Ib Kamara, Off-White’s New Art and Image Director
COURTESY OF SHOWSTUDIO.COM
After the tragic death of Virgil Abloh this past November of 2021, Off-White has been in search of who would take the reign of the Milan-based label. Ibriham (also known as “Ib”) Kamara’s relationship with Abloh has grown professionally and personally close in these past 3 years working alongside each other. Between shared values and mutual respect, Kamara seemed like an excellent fit for the role.
Kamara grew up in West Africa before he moved to London at age 11. He explored his roots as a black male and produced many projects highlighting black masculinity, gender, and identity. One being his project 2026, shot in South Africa with photographer Kristin Lee-Moolman. This project showed models scavenging for clothing in dumpsters of Johannesburg and upcycled them to contemporary pieces.
COURTESY OF KRISTIN LEE-MOOLMAN
He was also mentored by Barry Kamen, a Buffalo stylist, and was a costume stylist for musician Sampha’s short film, “Process” directed by Kahlil Joseph. Being in London has opened doors for Kamara. For two years, he was the senior fashion editor-at-large for i-D Magazine. In 2021, Kamara was then appointed editor-at-large for Dazed Magazine until later promoted to editor-in-chief in January 2022.
COURTESY OF THE LEOPARD MAGAZINE
Kamara’s first issue at Dazed paid homage to the British National Healthcare System’s vaccine drive and the strength behind collective change. His contribution to The Leopard Magazine, featured in Dazed, has opened conversations about queer males, masculinity, and a manner of expression. It is a series that has very limited issues with images that are of course, leopard.
Working with brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, Burberry, Erdem, and Labrum London to name a few, he knows what he is doing when it comes to fashion and directing Off-White into a steady path. Kamara has been with Off-White for years styling many of their shows. Before Abloh’s tragic passing, Kamara stated that he wants to see a stronger connection between the brand and the youth.
Off-White’s team has noted that they will always remember Abloh’s creative vision and will continue to pass his legacy along. It is with great honor they accept Kamara to follow in Abloh’s footsteps to lead the brand into even more success.
