Streetwear really overtook the luxury industry in the 2000’s. Fast forward to today, Chanel, the once known classic maison is joining the streetwear era by making sweaters with logos, a classic streatwear must. Don’t even start with Louis Vuitton. We can really thank the streetwear community for this shift in the luxury fashion.
Well, streetwear started in the urban areas of NY in the 80’s. Some also attribute it to the skate board area in Los Angeles. Japan should also be included in the expansion of streetwear. Kids in Bronx simply wanted to express themselves, little did they know they will wave in this new segment of the luxury fashion industry. You have the high-end streetwear brands like Supreme, Vetements and of course Off-White, the mid brands like Yeezys, Hereon Preston, Y/P Project and my new favourite AMI by Alexandre Mattiussi. You can also consider sport brands like Nike, Adidas, Puma part of the Streetwear conversation.
This post is about Off-White.
Like many of you, I was shocked to hear of the passing of Virgil Abloh, the creative designer and CEO of Off-white and Creative designer of Louis Vuitton Menswear following a battle with cancer. I was really affected by this even though I never met the man. I remember leaving church and before I drove off, I found a cute spot for a selfie. As I was about to post the selfie, a breaking news notification popped on my phone from the Business of Fashion announcing his passing. I could not drive, I sat in my car and reflected on this man’s impact on the fashion industry, in particular what would become his legacy. Virgil truly channelled his creative genius with us and wave in this high-end streetwear era. I joined couple of clubhouses rooms where he was speaking and his eloquence was really refreshing. The way he articulated his thoughts and explained fashion, just brilliant. Louis Vuitton has stood the test of time but Off-White is a relatively new brand, what would become of it? I want to see Virgil’s legacy continue on. I hope the designer who replaces him will have a vision that aligns with the ethos of the brand to continue of Virgil’s footsteps. Virgil gave hope to kids like him, black kids like him whose dream is to join the industry and make an impact. Rest in Heaven Virgil.
Here are couple of my favourite Off-White looks:
You can check out my off-white review on my Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/zzieiX0PEEQ
