'Just Point Yourself in the Direction of Your Dreams'—Remembering Virgil Abloh's First Off-White Runway
Photo: Courtesy of Off-White C/O Virgil Abloh
Off-White, spring 2016 reaady-to-wear
Photo: Courtesy of Off-White C/O Virgil Abloh
Editor's Note: In honor of Vogue Runway's 10th anniversary, our writers are penning odes to the most memorable spring 2016 shows. Up first: Virgil Abloh's runway debut with Off-White.
Off-White was already generating significant heat—buzz, fascination, and yes, skepticism—ahead of Virgil Abloh's first show, which took place on his 35th birthday. The location, Galerie Joseph, on rue de Turenne in a northern corner of the Marais, looked like a Paris atelier crossed with a Soho loft.
Small and intimate compared to what the Off-White shows would become, the contemporary space helped concentrate the anticipatory energy that was palpable as guests took their spots on the long rows of benches.
Virgil Abloh
Photo: Courtesy of Off-White C/O Virgil Abloh
Abloh, at least at the outset, had his factions. There were the people who knew and admired him for his previous creative projects and/or those with Kanye West (back when the rapper still went by his full name and had launched the Yeezy sneakers earlier that year). Then there were the fashion insiders curious about whether Off-White amounted to more than its cleverly developed graphic ideas and cool, youthful style. Whether the real deal or hype machine, the show represented a turning point for the brand, even if no one could predict what direction this might take.
Previously, I had met Abloh during the lookbook photo shoots—a relatively chill setting where the activity flowed at a drawn-out cadence. Now, backstage before the show, the scene was more frenetic, but Abloh appeared unfazed as he adjusted a model's blousy shirt that buttoned up the back or fielded questions from his team.
His wife, Shannon was there, as was their daughter, Grey, who was likely around three years old and wearing floral-printed mini Doc Martens boots. I wonder whether she has any memories of that day…
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
34 minutes ago
- Yahoo
PRESS RELEASE: GAMESCOM 2025: NACON UNVEILS ITS LINE-UP
GAMESCOM 2025: NACON UNVEILS ITS LINE-UP Lesquin, August 21, 2025 - As the latest edition of Gamescom hits its stride, NACON is showcasing at its booth all the games and accessories set to make headlines later this year, following a notable appearance at the Future Games Show. For three days, journalists, content creators, and partners are getting hands-on with the latest innovations, including the Revosim Pure racing wheel, now compatible with home consoles, and upcoming titles currently in development. Visit us at Market Point Hall 2.1, Booth A010 NACON GAMES AVAILABLE FOR HANDS-ON DEMOS AT GAMESCOMThe Future Games Show, held the previous evening, highlighted three NACON titles, including Styx: Blade of Greed, which was first revealed in March 2025 during NACON Connect. Scheduled for release in late 2025, the game showcased its gameplay in a new video, featuring the darkly humorous master of stealth navigating vast, vertical environments in pursuit of a rare resource known as Quartz. Hell is UsAlso featured at the Future Games Show with a brand-new story-driven trailer, Hell is Us, the upcoming action-adventure title, is being shown in its final version for PS5® and PC on the NACON booth. In Hell is Us, players take on the role of Remi, who embarks on a journey to uncover his origins in Hadea, a nation torn by civil war. Along the way, he must face a mysterious calamity responsible for the appearance of strange and deadly creatures. Armed with specially forged weapons, Remi must learn how to defeat these monsters and make the most of his gear. Hell is Us is set to release on 4 September, 2025, for PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam, Epic Games Store). A demo version is currently available on all platforms. Hell is Us is fully optimized for AMD CPUs and GPUs. FSR 4 is available on AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series Graphics Cards, but it also includes support for FSR 3 for those who have not yet upgraded to a 9000 series GPU. Hell is Us will also be available on GeForce NOW at launch, enabling owners of the game to play on virtually any modern device from anywhere with a high speed internet connection. Edge of MemoriesThe third NACON game showcased during the Future Games Show is Edge of Memories, a new French-developed JRPG. A fresh gameplay trailer was revealed, and the game is available for the first time in a hands-on version at NACON's booth. Developed by Midgar Studio in collaboration with renowned genre artists such as Yasunori Mitsuda and Emi Evans, the game takes players on an epic journey across the continent of Avaris, plagued by a