Artists from around the world pay tribute as Virgil Abloh dies aged 41
Hailey Bieber, Gigi Hadid and Drake all paid homage to the designer
Last updated 1st Dec 2021
The sad news was announced last night (28th November) that designer and entrepreneur Virgil Abloh had sadly passed away at the age of 41, after losing his battle with an aggressive form of cancer two-years after his diagnosis. Tributes have since poured in for the design visionary from celebrities around the world, including Hailey Bieber, Gigi Hadid and Drake.
Hailey Bieber shared various images with Virgil, including photos of her stunning wedding dress. The model wrote: 'Virgil completely changed the way I looked at street style and fashion, the way he looked at things inspired me deeply. I will never be able to fully express how grateful I am to have known him and worked with him, from walking on his runways to having him design my wedding dress and all the other amazing moments in between, I felt he was always rooting for me.
'He was someone who always brought life, charisma, love and fun to any situation, and every room he walked into. A once in a generation creative mind that is so rare and I’ll never forget his impact. We love you Virgil. 🤍'
Model Gigi Hadid also shared a touching post, writing: 'I am heartbroken by the loss of my dear friend, and a friend to the world, Virgil Abloh. He was 1 of 1. His kindness and energetic generosity left a lasting impression on every life he touched— he made everyone feel seen and special. He will be deeply missed, cherished, and celebrated by me and all the people and industries that have been lucky enough to work around & know the true supernova behind this man.
'I picture him now like our Mickey Mouse .. forever with us, forever adored, forever magical, forever guiding us with that special Virgil FUN; I’m sure that’s how he wanted to be remembered, but still it will never be the same without him in the room. You will continue to inspire me every day, V. I feel blessed and honored by every moment. Rest Easy, my friend. You are so loved. You were the difference. As we always said.. “See you somewhere, soon™️”
'Sending my deepest condolences, light, and strength to Shannon, their kids, and his whole family. 🤍'
Gigi's sister Bella also shared a touching post, writing: 'Im at a loss .. He was someone to everyone. That was the magic power he held. He made every person he came across feel special in whatever way he possibly could. Even when the world felt sad, he brought laughter and color and beauty. The way he made a positive impact on anything he touched, and always pushed for his culture/the world is the reason why he was an angel on earth and one to so many. The most beautiful warrior soul. I can’t believe this . .
'You broke boundaries and made everything your own. You shared your love infinitely. The way your brain worked was beyond anything , and the way you did every single thing in life for your family, friends, and for the better .. . We’re gonna miss you a lot V . You really saw me and supported me on every level. As you did to so many of us. An ethereal light. You always inspired to keep pushing, work hard and be kind. No matter what. I’m thinking about, sending love and prayers to his beautiful Shannon, their kids, and the rest of the Abloh family. I’m devastated. You will be so missed and cherished V. “FOR INFINITY..” Fly high my Libra brother. I know you’re watching over the world now . I love you for life .🌎'
Sharing images of himself alongside Virgil, Drake wrote: 'My plan is to touch the sky 1000 more times for you…love you eternally brother 🕊thank you for everything'.
Kendal Jenner also paid tribute, writing: 'i can’t believe i’m writing this. if you had the privilege of knowing Virgil, you were one of the lucky ones. he was the kindest, most positive, humble, joyful, and full of light person i have ever known. he had the most wonderful way of making you feel so special. his genuine smile would warm your heart. to battle his illness privately perfectly explains the type of man he was, he never wanted anyone to worry about him.
'we have lost a dear friend. no words do my feelings justice at this very moment, but what i can say is that i am absolutely heartbroken. for his family, his kids, his wife, and anyone who cared for him deeply.
'V taught me and all of us a very important lesson, although he knew he had only so long, he was bright, he was kind & he was full of love. we all need a little bit of Virgil in us. he leaves us with his influence, to create and change the world. you did just that Virg. our angel here on earth, is now above us.
'i love you V!!! i will miss you V. i am blessed to have been touched by your energy. i know you’re setting all the best vibes up there. rest peacefully and powerfully beautiful Virgil. till next time ❤️' (sic).
Kendal's sister Kourtney Kardashian also paid homage to the designer, sharing the post announcing the sad news of his death to her Instagram Story and writing: 'you changed the world' (sic).
Follow huge designer brands also shared touching posts for Virgil, with Gucci writing: 'We would like to extend our most heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of Virgil Abloh, an immense inspiration to us all both as a designer and as a person. He will be deeply missed though his vision will live on through the trails that he blazed throughout his career.'
Clothing brand Pangaia also shared a tribute, writing: 'Dear Virgil, You’ve inspired us in many ways. We love and will all miss you. Rest In Peace ♥️🙏🙏🏿🙏🏼🙏🏾🙏🏽🌎'.
Donatella Versace wrote: 'Virgil, I am lost for words. The world has lost a fashion superstar. An innovator. A creator for the history books. I am thinking of all your loved ones on this tragic day. Love, Donatella 💔😢'.
The sad news of Virgil's passing was announced last night (28th November), with a post being shared to his personal Instagram account. The post was captioned: 'We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, and numerous dear friends and colleagues.
'For over two years, Virgil valiantly battled a rare, aggressive form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma. He chose to endure his battle privately since his diagnosis in 2019, undergoing numerous challenging treatments, all while helming several significant institutions that span fashion, art, and culture.
'Through it all, his work ethic, infinite curiosity, and optimism never wavered. Virgil was driven by his dedication to his craft and to his mission to open doors for others and create pathways for greater equality in art and design. He often said, “Everything I do is for the 17-year-old version of myself,” believing deeply in the power of art to inspire future generations.
'We thank you all for your love and support, and we ask for privacy as we grieve and celebrate Virgil’s life. Virgil Abloh September 30, 1980 – November 28, 2021'.
Our thoughts are with Virgil's friends and family ❤️