Our communities are in mourning with the rest of the world over the death of Virgil Abloh, the artistic director at Louis Vuitton and founder of the Italian luxury fashion label Off-White.
The menswear designer died on Sunday (November 28) after a private, two-year battle with a rare form of cancer known as cardiac angiosarcoma.
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, and numerous dear friends and colleagues,” a post on his official Instagram page reads.
Abloh made history when he became Louis Vuitton’s first Black artistic director in the history of the company. Many of his designs were worn by several celebrities, including Michael B. Jordan, Timothée Chalamet, and the late Chadwick Boseman.
Abloh was named as one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2018. According to Louis Vuitton, an already planned fashion show in Miami will move forward to present his Spring-Summer 2022 collection on November 30.
J Balvin, Rapper
“Rest in Peace Má g!! You changed the world of creativity, art, design and inspiration for an entire generation. Thank you for your legacy.”
Venus X, DJ
“I am so grateful for all the seeds we planted. We talked about all the ways I could put my ideas into the world, and you were ready to get behind them all. The music, the fashion, the books, the TV…you are one of few people who afforded me room and resources to believe in myself and my visions. Thank you for friendship and purpose. I have so much to complete now to honor all those calls and texts. I wish we had more time.”
Angelo Baque, Streetwear Designer
“Thank you for teaching me humility and compassion and showing me how to apply that in the streetwear space. I wish I knew that the last time I saw you and we sat next to one another at dinner in September it was going to be our last conversation. I had so much more to say. Thank you for creating opportunities for all of us. Thank you for being a mentor and a friend. I promise to keep that same loving energy going and honor your legacy brother.”
Julian Consuegra, Streetwear Designer
“Thank you for your time and love my friend.”
Don C, Streetwear Designer
“Will miss you Bro. Virgil Abloh Legacy will remain.”
Kids of Immigrants, Fashion Brand
“You paved the way, broke the walls down when they didn’t open the door. Thank you forever. You are a SUPERHERO.”