Virgil Abloh was the first Black man to become a creative director for the French company, Louis Vuitton, and he later went on to become the CEO of Off White. The success and creative genius that he possessed put the spotlight on the Black talent within Louis Vuitton. Representation in different spaces is important for the Black community, as it can open many doors for the underrepresented. Abloh focused his career on advocating for inclusivity and diversity. On November 28, 2021, Virgil Abloh passed away from cancer at the age of 41, which left professionals and fans not only shocked but wondering who could fill such large shoes.
On February 14, 2022, Louis Vuitton announced Pharrell Williams as the new creative director for men’s fashion. Williams is an American producer, artist, and entrepreneur who is very successful in his realm. He has won 13 grammy awards, been nominated for two Oscars, and was a judge on “The Voice”. In addition to his successes in his music career, he is known to have a creative and cutting-edge style. In the past, he has collaborated with Adidas, Moncler, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Company, and Marc Jacobs. In 2003, Pharrell founded a streetwear label called Billionaire Boys Club, which has been successful due to its mix of streetwear and luxury styles. Pharrell Williams has broken many barriers in the fashion industry as a Black man who is not afraid to break boundaries and step outside of the box. Whether it is music or fashion, we can always expect something fresh from Williams.
Pharrell Williams collaborated with Louis Vuitton in 2004 and 2008 and has been warmly welcomed back by the Chairman and CEO of the company, Bernard Arnault. Virgil Abloh broke barriers so that people such as Pharrell could have the opportunity to be placed in positions such as this. Pietro Beccari states that Williams’ “creative vision beyond fashion will undoubtedly lead Louis Vuitton towards a new and very exciting chapter”, which he said in a statement on the LVMH website.. Although some were confused about the appointment of Pharrell as the new Men’s Creative Director, Louis Vuitton is delighted to welcome him and his first collection will be released during Men’s Fashion Week in Paris.