Virgil Abloh, fashion designer and streetwear pioneer, dies at 41
The Louis Vuitton artistic director and Off-White founder succumbs to cancer
Acclaimed designer and innovator Virgil Abloh died Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021, after a private battle with cancer. He was 41.
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend,” announced his family on the designer’s Instagram account. “He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, and numerous dear friends and colleagues.”
“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. He often said, ‘Everything I do for the 17-year-old version of myself,’ believing deeply in the power of art to inspire future generations.”
LVMH also posted a statement from Bernard Arnault, chairman and chief executive of LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton SE, saying, “We are all shocked after this terrible news. Virgil was not only a genius designer, a visionary, he was also a man with a beautiful soul and great wisdom. The LVMH family joins me in this moment of great sorrow, and we are all thinking of his loved ones after the passing of their husband, their father, their brother, or their friend.”
