Fashion designer Virgil Abloh has sadly died at the age of 41, it has been announced.
The Off White CEO and Louis Vuitton artistic director had been privately battling cancer for a number of years, a statement from Lous Vuitton revealed.
The statement read: “LVMH, Louis Vuitton and Off White are devastated to announce the passing of Virgil Abloh, on Sunday, November 28th, of cancer, which he had been battling privately for several years.”
Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH, said: “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.
(Image: Getty Images)
“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.”
A statement posted on the designer’s own Instagram explained that Virgil had been battling cardiac angiosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
The full statement read: “We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend. 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.
(Image: Getty Images for Qatar Museums)
“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 is for the 17-year-old version of myself,’ believing deeply in the power of art to inspire future generations.
(Image: Qatar Museums/AFP via Getty Imag)
“We thank you all for your love and support, and we ask for privacy as we grieve and celebrate Virgil’s life.
“Virgil Abloh. September 30, 1980 – November 28, 2021.”
Virgil made history when he became the first person of African descent to lead Louis Vuitton’s menswear line in 2018.
But he had been making waves since 2013, when he launched streetwear brand Off White, working with other brands such as Nike and Ikea.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Superstar singer Rihanna became the first person to wear Abloh’s designs for Louis Vuitton before his debut collection launched at the 2018 Men’s Fashion Week.
The show saw the likes of Playboi Carti, A$AP Nast and Kid Cudi walk the runway.
As his popularity soared, Virgil created a custom gown and veil for Hailey Bieber’s wedding day.
Virgil was married to Shannon Sundberg in 2009 after they met in high school. Together they had two children.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
