Virgil Abloh, founder of the high-end streetwear brand Off-White, will now be a part of the power house that is Louis Vuitton. His authentic and creative mindset brought him into the position of artistic director of men’s wear. The anticipation from his global audience to see his creations is sky-high.
Abloh lacks a traditional fashion background and education — he learned basics from his mother, a seamstress. He met the famous rapper, songwriter, producer and fashion designer Kanye West in 2003 and became West’s creative director, growing his name and education in the fashion industry.
He founded the label Off-White in 2013 and opened his first location and flagship store in Hong Kong. Shortly after, in 2015, the brand was a finalist for the LVMH Young Designers Prize. Off-White has 3.1 million followers on Instagram and a growing fanbase around the world.
Abloh is a king of cross-branded collaborations. He is focused not only on his fashion brand, but also on the collections he has designed with names including Moncler, Jimmy Choo, Nike, Timberland, HERON PRESTON and Champion. Fortunately, Abloh has many more collaborations in the works.
Louis Vuitton recently entered a more urban world with its collaboration with the streetwear brand Supreme. The decision to put Abloh on its team will certainly increase the popularity in men’s wear. Abloh said he is “elated” to be in his new position at the world’s largest luxury group. He later rejoiced that this opportunity “was always a goal in [his] wildest dreams.”
Making history, Abloh will become Louis Vuitton’s first African-American artistic director. He will be replacing Kim Jones, who left the company in January. Jones recently announced his new position as men’s wear designer at Christian Dior, taking over for Kris van Assche.
Abloh will not abandon his company Off-White.
“It is for the 17-year-old version of me, whereas Vuitton is for the 37-year-old I am today,” Abloh said.
Abloh’s first presentation of creativity as the men’s wear artistic director will take place during Paris Men’s Fashion Week in June.
