In 2018, Virgil Abloh made history when he was appointed the artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear. This was a significant moment for fashion as Virgil became the first African-American to hold this position at the prestigious French fashion house. His appointment marked a turning point in the industry, as it signaled a shift towards diversity and inclusivity.
Who is Virgil Abloh?
Virgil Abloh is an American designer, DJ, and entrepreneur. He is best known for his streetwear brand Off-White which he founded in 2012.
Before venturing into fashion, Virgil worked as an architect and interned at Fendi alongside Kanye West. His background in architecture is evident in his designs, which are often characterized by clean lines and geometric shapes.
What did Virgil Abloh do to Louis Vuitton?
When Virgil took over Louis Vuitton’s menswear division, he brought with him a fresh perspective that combined streetwear aesthetics with luxury fashion. He introduced a new vision for the brand that appealed to a younger generation of consumers who wanted to see more diversity and inclusivity in high-end fashion.
One of the most significant changes that Virgil made at Louis Vuitton was his focus on collaboration. He worked with artists such as Takashi Murakami and Jeff Koons on collections that incorporated their unique styles into Louis Vuitton’s iconic designs.
Another notable aspect of Virgil’s work at Louis Vuitton is his use of bold graphics and typography. He introduced new logos and emblems that were inspired by street art culture, creating a visual language that resonated with younger audiences.
Virgil also introduced more relaxed Silhouettes into Louis Vuitton’s collections, such as oversized hoodies and baggy trousers. This departure from traditional tailoring was seen as a nod to the growing trend of athleisure and streetwear in fashion.
What impact did Virgil Abloh have on Louis Vuitton?
Virgil’s appointment at Louis Vuitton marked a significant moment in fashion history. His unique perspective and focus on diversity and collaboration helped to usher in a new era of luxury fashion that was more inclusive and accessible.
Under Virgil’s leadership, Louis Vuitton’s menswear division became one of the most talked-about brands in the industry. His collections were praised for their innovative designs, bold graphics, and use of color.
Virgil’s impact on Louis Vuitton was not limited to the brand’s menswear division. He also introduced new concepts for the brand’s womenswear collections, such as his “flower cloud” design that appeared on dresses, bags, and shoes.
Overall, Virgil Abloh’s tenure at Louis Vuitton was a game-changer for the fashion industry. His innovative designs and focus on diversity helped to break down barriers and create a more inclusive fashion landscape.