Visionary designer Virgil Abloh has died at 41

PurseBlog, along with the rest of the world, was saddened to learn of the passing of Virgil Abloh, artistic director of Louis Vuitton menswear and the founder of his own label, Off-White. Abloh, Louis Vuitton’s first Black artistic director, broke barriers in a lot more ways than one, swiftly becoming known for his out-of-the-box technique to fashion and boundless collaborations. He was, and will remain, one of the pioneers of the merging of streetwear and luxury fashion, completely changing not only what consumers wanted to wear, but how they checked out fashion as a whole.

The designer was battling a rare, aggressive form of cancer for the last two years, choosing to privately fight his battle considering that being diagnosed in 2019, a statement from his Instagram page read. All the while, the designer remained active, completing a slew of collections and various other projects.

Everything Abloh did, he did with curiosity, drive, and a work ethic that was unmatched, once stating, “everything I do is for the 17-year-old version of myself.” The designer believed deeply in the power of the arts to inspire and lead future generations, and the legacy he leaves behind will do just that. All the while, he paved the way for a a lot more inclusive fashion industry, a movement that lots of believe he spearheaded.

Abloh is survived by his loving wife, Shannon Abloh, two children, Lowe and Grey Abloh, a sister Edwina Abloh, parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, and dear friends. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Abloh’s family, friends, and those mourning his passing around the globe. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Louis Vuitton will celebrate and pay tribute to the life and legacy of Virgil Abloh with a presentation of his Spring/Summer 2022 collection in Miami on November 30th.

Virgil Abloh
September 30th, 1980 – November 28th, 2021