terrible affliction. Players will guide Eline, a brave young heroine, alongside her allies Kanta and Ysoris, as they seek to change their world's real-time combat that allows for chaining spectacular combos by alternating light and heavy attacks, Edge of Memories is scheduled for release on PC and consoles in 2026. Dragonkin: The BanishedHaving entered early access on March 6, Dragonkin: The Banished is debuting its second major update exclusively at Gamescom. This Hack'N'Slash game immerses players in a fantasy world corrupted by powerful draconic forces. The new update introduces a 4th playable character, the Tracker, along with 17 new skills. A brand-new biome is also available, featuring four levels (two volcano-themed and two underground fortresses), a new dungeon, a full bestiary, additional bosses and mini-bosses, and new hunts, plenty of fresh content for fans of the new update will be available for all PC players starting September 16, 2025. NACON EXPANDS ITS RACING DIVISIONAt Gamescom 2025, NACON reaffirms its strong commitment to racing with a fully dedicated space at its booth, new accessory announcements, and three new racing titles available for hands-on demos. Revosim Racing Wheels Now Coming to ConsolesOne of the biggest announcements this year is the official reveal of the console versions of the Revosim racing wheel range. Developed to deliver ultra-realistic driving sensations thanks to Direct Drive technology and plug & play compatibility, these high-end wheels are designed to meet the demands of serious sim racers across PlayStation®, Xbox, and PC for release by the end of 2025, their premium design and precision make them a must-have for players seeking the most immersive racing experience. Unlimited 3: Arcade Fun for EveryoneBuilt for accessible fun and gameplay, Unlimited 3 returns with a more complete formula. This new installment features two contrasting environments: the sunny Mediterranean coast and the twisting, mountainous roads of Japan. A brand-new "Highway" mode challenges players with dense traffic and high-speed moments. With over 40 officially licensed cars and a full career mode, this game offers instant driving enjoyment for all player types. Unlimited 3 is unveiled in a Reveal Trailer at game launches on Switch 2, consoles, and PC in late 2025. Endurance Motorsport Series: Strategy at the Heart of Endurance RacingAvailable for hands-on play at Gamescom, Endurance Motorsport Series, developed by KT Racing, plunges players into the world of endurance racing, where strategy, team management, and performance are key to victory. Designed to accurately reflect the demands of this legendary discipline, the game features long-format races, the ability to switch between driver and engineer roles, and high-fidelity game is set to release in 2026 on PC, PlayStation®, and Xbox Series X|S. RENNSPORT: The Ultra-Realistic eSport ExperienceA major name in competitive racing, RENNSPORT is also available for hands-on sessions. Developed by Competition Company for PC, this next-gen racing simulator is already well known within the global esports community. It focuses on precision, pure simulation, and online competition. Thanks to seamless integration with Revosim wheels and professional-grade setups on NACON's booth, players can experience the thrill of top-tier virtual versions for PlayStation® and Xbox are expected in Fall 2025. A LOOK AT NACON'S GAMING ACCESSORIESVisitors to the NACON booth can explore the brand's latest flagship accessories alongside NACON's engineers and product year kicked off strong with the release of Revolution X Unlimited on April 23. This high-end controller, officially licensed as "Designed for Xbox," has quickly become a go-to choice for fans of FPS and action games on Xbox Series X|S and headsets are also on display and available for demo. Among the acclaimed PRO SERIES, the latest iteration, the RIG 900 MAX, has become a standout, combining high-quality audio with unmatched protective cases, pouches, and travel kits for the Nintendo Switch®2 are also being showcased and are available for purchase on They offer reliable protection against everyday bumps and knocks—whether at home or on the go. *** You can find more content for the games presented at gamescom on their respective Steam pagesFind all the NACON games and accessories on -- About NACONA company within the BIGBEN group, NACON was created in 2019 to optimise its expertise and leverage synergies in the video game market. Comprising 16 development studios, AA game publishing, and the design and distribution of premium gaming peripherals, NACON brings 40 years of experience to benefit the world's gaming community. This unified centre of excellence strengthens NACON's position in the market and creates unique opportunities for innovation and competitive advantages. Attachment Gamescom2025_PR_EN_finalError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
