Matthew M. Williams will debut a new namesake, independent clothing project in Paris during men’s fashion week later this month, WWD has learned.

The collection for men and women — reflecting the American designer’s exacting, product-based approach, and a focus on craft — will be sold at the Seiya Nakamura showroom in Paris from June 26 until July 1. Paris Fashion Week, showcasing spring 2026 collections, kicks off June 24 and wraps on June 29.

It is understood Williams is funding the new venture, and working with favorite suppliers from across his 20 years in the business, including a denim mill in Japan, an American jersey specialist, and a Spanish maker of handmade shoes.

The designer is probably best known for his three-year stint as the creative director of Givenchy, and as cofounder of 1017 Alyx 9SM. Established in 2015, that coed label is known for its industrial-tinged and utilitarian allure, and collaborations with the likes of Nike, Moncler and Audemars Piguet.

In late 2023, just as Williams was winding up his tenure at Givenchy, Hong Kong entrepreneur Adrian Cheng took a majority stake in 1017 Alyx 9SM. It last presented a collection to the press in June 2024.

Contacted by WWD, Williams confirmed his new clothing project, but declined further comment.

Born in Chicago and raised amid the vibrant skate culture in Pismo Beach, Calif., Williams is a self-taught designer. He started his career in fashion production, making a name for himself working as creative director for Lady Gaga.

Williams is widely seen as a driven, versatile fashion talent with a sharp vision, strong cultural and artistic connections, and formidable technical chops. Shunning seasonal themes or narratives, he designs according to garment archetypes with an intense focus on fabrication and finishing, prizing “soul” in garments and accessories.

His eponymous brand will be in good company at the Seiya Nakamura showroom, which will also showcase Craig Green, Taiga Takahashi, Arpa Studio, Amomento, Song for the Mute, Khoki and
Edward Cuming.