Fashion designer Virgil Abloh dies: one last show and tributes from around the world
Virgil Abloh during the presentation of the summer 2020 collections in June 2019 in Paris (illustrative image).
Anne-Christine POUJOULAT AFP / Archivos
Text by: RFI Follow
2 min
Louis Vuitton presents today, Tuesday November 30, the latest collection of stylist Virgil Abloh, who died Sunday of cancer.
It is in Miami that the latest creations of the artistic director of the men's collections of the great fashion house will be presented.
Born in the United States, 41 years ago, Virgil Abloh was the son of Ghanaian immigrants, and the first recognized black designer in the world of haute couture, often criticized for his lack of diversity.
For two days, tributes have been paid to him in Africa, as in the whole world.
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“
A strong advocate for his community
, [Virgil Abloh]
was an eternal optimist who firmly believed that anything was possible,
” Micheal Burke, CEO of Louis Vuitton said in a statement. A graduate in architecture and civil engineering, Virgil Abloh entered the world of the arts in 2009, when he created the RSVP gallery in Chicago, a space halfway between an art gallery and a fashion and design store.
Spotted by rapper Kanye West, Virgil Abloh becomes his artistic director and finds himself propelled onto the front of the stage.
He joined Louis Vuitton in 2018. Faithful to his passion for hip hop, he launched Off-White, a
luxury
streetwear
brand.
Virgil Abloh has never forgotten his African origins.
In 2021, he made Kente, a traditional Ghanaian fabric, the star of the catwalks.
Ultimate creations
The show this Tuesday, November 30,
writes our correspondent in the United States,
Guillaume Naudin
, will present the ultimate creations of Virgil Abloh, for spring and summer 2022. The man was the first
black
designer
to reach the top of haute couture by becoming the director of Louis Vuitton men's collections.
This pioneering role, Virgil Abloh claimed and assumed.
This son of Ghanaian immigrants from Illinois has been hailed as far as Africa by other designers who have been inspired by him all over the continent.
“
You helped lead the way.
We will never forget you
, ”South African designer Thebe Magugu wrote on his Instagram account.
As for the Cameroonian fashion designer Imane Ayissi, he deplores "
a huge loss for world fashion
" continues AFP.
►Also read
: Fashion: symbol of diversity, Louis Vuitton designer Virgil Abloh is dead
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