Five Questions With Off-White’s Virgil Abloh

To describe Off-White’s Virgil Abloh in one word would be “busy.” When he’s not designing his own men’s and women’s ready-to-wear collections, he’s producing music, DJing around the world and acting as a creative righthand man to Kanye West.

It’s clear he’s the music scene’s hottest label right now, too, with celebrity fans such as Jay Z, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Justin Bieber and Rita Ora sporting his looks.

Below, Abloh previews his latest offerings.

Describe your spring ’17 men’s collection in one sentence.

VA: I was inspired by the façade and what lies beneath things.

Off-White Spring 2017 — Off-White spring ’17 men’s collection.

CREDIT: REX Shutterstock.

You used Vans shoes in your most recent show. Have you always been into sneakers?

VA: As a kid, I was always into sneakers and footwear. Jordans and skate shoes were always my go-to as a teenager.

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You also collaborated with Umbro on sneakers. Why?

VA: I was inspired by a particular U.K. style of dress and was after the idea of designing something generic.

Off-White’s Virgil Abloh.

CREDIT: Courtesy of brand.

Musicians love Off-White. How does music influence fashion?

VA: To me, artists are pure beacons of lifestyle. My design sensibility is rooted in lifestyle, so for me it is an honor that it resonates.

You also produce and DJ music, so what are your current obsessions?

VA: I’m forever inspired by artists like James Blake, King Krule, Sampha. And I love the young artists like Lil Uzi, Famous Dex and Migos just the same.