Virgil Abloh (founder of Off-White streetwear brand and menswear director at Louis Vuitton), has died from cancer at the age of 41. The sad news was announced by LVMH, Louis Vuitton’s parent company on Sunday 28 November. Abloh, who had been fighting cancer privately for many years, produced collections and fashion shows for Louis Vuitton menswear.
“We are all stunned by this horrible news. Virgil was a brilliant designer and visionary. He was also a man of great wisdom and beauty.” The LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault stated that “the LVMH family is with me in this time of great sorrow. We are all thinking about his loved ones following the death of their father, brother, or friend.”
Abloh became the first Black designer to be appointed as Louis Vuitton’s artistic director for menswear in March 2018. Abloh’s Off White brand was acquired by LVMH in a majority stake. Abloh and LVMH had also announced an expansion of their partnership to launch new brands or partner with existing brands in a range of other sectors than fashion.
Abloh stated that he was taking a rest per doctor’s orders in September 2019. However, he never mentioned his illness. The fashion industry was shocked to learn of his death.
Abloh is a fashion designer who has won numerous awards. He leaves behind an amazing legacy. He was honored with numerous prizes throughout his career, including the British Fashion Awards “Urban Luxe”, award from the British Fashion Awards and the International Designer of the Year award at the GQ Men of the Year Awards 2017. 2015 saw Virgil Abloh, Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh(tm), among the finalists for the LVMH Prize.