CNN
an hour ago
- CNN
French streamer dies live online during extreme challenge
French police are investigating the death of a popular streamer, who died during a nearly 12-day live stream after apparently suffering abusive and humiliating treatment. Raphaël Graven, 46, known online as Jean Pormanove or JP, is one of the biggest streamers in France on the platform Kick and died on Monday. The 46-year-old military veteran had built a following numbering more than a million across different platforms streaming himself playing video games and had often appeared in extreme challenges. He had been collaborating since 2023 with several other streamers, principally Owen Cenazandotti, known as Naruto online, and Safine Hamadi, both of whom took part in his final livestream. Cenazandotti announced his death Monday on Instagram. In the video livestream that appeared to show his death, after he stopped moving, viewers donated money to send messages alerting the sleeping streamers to Pormanove's condition. The Nice prosecutor's office told CNN that an investigation has been opened into his death and an autopsy ordered. So far, authorities have not announced any charges related to Pormanove's death. In dozens of videos from past livestreams reviewed by CNN, Pormanove appears to be the target of jokes, bullying, physical attacks and degrading stunts. Videos from their joint livestreams show Pormanove's fellow streamers competing to see how long they could throttle him, others show him being shot with paintballs or doused with water. Thanks to donations from subscribers, the group earned money from the livestreams. In Pormanove's final livestream, a counter at the top of the screen suggested the group had earned some 36,000 euros ($42,000) from the days-long stream. During Pormanove's final livestream, which appeared to run to nearly 300 hours, participants were woken up by the revving of a motorbike in their shared bedroom, or a leafblower. At one point, Pormanove appears to be woken up when a bucket of water is thrown over him. In an interview with CNN affiliate BFMTV, Yassin Sadouni, a lawyer for Cenazandotti, said Pormanove suffered from cardiovascular problems. In one video, Pormanove talked of having to take medication. In another, Cenazandotti purports to read out messages Pormanove sent to his mother in which he complains of being 'held prisoner' by his co-streamers. The game 'is going too far,' Cenazandotti said his message read, during Pormanove's last livestream. 'I feel like I'm being held prisoner by their sh***y concept,' Cenazandotti said Pormanove wrote. It's not clear who precisely Pormanove was referring to and in a later clip he tells Cenazandotti, 'you know what I'm like when I'm angry' in reference to the messages. In another clip, his mother berates Pormanove over the phone for letting the co-streamers shave off parts of his hair. 'Are you proud of your hair? Did you see what he did to you?' she said, 'They are treating you like s***.' Sadouni, Cenazandotti's lawyer, told BFMTV that Pormanove's mother participated in staged stunts with the streamers. A common theme in discussions with his co-streamers was Pormanove's wish to marry and have children, a hope that often drew apparently mockery from the streamers. In a video from 2024, Pormanove was asked how he hoped to be remembered when he died. 'No wife, no kids. But what a nice guy!' Pormanove said, 'Me, what's on my mind now, it's to leave a mark.' Sadouni said Cenazandotti – known by his streamer handle Naruto – had nothing to do with Pormanove's death and said that the incidents targeting Pormanove were all staged. 'My client is ready to be heard and to provide all useful information,' he told CNN affiliate BFMTV Tuesday. Cenazandotti has also filed a complaint with authorities that he is being harassed online since Pormanove's death, according to Sadouni. CNN has reached out to Pormanove's mother and Hamadi for comment. Cenazandotti and Hamadi were briefly detained as part of a police investigation into the humiliation of vulnerable people in January 2025, according to CNN affiliate BFMTV. According to the Nice prosecutor, they denied committing any crime and have not been charged with any crime. 'The death of Jean Pormanove and the violence he endured are an absolute horror,' French Secretary of State for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs Clara Chappaz said in a post on X Tuesday. 'Jean Pormanove was humiliated and mistreated for months live on the Kick platform,' she added. Kick, the streaming platform the streamers used, said that all those involved in the broadcast had been banned 'pending the ongoing investigation,' which the site will cooperate with, per a statement to CNN Wednesday.
