Virgil Abloh died at the age of 41.
Virgil Abloh, creative director of Louis Vuitton and creator of Off-White, has died at the age of 41. This sad news was announced on his official Instagram on November 28.
"We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh. He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Ablow, his children Lowe and Gray Ablow, his sister Edwina Ablow, his parents Nee and Eunice Ablow, and many dear friends and colleagues.
"For more than two years, Virgil courageously fought a rare and aggressive form of cancer called cardiac angiosarcoma. Since his diagnosis in 2019, he has chosen to endure the battle personally, undergoing numerous difficult treatments while heading several important institutions spanning fashion, art, and culture.
"Through it all, his work ethic, boundless curiosity, and optimism never wavered. Virgil's driving force was his dedication to his craft and his mission to open doors for others and pave the way for greater equality in art and design. He often said, "Everything I do is for my 17-year-old self," and he believed deeply in the power of art to inspire future generations.
"Thank you all for your love and support and please respect our privacy as we mourn and celebrate Virgil's life."
Tributes soon poured in from Abloh's many friends within and outside the fashion industry.
"You broke the mold and made that seat hot seeing you in Qatar and being blessed to be with you.
Fellow designer Mark Jabobs said, "I am so sorry to read this. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones. Virgil, may you rest in peace."
Kendall Jenner dedicated a post on her Instagram to Abloh, writing, "If you had the privilege of knowing Virgil, you are one of the lucky ones. He was one of the kindest, most positive, humble, upbeat, light-filled people I've ever known.
Abloh specifically designed Haley Bieber's wedding dress, and the model honored him with a touching caption. 'Virgil completely changed my view of street style and fashion. 'Walking his runway, having him design my wedding dress, and all the other amazing moments in between, I always felt like he had my back.'
Gigi Hadid added, "His kindness and energetic generosity left a lasting impression on every life he touched. He will be deeply missed, cherished, and celebrated by me and all the people and industries who had the good fortune to know the true supernova behind this man."
Justin Bieber, Edward Enninful, Drake, Justin Timberlake, and many other celebrities have dedicated their words to Abloh's talent and personality. All agree that we have lost a brilliant star far too soon.
Comments