Fashion Designer Virgil Abloh Has Died

It's a sad day for the fashion world, as they mourn the loss of legend Virgil Abloh. On Sunday morning, it was announced that the Off-White founder and Louis Vuitton menswear designer had passed away after privately battling cancer. He was 41 years old.

"We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend," a statement read on Instagram. "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."

The post continued, "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. He often said, 'Everything I do is for the 17-year-old version of myself,' believing deeply in the power of art to inspire future generations."

As one of the most influential designers of his generation, Abloh was known for bridging the gap between streetwear and luxury fashion. He joined Vuitton in March 2018 as artistic director, and LVMH Group, the brand's holding company, tweeted they are "devastated" over Abloh's passing. "We are all shocked by this terrible news. Virgil was not only a genius designer and a visionary, he was also a man with a beautiful soul and great wisdom," said Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH. "The LVMH family joins me in this moment of great sorrow and we are all thinking of his loved ones on the passing of their husband, father, brother, son and friend."

Abloh is survived by his wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, and his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh.