Virgil Abloh just became the first designer of color to hold such a high and important role in the world’s leading luxury brand. His own brand, Off White, is one of the most talked about new brands in the world of fashion. This makes his appointment as the artistic director at Louis Vuitton quite deserving. This is true in the opinions of many.
Edward Enninful, editor-in-chief at British Vogue, praised Abloh’s ability to join street culture with high fashion. He also says that he is one of the very few designers in the world to do this successfully.
Dylan Jones, editor-in-chief of GQ, is very glad that this happened since, in his view, Abloh’s appointment can prove to be quite transformative in the world of fashion.
Besides them and many other people in the world of fashion, LVMH is certainly also glad that this happened. Louis Vuitton’s parent company is probably hoping that Abloh will bring his very significant fan base to their brand. Off White brand has produced several sellout items and made Abloh very successful recently.
Abloh was born in Rockford, Illinois, USA and studied engineering and architecture. He switched to the world of fashion after meeting Kanye West. He started designing his merchandise and during this time he met Michael Burke, the chairman and CEO of Louis Vuitton. This was all back in 2006. Abloh’s brand began later in 2013, but it quickly won plenty of praises and accolades.
Abloh will remain working Off WHite. His brand makes both women’s and men’s collections, but at Louis Vuitton, Abloh will be in charge of menswear only.
Virgil Ablo’s appointment should also be considered important for another significant reason. This now means that there is a turn in the world of fashion and that brands will start taking streetwear more seriously.
