When the news initially broke of Virgil Abloh’s passing, the V Team were in shock and disbelief. Abloh changed the entire fashion game and created a lasting impact on the industry. We paid tribute to the creative mastermind by reflecting on some of his most influential collections.
Off-White founder and Louis Vuitton artistic director Virgil Abloh passed away due to a “rare form of aggressive cancer.” Saddened by this news, we wanted to reminisce some of his most powerful work and show our true appreciation for the artist himself. Here are some of our picks at V Management.
This presentation took place just two days after Abloh’s passing. The show, held at the graffiti-covered Miami Marine Stadium during Art Basel Miami, acted as a fitting tribute to the designer in many ways. Attendants were shuttled to the pier via speedboats. Some of Abloh’s closest friends, including Kanye West, Pharrell and Kid Cudi attended the show.
The show concluded with a quote from Abloh, “there’s no limit. Life is so short that you can’t waste even a day subscribing to what someone thinks you can do versus what you can do,” followed by a fireworks display over the water and series of drone placements lighting up the night sky to spell out Abloh’s initials, create LV’s monogram and Damier prints, and flying paper planes.
Virgil Abloh collaborated with his friend NIGO® on the launch of the second LV² collection. They both share an interest and love for streetwear, with diverse cultural roots which they showcase via their work. Abloh praised NIGO by stating, “For me, there is no one like NIGO. He helped us understand how luxury can relate to a new generation.”
Ikea’s creative lead Henrik Most and Abloh presented their collaborate collection ‘MARKERAD.’ MAKERAD was a limited edition collection taking everyday figures with classic minimalistic designs and building on them with artistic references. The collection aimed to satisfy the practical needs of young people today, adding a sense of irony and injecting humour into the home. The final collection was a mix of 15 articles that are basic needs when creating a first home – a table, chair, daybed, cabinet and rugs.
For Off-White™‘s Fall 2021 Ready-to-Wear collection, Abloh presented the unisex collection dubbed “laboratory of fun.” It featured boxy forms and relaxed silhouettes accented by bold colour choices that helped reimagine staple styles. To finish off the showing, Abloh also invited M.I.A. to deliver a lively performance to close off the unveiling.
For Fall/Winter 2020, Off-White™ showcased slick knitwear and cut-out blazers, a thoughtful complement to the Spring/Summer 2020 “Meteor Shower” collection. It was dubbed “Tornado Warning,” and featured signature touches, including unmissable branding, slouchy suits and baggy denim.
These are just some of our favorite picks, however, we have an ongoing list of inspirations left by the designer and entrepreneur. Abloh made an impact that will stay in our hearts forever. V Management’s founder Samy Samandjeu commented on the passing of Abloh. “The brutality of the news quickly left place to a deep sadness. He impacted the industry in so many ways, and so many people looked up to him. He made so many positive changes in the industry, and defined a whole new generation, paving the way for new creativity and art. I want to believe that even his death is part of his legacy, the one of a kind thinker, a doer and a courageous soul.”
