
Virgil Abloh: The Architect of Sneaker Culture
Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 Green
All Images Courtesy of Sotheby’s
"THREE PERCENT" c/o "VIRGIL ABLOH," a selling exhibition in LA presented by Sotheby’s, pays homage to the revolutionary designer's profound influence on the sneaker world.

Off-White Converse Chuck 70 The Ten Vulcanized Sample

Nike Air Presto Off-White The Ten Friends and Family

Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 Gold
This extraordinary event showcases Abloh's iconic collaborations and embodies his groundbreaking ‘Three Percent” philosophy - a concept that challenges conventional norms and encourages individuals to strive for uniqueness and creative expression.
From his transformative design approach to his boundary-pushing aesthetics, Abloh has redefined the sneaker landscape and left an indelible mark on contemporary design.
Another standout piece is Abloh’s Louis Vuitton x Nike "Air Force 1". Posthumously released, this collaboration seamlessly connects the decades of prominence of Nike's famed sneaker, showcasing Abloh's design prowess and his meticulous attention to detail. With each pair crafted using materials from Abloh's Louis Vuitton men's collections and adorned with his signature quotation marks, these sneakers represent the fusion of high-end fashion and streetwear influences.
Abloh's transformative vision extends beyond individual collaborations. His role in the release of "The Ten" in 2017, a groundbreaking project created in partnership with Nike, brought forth a new era of sneaker culture. Divided into "REVEALING" and "GHOSTING" categories, each pair pushed the boundaries of design and challenged traditional notions of footwear. Abloh's relentless pursuit of innovation and his commitment to self-expression have redefined the sneaker scene, inspiring a new generation of designers.
At the core of Abloh's philosophy is the concept of the 'Three Percent, which encourages individuals to embrace their unique perspectives and strive for greatness. This philosophy challenges the notion that only a small percentage of ideas succeed and encourages individuals to break free from the constraints of societal norms. Abloh's collaborations and designs embody this spirit of creative liberation, empowering wearers to express their individuality through fashion.

Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High Off-White Chicago

Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 Mid Graffiti

Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 Chrome Toe
Virgil Abloh's impact on the sneaker scene and design at large cannot be overstated. His ability to merge streetwear aesthetics with high-end fashion, his attention to detail, and his willingness to push boundaries have forever changed the landscape of contemporary design. With his profound influence and groundbreaking collaborations, Abloh has left an indelible mark on the world of sneakers, inspiring a new generation of designers and reshaping the way we perceive and appreciate footwear.
The "THREE PERCENT" c/o "VIRGIL ABLOH" selling exhibition at Sotheby's is a remarkable celebration of Abloh's visionary contributions to design and sneaker culture. It showcases the transformative power of his collaborations, the fearless exploration of his aesthetics, and the enduring legacy of his philosophy.

“Witness first hand the extraordinary impact of Virgil Abloh — a true architect of sneaker culture.”
Nike Air Force 1 Low Off-White MCA University Blue