From working as Kanye West's creative director, to launching his own labels Pyrex Vision, Off-White and collaborating with brands like Nike, Virgil Abloh has solidified himself as a fashion and street culture icon. Louis Vuitton announced on March 26th that Virgil Abloh has been appointed as the new artistic director of men's, stepping in the previous shoes of Kim Jones. The news comes as history in the making for LVMH and the fashion industry where Abloh is the first African-American to become artistic director. Vogue acknowledges the importance of diversity and at the same time the underrepresentation that exists, bringing to light that only two other French fashion houses are lead by people of colour including, "Balmain, for which Olivier Rousteing works, and Kenzo, the LVMH label where Carol Lim and Humberto Leon."

It isn't surprising from Off-White's rapid success that LVMH would take notice of the mega-hyped designer. What Abloh follows from Kim Jones' exit is a similar vision of tapping into streetwear influences. Collaborations by Abloh have become the designer's definitive strength, working with brands and collaborating beyond the realms of fashion. 

Louis Vuitton's chairman and CEO, Michael Burke said that, “Having followed with great interest Virgil’s ascent since he worked with me at Fendi in 2006, I am thrilled to see how his innate creativity and disruptive approach have made him so relevant, not just in the world of fashion but in popular culture today.” In a statement, Abloh shared, “It is an honour for me to accept this position. I find the heritage and creative integrity of the house are key inspirations and will look to reference them both while drawing parallels to modern times.”

Abloh will continue designing at Off-White while making his debut at Paris Fashion Week men's coming up in June this year at Louis Vuitton.