New York-Based Brand Portfolio Bluestar Alliance Takes Over Off-White
LVMH has announced the sale of Off-White LLC, the company behind the Off-White brand, to the New York-based Bluestar Alliance LLC, owners of Hurley, Scotch & Soda, Elie Tahari, and Justice. While financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, the acquisition marks a significant shift for the streetwear brand founded by the late Virgil Abloh in 2012.
Abloh, a groundbreaking designer and cultural icon, transformed Off-White into a global brand known for blending streetwear with high fashion, setting trends and influencing an entire generation of designers. Following his passing in 2021, the brand has continued to maintain its cultural relevance and strong influence in fashion, and is currently led by creative director Ib Kamara.
“Virgil was a creative pioneer who had a profound impact on the global fashion industry and creative community. Acquiring Off-White represents a unique opportunity for Bluestar Alliance to honor and build upon the enduring legacy of Virgil Abloh,” said Joey Gabbay, chief executive officer of Bluestar Alliance. “His visionary approach to fashion resonates deeply with our core values. Abloh’s ability to fuse street culture with high fashion has laid a powerful foundation that aligns with our vision of fostering innovation while embracing diversity. The acquisition of Off-White, and the opportunity to provide strategic investment and build upon our global network of resources will allow for the continuation of the cultural and creative momentum that Virgil ignited, one that Bluestar Alliance is committed to carrying forward.”
Bluestar Alliance, founded in 2006 by Gabbay and Ralph Gindi, owns and manages a diverse portfolio of consumer brands, including Hurley, Scotch & Soda, Elie Tahari, and Justice, among others. The company is recognized for its ability to build upon brand legacies while expanding global reach and market presence.
In a statement, LVMH praised Abloh’s work and expressed confidence in Bluestar Alliance’s ability to carry on his vision. “We are proud of the legacy that Off-White has built under Virgil Abloh’s visionary leadership. Bluestar Alliance is the perfect partner to carry that legacy forward. Bluestar Alliance shares our commitment to respect creative integrity, and we are confident that, under their stewardship, Off-White will continue to innovate while respecting the spirit and values of the brand.”
Virgil Abloh Securities, the creative company led by Abloh’s wife Shannon Abloh to continue and spread the artist’s legacy, parted ways with Off-White in 2022. A statement from the company reads, “In honor of Virgil’s 44th birthday, we celebrate his legacy and will continue to live with grace and positivity. Virgil Abloh Securities will push forward the future of Virgil Abloh’s vision by spreading his ethos and essence globally, led by Shannon Abloh.”