A Look at Virgil Abloh’s Fashion Legacy
A powerful new book honors the life and work of Virgil Abloh, the first Black menswear artistic director at Louis Vuitton. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning fashion critic Robin Givhan, Make It Ours tells the full story of Abloh’s journey—from his childhood in Rockford, Illinois, to his rise as a fashion leader.
Abloh joined Louis Vuitton in 2018. His bold style and creative vision helped the brand reach a younger and more diverse audience. Givhan’s book shows how he brought streetwear, music, and luxury fashion together in ways that changed the industry.
Behind the Scenes of Make It Ours
Givhan doesn’t just celebrate Abloh’s success. She also explores how race, culture, and history shaped his career. The book includes details from census records, fashion reports, and interviews with Abloh’s family, co-workers, and industry leaders. These sources reveal what drove him to keep going despite challenges.
Givhan shares insights from top voices at Louis Vuitton’s parent company, LVMH, and from Abloh’s widow, Shannon, and parents, Nee and Eunice. Their stories give readers a deeper look at the man behind the brand.
Fashion With a Message
One of Abloh’s greatest strengths was blending pop culture with fashion. His early work with Off-White and collaborations with celebrities like Kanye West built his reputation. At Louis Vuitton, he used his designs to reflect modern Black identity and challenge old fashion rules.
Abloh’s famous harnesses, first seen on his runway, later showed up on stars like Michael B. Jordan and Timothée Chalamet. These moments were more than trends. They showed how Abloh used fashion to speak to a larger story of pride and creativity.
A Book That Honors and Teaches
Make It Ours goes beyond one man. Givhan shines a light on other Black designers who came before him. She names pioneers like Willi Smith, Patrick Kelly, and Edward Buchanan. Their paths made it possible for Abloh to lead. Givhan reminds us that change happens through many hands over time.
Even difficult moments in Abloh’s career are covered. During the 2020 protests, he faced backlash for a comment on looting. Givhan helps readers understand the full context and the growth that followed.
More Than Just Fashion
Givhan’s reporting makes Make It Ours feel personal and educational. Readers get to walk through key moments in fashion and Black culture. From fashion shows to street protests, the book shows how Abloh used his platform to speak to his people—and the world.
At a time when diversity in fashion is being questioned, this book stands as a reminder. Abloh’s life proves that Black creativity is not only relevant, but also powerful and lasting.
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