Paris, the city synonymous with fashion revolutions and artistic brilliance, is set to host a landmark event this fall. “Virgil Abloh: The Codes,” the first European retrospective dedicated to the visionary talent of Virgil Abloh, opens its doors on September 30th at the Grand Palais. This date, marking what would have been Abloh’s birthday, heralds an unprecedented exhibition showcasing over 20,000 pieces from the designer’s vast archive. Spanning his work with Louis Vuitton, OFF-WHITE, and personal collections, the exhibition not only honors Abloh’s remarkable journey but also cements his indelible impact on contemporary fashion history.
In an era that seeks to blend cultural narratives with technological advancements, the upcoming Virgil Abloh exhibition in Paris stands as a testament to the power of creative vision transcending boundaries. With pieces hailing from Chicago, London, Milan, and Paris, the exhibit offers an intimate glimpse into Abloh’s universe, providing an immersive experience into the mind of one of fashion’s most trailblazing figures.
A Tribute to a Visionary
The retrospective, titled “Virgil Abloh: The Codes,” goes beyond a mere display of Abloh’s work; it is a profound homage to his ethos of accessibility, community, and innovation. Shannon Abloh, the late designer’s wife and the president of the Virgil Abloh Foundation, emphasizes the exhibition’s aim to share Abloh’s personal collection, unfinished projects, and significant works with the public. This initiative not only celebrates Abloh’s legacy but also his commitment to making information accessible and collaborative. Through Archives™, Virgil continues to inspire and enlighten as a beacon of creative knowledge.
Collaborative Genius
The exhibition, realized in collaboration with Nike and curated by Chloe and Mahfuz Sultan, longtime collaborators of Abloh, highlights the designer’s multidisciplinary approach. It follows the announcement of the first biography dedicated to Abloh, “Make It Ours” by Robin Givhan, set for release in July 2025. This biography aims to encapsulate Abloh’s career through the voices of those who worked closely with him, including Kanye West, showcasing the extensive reach of his influence.
Archival Magnitude
Abloh’s untimely passing in November 2021 from a rare cancer left the fashion world in mourning but also with a legacy that continues to inspire. Known for his voracious collecting—from fashion and design to music and art—the exhibition draws from an immense archive. The display at the Grand Palais offers a comprehensive look at nearly two decades of Abloh’s creative output, reflecting his unique ability to blur the lines between different creative disciplines.
Exploring “The Codes”
“Virgil Abloh: The Codes” delves into the distinctive visual language that Abloh developed throughout his career. The exhibition showcases the everyday objects that inspired him, his career milestones, and his cultural heritage, aiming to share his legacy with the global creative community and the public. This event marks the beginning of a commitment to narrating Abloh’s legacy and principles, as highlighted by Shannon Abloh. It’s an extraordinary opportunity to honor his memory and his vision of an increasingly collaborative and inclusive knowledge exchange.
An Inspirational Figure
More than four years after his death, Virgil Abloh remains a towering figure in not just fashion but across multiple creative domains. Born to Ghanaian immigrant parents in Rockford, Illinois, Abloh’s groundbreaking journey as the first African-American artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear collection redefined the brand’s commercial narrative. His incorporation of streetwear aesthetics and Afro-American cultural references into high fashion, coupled with his conceptual approach influenced by graphic design and architecture, showcased his multifaceted genius.
Legacy of Exhibitions
“Virgil Abloh: The Codes” is not the first exhibition to honor the designer. The Brooklyn Museum in New York and other venues have previously celebrated Abloh’s work, focusing on community values, inclusivity, and accessibility in fashion and culture. These exhibitions underscored Abloh’s inclusive approach and commitment to democratizing fashion, mirroring the principles that will guide “The Codes” at the Grand Palais.
What’s Next
The “Virgil Abloh: The Codes” exhibition presents a unique opportunity to witness the legacy of one of the most influential figures in contemporary fashion. It not only showcases the breadth of Abloh’s work but also highlights his profound impact on the industry and beyond. As visitors walk through the Grand Palais from September 30th to October 10th, 2025, they will experience the visionary world of Virgil Abloh—a world where creativity knows no bounds, and fashion serves as a universal language.