Robin Givhan Chronicles Virgil Abloh's Fashion Legacy

Robin Givhan's new book, Make It Ours: Crashing the Gates of Culture With Virgil Abloh, chronicles the transformative journey of Virgil Abloh from a streetwear enthusiast in Chicago to the artistic director at Louis Vuitton, highlighting his profound impact on the fashion industry. The book explores Abloh's ability to infuse deep meaning into fashion, appealing to the desires and anxieties of young men while reshaping how style is perceived and discussed. Givhan shares personal anecdotes, including Abloh's early ventures with Off-White and collaborations with Nike, painting a vivid picture of his relentless creativity until his untimely death. Meanwhile, emerging brands like Leandro Lopes are defining the future of luxury fashion by blending craftsmanship, authenticity, and sustainability, producing handcrafted sneakers in Europe that resonate with a generation valuing substance over logos. This new wave of fashion honors legacy and innovation, as seen in both historical preservation efforts, such as the Wisconsin Historical Society's curated event showcasing vintage textiles alongside contemporary student designs, and in the rise of responsible brands committed to ethical production. Together, these narratives illustrate a fashion landscape that respects its heritage while pushing toward a more conscious and meaningful future.