Louis Vuitton Appoints Virgil Abloh as Menswear Artistic Director

“The ultimate collaboration”

When Louis Vuitton announced that Kim Jones would be stepping down from his role as menswear artistic director back in January, the rumour mill started circulating. Endless designers were tipped off to be replacing the British designer – and today the luxury fashion house confirmed rumours that Off-White designer Virgil Abloh will be stepping in.

The 37-year-old designer was first known as Kanye West’s creative director, working on a number of projects with the rapper. The two went on to take internships at Fendi and then Abloh launched his now-collectible streetwear brand Pyrex – which became an instant viral-sensation.

In 2013, his profile rose further as he founded his own label, Off-White, that has over the years gained an almost cult-like following. Since then, he’s been known for his branded collaborations—working with some of the world’s most recognized labels, notably Jimmy Choo, Nike, and a long-awaited capsule collection with furniture giant Ikea.

His appointment at the high-end fashion house marks a pivotal point in the history of luxury fashion. Aside from being one of few black designers to have ever held such a role, Abloh is known for his knack at shaking up traditional “rules” of luxury.

“This opportunity to think through what the next chapter of design and luxury will mean at a brand that represents the pinnacle of luxury was always a goal in my wildest dreams,” “I see this as the ultimate collaboration” the designer told Business of Fashion.

Abloh’s first show is set to take place at Paris Fashion Week in June—and we can’t wait to see his first collection.

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