Navigating the Post-Virgil Landscape: Off-White Founders Ponder the Path Ahead

The fashion and street culture world experienced an unexpected seismic shift with the untimely departure of Virgil Abloh in late 2021. The co-founder of Off-White left an indelible mark on the brand, leaving its future hanging in the balance. Davide De Giglio and Andrea Grilli, co-founders of Off-White alongside Abloh, now find themselves at a crossroads, contemplating the brand’s trajectory without their visionary partner. As Off-White gears up for its first post-Abloh show at Paris Fashion Week, the co-founders sat down with Business of Fashion to share their thoughts on what lies ahead.

# Reflecting on Off-White’s Current Status

The interview serves as a comprehensive exploration of Off-White’s present state, weaving together insights from various industry figures. Grilli’s assertion that the brand is moving „full-speed“ into the future, fueled by a commitment spanning decades, echoes the enduring influence of Abloh. The void left by his absence is palpable, yet the determination to carry on is resolute.

Michael Burke from Louis Vuitton notes the absence of a precise succession plan, revealing that creative decisions now rest in the hands of departmental head designers. The co-founders hint at a paradigm shift, envisioning a collaborative approach that transcends individual leadership. It becomes evident that Off-White is evolving into a collective movement, a manifestation of shared creativity.

# A Paradigm Shift: Embracing Collective Creativity

In a departure from the traditional model of a single creative leader, De Giglio and Grilli suggest a future where Off-White’s creative direction is shaped collectively. This departure from the norm underscores a commitment to unity and teamwork, emphasizing that the brand’s evolution will be driven by a collective spirit. The idea of a collaborative movement within Off-White emerges as a recurring theme, indicating a departure from hierarchical structures in favor of inclusivity and shared vision.

# Licensing Agreements and Glimpses into the Future

The article also delves into the existing licensing agreement between New Guards Group and LVMH, shedding light on the dynamics of the partnership. With the current agreement set to run until 2026, there is room for both parties to reassess their collaboration. The co-founders express optimism about the prospect of an extended relationship, signaling a commitment to navigating the challenges of the future together.

Drawing parallels with the history of Dior, Burke poses a critical question: What has the founding father left behind? The comparison places Off-White in a historical context, akin to Dior in 1957. The emphasis is on whether Abloh’s legacy is rich, authentic, and extends beyond the realm of fashion. If so, the potential for turning a momentary setback into an eternal legacy becomes a tantalizing possibility.

# Beyond Fashion: Preserving a Rich Legacy

Burke’s analogy sparks contemplation about Off-White not merely as a brand but as a legacy. The focus on values that transcend the transient nature of fashion becomes pivotal. The industry is prompted to reflect on what Abloh has bequeathed to the brand, challenging it to recognize and preserve a legacy that transcends trends.

As Burke aptly puts it, if Off-White’s founding father has left a legacy that is rich, authentic, and deeply rooted in enduring values, the odds of transcending the passing of a visionary into an enduring legacy are indeed spectacular.

Concluding the Chapter: Off-White’s Collective Vision for the Future

As Off-White charts its course in the post-Virgil era, the co-founders are steering the brand towards a future where creativity is a collective endeavor. The absence of a singular leader is replaced by a collaborative spirit, reflecting a commitment to unity and shared vision. With the stability provided by the licensing agreement and industry leaders acknowledging the potential for an eternal legacy, Off-White seems poised to weather the storm of change.

The fashion world eagerly anticipates Off-White’s showcase at Paris Fashion Week, where the brand’s commitment to a collective, movement-driven future promises to spark intrigue. The legacy of Virgil Abloh lives on not just in the garments but in the ethos of Off-White, setting the stage for a new chapter that embraces unity, creativity, and the enduring values that transcend the ephemerality of trends.