Disappeared in November 2021, the renowned American designer, Virgil Abloh, will be commemorated through an award at New York Fashion Week, which begins on September 6th. This prestigious award aligns perfectly with Abloh’s lifelong commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity within the fashion industry. Less than a year after his untimely passing, Virgil Abloh’s influence continues to inspire and shape the world of fashion. As the artistic director for Louis Vuitton’s men’s collections, the creative mind behind Off-White, a talented DJ, an exhibited artist, and a passionate advocate for architecture and floral art, Abloh’s impact extends far beyond his individual accomplishments.
Various projects honoring Abloh’s legacy are currently underway, including a retrospective exhibition and a final collaboration with luxury automobile brand Mercedes-Benz. However, his influence reaches beyond his body of work to embody the values of inclusivity and diversity, which he championed throughout his career.
These core values resonate deeply with Harlem’s Fashion Row, an organization dedicated to promoting talent from underrepresented communities within the fashion and design industries since 2007. As the host of the 15th edition of the Fashion Show & Style Awards, Harlem’s Fashion Row will curate a creative event centered around the theme “Future’s Past” to kick off New York Fashion Week. In addition to this, they will introduce the inaugural Virgil Abloh Award, presented in collaboration with luxury giant LVMH, the parent company of Louis Vuitton.
The esteemed Virgil Abloh Award will be presented by Sharon Abloh, Virgil’s wife, to the multi-talented actress, screenwriter, and producer, Issa Rae. This recognition celebrates Ishaa Rae’s commitment to pushing boundaries and empowering underrepresented voices in the entertainment industry.
Virgil Abloh has always been at the forefront of championing people of color in the fashion industry and other artistic domains. His creation of the mentoring platform “Free Game” and the “Post Modern” scholarship exemplified his dedication to providing support and opportunities for aspiring talents from marginalized backgrounds. By naming an award after Abloh, not only is his memory honored, but the importance of continuing his legacy of inclusivity and diversity is reinforced within the fashion world.
The Virgil Abloh Award serves as a powerful reminder of how one individual can have a transformative impact on an entire industry. It exemplifies the influential role that art, fashion, and creativity play in bridging gaps, breaking barriers, and inspiring meaningful change. As the fashion industry progresses, it is crucial that recognition and support for underrepresented voices continue to grow. Through honoring those who embody Abloh’s values, we take a significant step towards cultivating a more inclusive and diverse future, not only within the fashion industry but also beyond it.
Useful Links:
– LVMH official website
– Harlem’s Fashion Row official website
