LVMH sells Off-White to Elie Tahari owner Bluestar Alliance

Fashion conglomerate LVMH has announced that it has sold Off-White LLC, the company that owns it Cream colored Brand to New York-based brand management company Bluestar Alliance LLC.

Founded in 2006 by Joseph Gabbay and Ralph Gindi, Bluestar Alliance owns, manages and markets a portfolio of consumer brands, particularly department store retail brands. The portfolio consists of Hurley, Scotch & Soda, Bebe, Elie Tahari, Kensie, Justice, Catherine Malandrino, Nanette Lepore, English Laundry, Brookstone, Joan Vass and Limited Too.

“No information will be provided” about the terms of the transaction, it said in a statement.

Joey Gabbay, CEO of Bluestar Alliance, said: “Virgil was a creative pioneer who had a profound impact on the global fashion industry and creative community. The acquisition of Off-White represents a unique opportunity for Bluestar Alliance to honor and build on the enduring legacy of Virgil Abloh's visionary approach to fashion aligns with our core values. Abloh's ability to combine street culture with haute couture has laid a strong foundation that aligns with our vision to encourage innovation while promoting diversity.

“The acquisition of Off-White and the opportunity to make strategic investments and build on our global network of resources will enable the continuation of the cultural and creative momentum that Virgil has sparked and aims to further propel the Bluestar Alliance forward.”

Founded in 2013 by Virgil Abloh, Off-White has become a pioneering force in the fashion industry. The brand defines its color as the gray area between black and white – hence its black and white striped logo. Known for its distinctive mix of streetwear and high fashion, the brand embodies a contemporary aesthetic full of cultural references.

In 2021, LVMH acquired a 60% stake in Off-White. However, despite the sale, the brand is still under a license agreement with New Guards Group, which can be terminated in 2026.

After Abloh died of cancer in 2021 at the age of 41, stylist Ibrahim Kamara took over as creative director. However, after LVMH, along with Kamara, attempted to shift the brand from premium to luxury, it seemed in recent years that they had lost Off-White's cult status. We are excited to see how the new owners plan to redesign the confectionery brand.

LVMH said in the statement that it is “proud of the legacy Off-White has built under the visionary leadership of Virgil Abloh. Bluestar Alliance is the perfect partner to continue this legacy.”