**Virgil is currently the leading figure in fashion, steering the industry whether he realizes it or not. Today’s show invitation was a plastic-wrapped jeweled white glove, paying homage to the collection’s key inspiration: Michael Jackson. The show was set against a theatrical backdrop resembling Ludlow Street in New York’s Lower East Side, complete with storefronts and cobblestones. Abloh achieved something remarkable by making a grand Louis Vuitton show feel personal. It resembled an event more than a typical fashion show, featuring live music from Blood Orange’s Dev Hynes and live graffiti. This immersive atmosphere drew us into Abloh’s captivating world. He is fully aware of his influences, and if anyone can revive the iconic glove for the long term, it’s Virgil. Jackson’s legacy was one of inclusivity and his desire to improve the world was always evident. Abloh, a pioneer in inclusivity, continued this theme with show notes that included maps of the models’ birthplaces, symbolizing a modern-day ‘We Are the World.’
One model, bearing a striking resemblance to a young Michael Jackson, wore a purple silk outfit and skillfully navigated the runway, interacting with other models before pausing against a faux lamppost and exiting. He returned for the finale, performing backflips through the set, embodying both the confusion and confidence of Jackson and Abloh. This performance captured the essence of both figures: young artists at the peak of their creativity, ready to share their vision with the world.**