Louis Vuitton’s lead designer Virgil Abloh bid adieu to millions of fans and thousands of well-wishers as he breathed his last, succumbing to cancer. His creative genius and life sadly cut short touched many a life with abundant love and laughter.
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend,” Abloh’s PR manager posted on Instagram.
Another major fashion empire, Gucci, praised Abloh as an “immense inspiration” with a Twitter statement extending its “most heartfelt condolences” to the designer’s friends and family. Abloh is survived by his wife, Shannon Abloh, his sister, his parents and his two children.
Final days
In a post on Insta on November 19 — nine days before his death — the fashion pioneer and founder of Off-White shared a glimpse into his creative process, showcasing the inspiration behind the design of a new Braun wall stereo.
“Good design has a critical role to play in addressing the problems of today and driving behavioral change, so we can have a positive impact in shaping our future and the future of this planet,” Abloh wrote.
“My whole premise is to lift up the next generation of designers, innovators, and creative minds from non-typical trajectories,” he continued. Just two days ago, Abloh unveiled the launch of a new line of jeans he designed with Tremaine Emory, called ABLOH TEARS. The jeans, which retail for $1,145, are embroidered with white floral ‘Peace’ signs and black candelabras.
Tributes
Chennai’s youth activist and political ideologue, Aishwarya Kalpathi, said “The world needs innovators and creators who go beyond just their product. He guided thought and artistic expression. Virgil was an inspiration to many creative people around the world. His designs are always here in our wardrobes to remember him by, but this loss is a significant one to the youth of this nation. He was so original and explored beyond the realm of what’s merely possible.”
Actor Shruti Hassan’s beau Santanu Hazarika who is known to acknowledge and aid the design minds in and around his geography, paying tribute, said, “One of the greatest figures in today’s design world.”
‘Privately battled cancer for years’
In a post on Instagram, Abloh’s family said: “For over two years, Virgil valiantly battled a rare, aggressive form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma. He chose to endure his battle privately since his diagnosis in 2019, undergoing numerous challenging treatments, all while helming several significant institutions that span fashion, art, and culture.
Through it all, his work ethic, infinite curiosity, and optimism never wavered. Virgil was driven by his dedication to his craft and to his mission to open doors for others and create pathways for greater equality in art and design...
“We thank you all for your love and support, and we ask for privacy as we grieve and celebrate Virgil’s life.”
Celebs express condolences
Hailey Baldwin Bieber penned a tribute for Abloh with a picture featuring her wedding dress which Abloh had designed. “Virgil completely changed the way I looked at street style and fashion, the way he looked at things inspired me deeply. I will never be able to fully express how grateful I am to have known him and worked with him, from walking on his runways to having him design my wedding dress and all the other amazing moments in between, I felt he was always rooting for me,” Hailey wrote.
Kendall Jenner wrote that knowing Virgil was a ‘privilege’ and added that he had a wonderful way of making people feel special. “His genuine smile would warm your heart. to battle his illness privately perfectly explains the type of man he was, he never wanted anyone to worry about him. we have lost a dear friend. no words do my feelings justice at this very moment, but what i can say is that i am absolutely heartbroken.”
Filmmaker Karan Johan wrote, “This is just heartbreaking! RIP! What an immensely talented fashion force! He will be sorely missed.”
Gigi Hadid took to her Instagram page and wrote that she was heartbroken by the “loss of my dear friend.” She talked about his kindness and energetic generosity in the heartfelt post and wrote, “His kindness and energetic generosity left a lasting impression on every life he touched— he made everyone feel seen and special. He will be deeply missed, cherished, and celebrated by."
Donatella Versace called Abloh “a creator for the history books”. She wrote, “Virgil, I am lost for words. The world has lost a fashion superstar. An innovator. A creator for the history books. I am thinking of all your loved ones on this tragic day.”
