Jesse James
Known for redefining streetwear and bringing the culture into high fashion, Virgil Abloh’s impact changed everything about fashion. Over the weekend, the director of Louis Vuitton and founder and CEO of Off-White™ passed away after a private multi-year battle with cancer. The renowned fashion designer shifted the landscape of streetwear and luxury fashion.
As founder and CEO of his luxury label Off-White™, he elevated streetwear to new heights. He was also the first Black fashion designer to lead Louis Vuitton’s menswear line. As a designer and creative director, Mr. Abloh fused the industries of contemporary culture and luxury fashion. His work centered on art history, youth culture, graphic design, music, and more.
On Sunday afternoon, statements were released from LVMH and Abloh’s personal Instagram account. The statement read: “He chose to endure his battle privately since his diagnosis in 2019, undergoing numerous challenging treatments, all while helming several significant institutions that span fashion, art, and culture.” The post went on to add, “Through it all, his work ethic, infinite curiosity, and optimism never wavered. Virgil was driven by his dedication to his craft and to his mission to open doors for others and create pathways for greater equality in art and design.”
Virgil is remembered through his wife Shannon and his children Lowe and Grey. RIP to a legend and a man that helped shape the culture while pushing us to be our best and do our best. There will never be another Virgil Abloh.
Photo via Evian
