Virgil Abloh’s appointment as the artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear collection in 2018 was a milestone moment for the fashion industry, particularly for black creatives. Abloh was the first black artistic director in the luxury brand’s history, and his appointment marked a significant shift towards inclusivity and diversity within the fashion world.
The Early Days
Abloh began his career as an architect and transitioned to fashion design in 2009 when he launched his streetwear brand, Pyrex Vision. However, it was his founding of Off-White in 2013 that propelled him to international fame. The brand quickly gained a cult following among millennials and became known for its distinct aesthetic that blended streetwear and high fashion.
The Louis Vuitton Collection
Abloh’s debut collection for Louis Vuitton was shown in June 2018 during Paris Fashion Week. Titled “We are the World,” the collection drew inspiration from Michael Jackson and featured brightly colored pieces with intricate beading and embroidery.
The Color Palette
The color palette of Abloh’s Louis Vuitton collection was bright and bold, featuring shades of pink, yellow, blue, orange, and green. The use of these vibrant colors was a departure from Louis Vuitton’s typically muted color scheme.
- Yellow – A standout shade in the collection, yellow was used extensively across jackets, pants, shirts, and bags.
- Pink – Pink appeared on several pieces in the collection including suits and shirts.
- Blue – Blue was used on bags as well as clothing items such as blazers.
- Orange – Orange appeared on jackets and bags throughout the collection.
- Green – Green appeared on shorts as well as on bags.
The Accessories
The accessories in Abloh’s Louis Vuitton collection were just as bold and eye-catching as the clothing pieces. The collection featured oversized bags with the iconic Louis Vuitton monogram, as well as smaller bags that were worn across the body. The footwear in the collection included brightly colored sneakers and dress shoes.
The Reception
Abloh’s Louis Vuitton collection was met with widespread critical acclaim and was praised for its bold use of color and innovative designs. The collection was seen as a breath of fresh air for the brand, which had previously been criticized for being too traditional.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Virgil Abloh’s debut collection for Louis Vuitton was a triumph that showcased his unique vision and design sensibility. Abloh’s appointment at such a prestigious fashion house marked a significant moment for black creatives in the industry and highlighted the need for greater diversity and inclusivity within fashion.
In conclusion, Virgil Abloh’s designs for Louis Vuitton have brought about a new era of boldness and innovation within the luxury fashion industry. His debut collection was just the beginning of what is sure to be a long and successful partnership between Abloh and Louis Vuitton.