Pulitzer Winner Givhan Traces Virgil Abloh’s Path From Designer to Legend

With his composed and effortless style, fashion innovator Virgil Abloh disrupted traditional norms within the industry, establishing himself as a notable Black artist, albeit with a brief career. Following his passing in 2021 at the age of 41, his influence endures. In "Make It Ours: Crashing the Gates of Culture with Virgil Abloh," Pulitzer Prize-winning author Robin Givhan explores Abloh's journey from his upbringing as the son of Ghanaian immigrants in Rockford, Illinois, to becoming the first Black creative director of menswear for Louis Vuitton. Before this monumental achievement, Abloh explored various avenues, including fine art, architecture, and DJing, which informed his design philosophy. His streetwear brand Off-White became iconic for its distinctive aesthetics, leading to collaborations with Ikea and Nike. Givhan argues that Abloh's legacy transcends fashion, inciting questions about the definition and value of luxury while exemplifying the importance of community engagement through social media.