Fresh Air Virgil Abloh's Unconventional Path To Luxury Fashion
20 snips
Jun 26, 2025 
In a captivating conversation, Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Robin Givhan reflects on the groundbreaking legacy of designer Virgil Abloh, the first Black American artistic director of menswear at Louis Vuitton. She shares insights from her book, exploring how Abloh blended streetwear with luxury fashion, redefining cultural norms in the industry. Givhan discusses his unique upbringing, collaborations, and the challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs, while also touching on fashion's role in contemporary political discourse. A fascinating dive into creativity and accessibility in fashion!
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Brand Meaning Over Aesthetics
- Virgil Abloh redefined fashion greatness, focusing more on the meaning a brand conveys than just garment design.
- His brand Off-White was about community and shared identity, unlike traditional status-focused fashion houses.
Kanye and Virgil's Creative Bond
- Virgil met Kanye West while finishing his master's, eventually becoming Kanye's creative director.
- Their collaboration included music visuals and fashion, forming a vibrant creative community.
Cultural Identity Shapes Confidence
- Abloh's identity as son of Ghanaian immigrants shaped his awareness of cultural hierarchies.
- This background influenced his confidence navigating spaces where he was a minority within minorities.
