The excitement surrounding the Super Bowl in the San Francisco Bay Area took a stylish turn on February 10, 2024, as a fashion show featuring designs by Thom Browne captivated attendees at the Legion of Honor museum. The event attracted a glamorous crowd of fashion influencers, athletes, and notable figures, including outgoing GQ editor Will Welch, who recently announced his transition to a new role with musician and Louis Vuitton creative director Pharrell Williams.
As the city buzzed with Super Bowl festivities, the atmosphere at the museum was decidedly different, evoking the elegance of a prep school gathering rather than the high-energy football celebrations taking place just miles away in Santa Clara. The striking backdrop of the Pacific Ocean added to the allure of the evening, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a world of high fashion and artistic expression.
Upon arrival, guests walked the grey carpet, where influencers and fashion enthusiasts showcased Browne’s signature styles, characterized by pleated skirts, tailored suits, and bold grosgrain stripes. Welch was among the first to make an entrance, drawing attention and curiosity from those eager to engage with him. His presence at the event was particularly poignant, as he navigated the crowd while searching for his nephew, who was attending his first fashion show.
As the sun set and temperatures dropped, the ambiance shifted from the excitement of football season to a more intimate social gathering. One attendee humorously referenced a famous quote attributed to Mark Twain regarding San Francisco’s unpredictable climate, highlighting the unique contrasts of the evening.
The night included a range of personalities, from Queen Latifah, who has a longstanding relationship with Browne, to actress Francois Arnaud, who engaged with fans and exchanged pleasantries. The fashion show itself was a highly anticipated event, with many attendees eager to witness the latest creations from Browne.
As the show commenced, the atmosphere transformed, with Teyana Taylor making a brief appearance as she settled into her seat among the front row alongside her children and Queen Latifah. The theatrical presentation kept the audience on the edge of their seats, culminating in the debut of Browne’s collaboration with sneaker brand Asics. The limited edition Gel-Kayano 14 sneakers, set to release on March 2, 2026, drew particular excitement from sneaker enthusiasts in attendance.
After the presentation, the afterparty allowed guests to relax and celebrate the show’s success. Browne mingled with models, some still adorned with metallic hair accessories from the runway. The lively atmosphere was complemented by a DJ who attempted to engage attendees with a mix of classic hits, including Queen Latifah’s past songs.
As the night progressed, conversations flowed, and models gathered around influencer Wisdom Kaye, who had opted for a more casual approach, eschewing the grey carpet for the festivities. The event served not only as a showcase of fashion but also as an opportunity for community and connection among attendees.
The evening concluded with a sense of shared joy among participants, as guests transitioned from the museum to a nearby food truck, where the allure of late-night snacks provided a fitting end to a night of glamour and high spirits. The blending of fashion, celebrity, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Super Bowl weekend in San Francisco created a memorable experience for all involved, highlighting the city’s unique ability to celebrate diverse cultural moments in tandem.
