It’s been 1 year since the tragic passing of Virgil Abloh. Rather than posting a single tribute image, we wanted to shine light on how he’s influenced fashion and the underground overall. Here’s a look at what Virgil has done in the industry and the legacy he’s left.
HE REPRESENTED BLACK CULTURE
Virgil was born in Ghana and was the first black head of menswear in LV's history. Through his collection, projects and philanthropy, Virgil was able to showcase their work. Virgil once said, "I grew up feeling that design wasn't for me, because I didn't see anyone like me in design."
PHILANTHROPY
Virgil launched multiple projects that looked to improve the lives of people in need. These included capsule collections with American red cross and British Lung Foundation. He also raised funds to help beat a rare form of cancer and launched many more fundraisers and collections to aid people struggling with their health.
HE MADE THE YOUTH BELIEVE THEY CAN DO IT ALL
Virgil saw himself as a "maker" and it seemed like he did almost everything under the sun. Apart from being a fashion designer, he designed furniture, a car with Mercedes, a plane for Drake, directed music videos for artists such as Lil Uzi Vert and A$AP Rocky, held an art exhibition, and the list could still go on.
HE SHOWED SUPPORT TO EVERYONE
Virgil was that guy who you would see with everyone beyond just fashion. His linkup with Clint and several other music artists is just an example of that. He also provided multiple scholarship programs, mentorship programs and fundraisers to empower young, and upcoming creatives. He also created a database of black talent for LVMH along with a diversity panel to advocate for more representation across the company.
HIS DESIGNS
Virgil's 3% philosophy went on to work wonders as he had the streetwear world in his hands after collaborating with Nike to create a collection reenvisioning some of their most popular sneakers, dubbed "the ten". His screenprint designs helped lower their barrier to entry allowing young and hungry dreamers to start their own brands in hopes to build empires of their own. Both Pyrex Vision and Off-White, inspired the youth as it simplified what a streetwear brand can be.
HE REDEFINED HIGH FASHION
Luxury fashion has always been something identified by class, price points and exclusivity. Virgil broke those constructs and bridged the gap between luxury fashion and streetwear. With his brand Off-White and various collaborations, the industry began to see more pieces emerge that can be categorised as "Street- lux" through the lens of Virgil's work and a range of other brands. Luxury fashion is now defined on a personal level where it's more about a consumers perception and state of mind. Simply put, a 17 year olds idea of luxury is different to a 45 year old's idea of luxury.
An inspiration to many.
Long Live Virgil Abloh ❤️🕊