A Rockford native is the creator of the hottest fashion brand on the planet, beating out competitors like Gucci, Balenciaga, Nike and Prada. 

Virgil Abloh is the mind behind the label Off White, which had a record-breaking quarter. Global fashion  search platform, The Lyst Index says Abloh’s sneaker line sold out, and he created capsule collections with other high-profile brands, including Nike. Serena Williams even wore Off White during the US Open.

2018 has been a defining year in Abloh’s career. He was named the artistic director for Louis Vuitton’s menswear line in march. He is the first African American to receive the title. Abloh is also one of two designers to be featured in TIME Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world. 

During his time in the Stateline, Abloh attended Boylan Catholic High School, graduating in 1998.