Oakland,” eliciting laughter from those nearby.
Inside the museum, guests mingled amidst stunning art installations, including a prominent display of Rodin pieces. As the night unfolded, conversations flowed effortlessly, with attendees like actor Francois Arnaud engaging with fans while discussing local life. The ambience shifted dramatically as the show prepared to begin, with the runway set against an artistic backdrop.
The fashion presentation kicked off with a dramatic flair, featuring Teyana Taylor briefly taking her place at the edge of the runway. As the lights illuminated the space, the audience’s anticipation grew. Following the show, gold medal-winning gymnast Sunisa Lee expressed her admiration for Browne’s creations, stating, “I loved it, I want it,” showcasing the excitement surrounding the designs.
The collection included a collaboration with sneaker brand Asics, which debuted during the final moments of the runway show. While details remain under wraps, the limited-edition sneakers are set to be released on March 2, 2026, generating buzz among sneaker enthusiasts and fashion fans alike.
After the show, the atmosphere relaxed at the afterparty, where Browne and his models continued to celebrate the successful event. A DJ played a mix of hits, attempting to engage Queen Latifah with a nostalgic playlist that included her own music. Among the attendees was model and influencer Wisdom Kaye, who posed for photos and brought an additional layer of glam to the festivities.
As the night wore on, the gathering of models and influencers coalesced around Kaye, while others created an impromptu dance floor. The energy was infectious, with classic hits prompting spontaneous celebrations. As the evening drew to a close, attendees began to filter out, with some stopping for food from a nearby food truck.
The fashion show at the Legion of Honor served as a vibrant counterpoint to the Super Bowl excitement in San Francisco. It highlighted the intersection of fashion, culture, and celebrity, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to attend. With its unique blend of style and artistry, the event marked a memorable occasion in the heart of the city.
