Virgil Abloh posted a lengthy explanation for social media comments he made yesterday. The Louis Vuitton menswear collection designer, Off-White founder, and frequent Nike collaborator was called out by many on Twitter and Instagram for comments he made on fellow designer Sean Wotherspoon’s account, which showed a video of the aftermath of his looted store, Round Two.
Abloh wrote, “You see the eagerness , blood, sweat and tears Sean puts certain our culture. This disgusts me. To the youngsters that ransacked his store and RSVP DTLA, and every one our stores in our scene just know, that product watching you in your home/apartment immediately is tainted and a reminder of an individual I hope you aren’t. We’re a neighborhood of a culture together. is that this what you want?? once you walk past him within the future please have the dignity to not look him within the eye, hang your head in shame … .”
This contrasted many other designers, including Marc Jacobs and Michael Kors, who sent messages of solidarity with the protesters. “Property are often replaced, human lives CANNOT,” wrote Jacobs.
Abloh was also delivered to task for his monetary contributions to Fempower, an art collective aiding protesters with legal expenses. “I mean every penny counts but Virgil abloh donating $50 when he makes double that from a pair of socks,” wrote one user.
“I can’t believe I donated extra money than virgil abloh and I’m the one that’s unemployed,” wrote another.
Today, on his Instagram account, Abloh offered an apology for his comments and gave an inventory of actions he has taken to point out support for protesters.
“I apologize that my comments yesterday appeared as if my main concerns are anything aside from full solidarity with the movements against police violence, racism, and inequality,” he shared. “I want to update all systems that don’t address our current needs. it’s been my personal MO in every realm I touch.”
Abloh also expanded on his $50 donation. “I can understand your frustration if you think that my contributions were limited to $50,” he wrote. “Purely false when it involves the entire . I even have donated $20,500 to bail funds and other causes associated with this movement.”
Still, many on social media aren’t quick to forgive his actions, further calling out the shortage of diversity on his design teams. “Virgil Abloh said when he applies for employment he fears he won’t catch on . The artistic director of Louis Vuitton. With no black people on his teams,” wrote one Twitter user.
“I will not be supporting you nor your clothing,” wrote another.
