Virgil Abloh was more than just a fashion designer. He was a creative visionary, a cultural facilitator, an inspirational mentor, and a global influencer. His sudden death on November 28, 2021 at the age of 41 shocked and saddened the world. But his legacy will live on through his groundbreaking works, innovative collaborations, and passionate message.
Who was Virgil Abloh? He was born on September 30, 1980, in Rockford, Illinois, the son of Ghanaian immigrants. He studied civil engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology. During his studies, he discovered his love for fashion and art and began to get involved with the streetwear scene. He met Kanye West, with whom he formed a close friendship and a long-term collaboration.
Abloh launched his own brand Off-White in 2013, which quickly became one of the most sought-after labels in the world. Off-White combined high fashion with streetwear, art with pop culture, luxury with irony. Abloh played with logos, quotes, graphics and materials to create clothing that was both provocative and poetic. He collaborated with brands such as Nike, Ikea, Evian, Rimowa and Moncler, creating iconic products that reflected his varied interests and talents.
Abloh also became the first black designer to be named artistic director of menswear at Louis Vuitton, one of the most prestigious fashion houses in the world. He brought his own vision and energy to the brand, creating collections that combined tradition with innovation. He celebrated diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry and nurtured young talent from diverse backgrounds. He also used his platform to advocate for social justice and sustainability.
Abloh was not limited to fashion. He was also a successful furniture designer, DJ, artist and curator. He designed furniture for Ikea and Vitra that showed his architectural influences. He put on music at international festivals and events under the name Flat White. .
Abloh was a superstar in the fashion industry, but also a person with a big heart. He was known for his kindness, generosity, humility and humor. He was a loving husband and father of two children. He was a mentor and role model to many young people whom he encouraged to follow their dreams. He was a fighter against cancer, which he fought secretly since 2019.
Virgil Abloh changed the world with his art, his fashion and his voice. He showed us that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and work hard. He has taught us that fashion is more than just clothes – it is a form of expression, dialogue and change. He inspired us to write our own story and create our own future.