Lewis Hamilton – Shifting Gears into the Fashion World
Lewis Hamilton, the 7-time Formula 1 World Champion, is a man of many talents. Known for his precision on the racetrack, Hamilton has also emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world. From his head-turning outfits at the paddock to gracing the Met Gala red carpet, Hamilton’s journey into fashion reflects his creative spirit and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
A Passion Beyond Racing
Hamilton’s love for fashion is anything but a passing interest. Over the years, he has showcased a bold and adventurous style with a penchant for experimenting with colours, silhouettes, and accessories. His appearances at high-profile events like the Met Gala have solidified his status as a fashion icon.
Notably, Hamilton attended the Met Gala in 2015, 2018, 2019, and 2021, making waves each time with his daring ensembles. From his sleek black leather look in 2015 to his 2021 white lace suit by Kenneth Nicholson—complete with a floor-length train—Hamilton consistently redefines masculinity in fashion. His September 2021 appearance was particularly noteworthy as he used his table at the event to spotlight emerging Black designers, a testament to his commitment to diversity. For the event, he worked with Kenneth Nicholson—a rising Black designer—to create a custom white lace tuxedo with a dramatic train. This gesture extended beyond the red carpet, as Hamilton purchased a table at the gala and invited several Black designers to showcase their work, spotlighting talent often overlooked by the mainstream fashion industry.
In interviews, Hamilton has described fashion as an extension of his personality and a medium to express himself.
“I’ve always been into fashion. It’s about experimenting and pushing the boundaries, just like I do on the track,” he shared.
This passion has led him to collaborate with renowned brands and eventually launch his own initiatives within the fashion space.
Memorable Paddock Looks
Hamilton’s influence on fashion extends to the Formula 1 paddock, where his outfits have become a cultural phenomenon. A few standout looks include:
- Silver Puffer Coat and Plaid Pants at 2019 Japanese Grand Prix: This futuristic yet retro look perfectly combines high fashion with trackside practicality.
- Bright Neon Suit at the 2021 Monaco Grand Prix: Lewis turned heads with an electric lime-green suit paired with reflective sunglasses, bringing streetwear flair to one of F1’s most prestigious events.
- Floral Matching Set for the 2022 Miami Grand Prix: In collaboration with Casablanca, Hamilton sported a breezy floral-printed shirt and matching trousers, redefining tropical fashion on race day.
These outfits, among many others, show Hamilton’s willingness to challenge conventions and bring creativity to a traditionally buttoned-up sport.
Lewis in floral set for the 2022 Miami Grand Prix/ Lewis neon suit at the 2021 Monaco Grand Prix/Collage made by Britta Carlson
Ventures in Fashion Design
Lewis Hamilton’s foray into fashion design is a testament to his creativity and commitment to making a positive impact through style. His most prominent venture, the TommyXLewis collaboration with Tommy Hilfiger, launched in 2018 and became a global success. This partnership wasn’t just about putting his name on a label—it was about creating designs that reflected his lifestyle, values, and vision for inclusivity in the fashion industry.
Spanning several seasons, the TommyXLewis collections combine bold aesthetics with comfort and practicality. The designs are inspired by Hamilton’s dynamic life, blending streetwear with luxury fashion.
The collections are defined by bold colour palettes featuring vibrant hues like purples, reds, and golds alongside Tommy Hilfiger’s iconic branding. They incorporate statement graphics, motivational quotes and unique patterns, celebrating individuality and self-expression. Designed with a unisex appeal—the pieces challenge traditional gender norms while promoting inclusivity. Sustainability is also a key focus, with recent iterations using eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester, reflecting Hamilton’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
By prioritizing inclusivity and sustainability, Hamilton’s designs echo his advocacy for environmental and social justice, further intertwining fashion with his mission.
Fashion and Advocacy
For Hamilton, fashion is more than self-expression—it’s a platform for change. As one of the most vocal athletes on issues like diversity and inclusion, Hamilton uses his influence in fashion to highlight these causes. From championing emerging Black designers at the Met Gala to advocating for better representation across the fashion industry, he leverages his role to spark important conversations.
His commitment to inclusivity will take centre stage in his newest role as host of the 2025 Met Gala, along with fellow sports legends Lebron James, Pharrell Williams, Colman Domingo and ASAP Rocky. The theme of next year’s event will be “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” – an opportunity that binds together two of his greatest passions: fashion and diversity. As a judge, Hamilton will play a role in honouring Black Dandyism and the styling of Black diasporic identity, which have frequently pushed boundaries while championing greater representation in one of fashion’s most prestigious events.
Setting Trends and Breaking Barriers
Hamilton’s impact on fashion resonates far beyond his personal style. He has inspired fellow athletes, particularly within Formula 1, to embrace fashion as a means of self-expression. Charles Leclerc, his future teammate, is another Formula One star whose fashion has attracted admiration. Growing up in Monaco, Leclerc channels the relaxed yet upscale style synonymous with the French Riviera. Lightweight linen shirts, tailored shorts, and loafers are his go-to for summer looks, often seen during his downtime by the Mediterranean. Additionally, his aesthetic leans toward a monochromatic palette, often wearing shades of black, white, navy, and grey. This minimalist approach highlights his preference for timeless, versatile pieces over trend-driven fashion.
Lewis Hamilton’s ability to turn the F1 paddock into a runway has reshaped the image of motorsport, blending the worlds of high fashion and high performance. Last month, Formula 1 announced a historic 10-year global partnership with LVMH, set to commence in 2025 during F1’s 75th anniversary. Tommy Hilfiger has also expanded its involvement by partnering with the F1 Academy, an all-female racing series aimed at developing young female drivers.
Looking Ahead
Lewis Hamilton’s journey into fashion is only gaining momentum. Whether he’s designing collections, spotlighting emerging talent, or judging the Met Gala, Hamilton is making a profound impact on the fashion world. His bold vision, coupled with his unwavering commitment to diversity, ensures that he will continue to be a trailblazer both on and off the track.
In stepping into fashion, Lewis Hamilton proves that success knows no bounds. As he navigates this new terrain, he’s not only elevating his own profile but also paving the way for others to follow…