Yahoo
8 hours ago
- Yahoo
French streamer dies live online after apparent extreme challenge
French police are investigating the death of a popular streamer, who died during a nearly 12-day live stream after apparently suffering abusive and humiliating treatment. Raphaël Graven, 46, known online as Jean Pormanove or JP, is one of the biggest streamers in France on the platform Kick and died on Monday. The 46-year-old military veteran had built a following numbering more than a million across different platforms streaming himself playing video games and had often appeared in extreme challenges. He had been collaborating since 2023 with several other streamers, principally Owen Cenazandotti, known as Naruto online, and Safine Hamadi, both of whom took part in his final livestream. Cenazandotti announced his death Monday on Instagram. In the video livestream that appeared to show his death, after he stopped moving, viewers donated money to send messages alerting the sleeping streamers to Pormanove's condition. The Nice prosecutor's office told CNN that an investigation has been opened into his death and an autopsy ordered. So far, authorities have not announced any charges related to Pormanove's death. In dozens of videos from past livestreams reviewed by CNN, Pormanove appears to be the target of jokes, bullying, physical attacks and degrading stunts. Videos from their joint livestreams show Pormanove's fellow streamers competing to see how long they could throttle him, others show him being shot with paintballs or doused with water. Thanks to donations from subscribers, the group earned money from the livestreams. In Pormanove's final livestream, a counter at the top of the screen suggested the group had earned some 36,000 euros ($42,000) from the days-long stream. Leaving a mark During Pormanove's final livestream, which appeared to run to nearly 300 hours, participants were woken up by the revving of a motorbike in their shared bedroom, or a leafblower. At one point, Pormanove appears to be woken up when a bucket of water is thrown over him. In an interview with CNN affiliate BFMTV, Yassin Sadouni, a lawyer for Cenazandotti, said Pormanove suffered from cardiovascular problems. In one video, Pormanove talked of having to take medication. In another, Cenazandotti purports to read out messages Pormanove sent to his mother in which he complains of being 'held prisoner' by his co-streamers. The game 'is going too far,' Cenazandotti said his message read, during Pormanove's last livestream. 'I feel like I'm being held prisoner by their sh***y concept,' Cenazandotti said Pormanove wrote. It's not clear who precisely Pormanove was referring to and in a later clip he tells Cenazandotti, 'you know what I'm like when I'm angry' in reference to the messages. In another clip, his mother berates Pormanove over the phone for letting the co-streamers shave off parts of his hair. 'Are you proud of your hair? Did you see what he did to you?' she said, 'They are treating you like s***.' Sadouni, Cenazandotti's lawyer, told BFMTV that Pormanove's mother participated in staged stunts with the streamers. A common theme in discussions with his co-streamers was Pormanove's wish to marry and have children, a hope that often drew apparently mockery from the streamers. In a video from 2024, Pormanove was asked how he hoped to be remembered when he died. 'No wife, no kids. But what a nice guy!' Pormanove said, 'Me, what's on my mind now, it's to leave a mark.' 'An absolute horror' Sadouni said Cenazandotti – known by his streamer handle Naruto – had nothing to do with Pormanove's death and said that the incidents targeting Pormanove were all staged. 'My client is ready to be heard and to provide all useful information,' he told CNN affiliate BFMTV Tuesday. Cenazandotti has also filed a complaint with authorities that he is being harassed online since Pormanove's death, according to Sadouni. CNN has reached out to Pormanove's mother and Hamadi for comment. Cenazandotti and Hamadi were briefly detained as part of a police investigation into the humiliation of vulnerable people in January 2025, according to CNN affiliate BFMTV. According to the Nice prosecutor, they denied committing any crime and have not been charged with any crime. 'The death of Jean Pormanove and the violence he endured are an absolute horror,' French Secretary of State for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs Clara Chappaz said in a post on X Tuesday. 'Jean Pormanove was humiliated and mistreated for months live on the Kick platform,' she added. Kick, the streaming platform the streamers used, said that all those involved in the broadcast had been banned 'pending the ongoing investigation,' which the site will cooperate with, per a statement to CNN Wednesday. Solve the daily Crossword
