The Dedication Series: Virgil Abloh
An Intellect Who Reshaped Industries
Widely recognized for breaking barriers as the first African-American streetwear designer to lead Louis Vuitton’s menswear, Virgil Abloh’s influence extends far beyond fashion; his contributions in art, design, production, and music being just as impactful. In an industry dominated by European and Asian designers, he stayed true to his streetwear influences and elevated the LV brands [already] legendary status. His legacy and impact will never be duplicated.
Beyond fashion and sneakers, Abloh boasts an impressive track record as the creative director of some of Hip Hop’s most notable album covers in the past decade. From 2 Chainz’s Based on a T.R.U. Story (Deluxe), Lil Uzi Vert’s Luv is Rage 2, to Kanye West’s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Abloh’s keen eye cemented his place as rap’s favorite designer and collaborator for over a decade, creating covers that were not only eye-catching, but statement pieces within themselves. Whether it was the up and coming New York grit of A$AP Rocky’s Long.Live.A$AP or the mysterious gloomy vibe of Big Sean’s Dark Sky Paradise, Virgil uncovered ways to sync what we heard sonically with what we saw visually.
“For me, Abloh’s most compelling work wasn’t with Off-White or Louis Vuitton. While it was the former that piqued my interest enough for me to dive into his catalog, discovering his involvement in producing the album covers of some of my favorite records instantly won me over as a fan. The cover art for Cruel Summer, Watch the Throne, and Pray for Paris evoke similar emotions one would experience when gazing up at the Sistine Chapel — striking pieces of art that would be just as revered in any era. Among his impressive repertoire, Abloh’s portrait shot of Pusha T for the Clipse rapper’s “Darkest Before Dawn” stands out as one of the best album covers of all time.“
- Jaxon T. (VP of Product Management, Dripto)
To see more of Abloh’s mixtape and album cover contributions, check out this XXL article: https://www.xxlmag.com/virgil-abloh-album-covers/
Not only a designer, but a fixture in music as well, Virgil has been DJing since the late 90s. In fact, he cited DJing as his “creative release”. He would regularly find time to listen to music as an escape from the work grind. Over the years he would eventually DJ sets at several festivals including Coachella, Camp Flog Gnaw, and Germany’s Melt Festival. Juggling work, travel, meetings, and family is never an easy task. Virgil would always find small pockets of time to connect with his first creative outlet.
For a full timeline of Virgil’s legacy in music, check out this article from Complex: https://www.complex.com/music/virgil-abloh-music-history
“His ability to mix mediums to express the same emotions was his most powerful gift, and what inspires me the most when I think of what Virgil Abloh meant to the culture.”
- Jaxon T.
His influence was enormous, and he branched out into areas not conventionally seen as “fashionable” at the time. His collaboration with IKEA, and Rimowa suitcases still hold their value and resell consistently. In fact, Supreme began collaborating with Rimowa soon after. Abloh was a forward thinker, and refused to stay in the boundaries of “traditional fashion”.
Dripto aspires to continue Abloh’s legacy in pushing boundaries and challenging the way we view sneakers, fashion, and technology. We are committed to empowering our creative communities to reshape and redefine their industries as they see fit. Although we are one of many crypto tokens, our team is focused on standing out by forming deep connections to the sneaker and streetwear community. This year we plan to kick off our Drip Club NFTs, giving our community a chance to take part in this new and innovative technology. While full details cannot be revealed at this time, Dripto stands shoulder to shoulder with creatives — dedicated to pushing creativity to the forefront at each initiative.
“What stands out most for me is that very few visionaries can transcend 1 or 2 industries and make their presence felt in each of them. Virgil Abloh was able to make a lasting impression in 4 or 5 different industries in less than 2 decades. That’s unheard of and it inspires me to never stop creating. He was a prime example of having the courage to dabble into new spaces and to learn as you go.”
- Russ W. (Marketing Manager, Dripto)
Virgil Abloh was a generational talent with contributions to the culture destined to leave an everlasting impact on streetwear. His influence paved the way for other black designers and brands to push through and succeed, most notably Heron Preston and Denim Tears. Abloh brought a unique aspect of interaction and embedding your own personality that was not present in any other brand. He would invite people to express their creativity by modifying, painting, and even cutting up their sneakers — many of which would sit in boxes and shrinkwrap to be resold.
Who could forget the debate between leaving the iconic Off-White tag on your laces, this generations modern 59-fifty sticker staying on your fitted.
His work inspires us to approach Dripto with the same level of attention to detail, dedication to craftsmanship, and immutable passion. We look forward to honoring his memory with a year full of planned initiatives centered around elevating creatives through the Dripto platform. Until then, we leave you with this quote from the legend himself.
“I’d do anything at the right time, and I would also do things at the wrong time if they felt right.”
- Virgil Abloh (Visionary | Entrepreneur | Icon)
Writing contributions: Jaxon Tai & Paul Rhee
