It’s a heartbreaking moment in the fashion industry as the world mourns the loss of the iconic fashion designer and Louis Vuitton’s artistic director for menswear, Virgil Abloh, who passed away on November 28, 2021.

The 41-year-old had been battling a “rare, aggressive form of cancer” called cardiac angiosarcoma for the past two years and despite undergoing several treatments, his death was announced in a statement released on his personal Instagram feed by his family.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by @virgilabloh

“For over two years, Virgil valiantly battled a rare, aggressive form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma,” the statement read. “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.”

Known for his immense contribution to the world of fashion, this legendary designer created an aesthetic amalgamation of streetwear and luxury style, unlike many before.

Back in 2018, Abloh was given the title of artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear collection. His first collection was then presented at Paris Fashion Week, after which he continued to work for Louis Vuitton and Off-White, amid the health-related challenges.

Throughout his career, he’s managed to work for numerous well-reputed brands such as Nike, Jimmy Choo, Moncler and also served as Kanye West’s creative director.

LVMH’s CEO, Bernard Arnault, also released a statement mourning Virgil: “We are all shocked after this terrible news. Virgil was not only a genius designer, a visionary, he was also a man with a beautiful soul and great wisdom.

“The LVMH family joins me in this moment of great sorrow, and we are all thinking of his loved ones after the passing of their husband, their father, their brother or their friend.”

The designer is survived by his wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, and his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by @virgilabloh

Several A-listers have shared their condolences, including Tyga, Pharell Williams, Kehlani and more.

His legacy will truly live on for generations to come.

– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram

Feature image: Getty