Lewis Hamilton – Shifting Gears into the Fashion World

Longoae Domingos Tembwa on 25 November 2024

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.

Watch Tommy Hilfiger x Lewis Hamilton

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…

Vitality Roses secure 5th spot at FAST5 Netball World Series 2024 

Rosie Brabrook on 21 November 2024

Earlier this month, England Netball travelled to Christchurch, New Zealand for the third year to compete in the FAST5 Netball World Series 2024.

The FAST5 competition is a shorter, faster- paced version of the game with only 5 players of each side, three different scoring zones, power players and unlimited rolling substitutions.    

Over two days, England played six games against Jamaica, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Uganda and Jamaica again in their final match. 

After losing their opening match to South Africa 25-33 following a six- point shot within the power play period in the final seconds of their game, the Vitality Roses gave it their all to claim their first victory of the series against Jamaica.  

Unfortunately, the winning streak did not continue, as the Vitality Roses then lost the remaining of their 3 group stage games against Uganda, Australia and hosts New Zealand. 

Facing the Sunshine Girls again in the fifth/ sixth spot play off and final game of the weekend, the Vitality Roses were determined to finish in success and grab the 5th place spot in the FAST5 Netball World Series.

Following a tight final game, England Roses took the win after Jamaica’s Amanda Pinkey missed three attempts to score a six pointer in the fourth quarter Power Play minutes. 

Captain Zara Everitt, Harriet Jones and Sophie Kelly earned themselves Player of the Match awards across the series. 

Here’s the Vitality Rose’s Instagram round-up:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCNBnOIIsC8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_linkhttps://www.instagram.com/reel/DCNBnOIIsC8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The Vitality Roses hope to continue their triumph over Jamaica in the four- match Vitality Netball Horizon Series, beginning in Manchester, and ending in Kingston, Jamaica for the second leg of the series.  

Words by Rosie Brabrook

Leeds United push for promotion under Daniel Farke

William Cooper on 24 October 2023

It’s fair to say that Leeds United’s 2022/23 Premier League campaign was one to forget. The combined efforts of Jesse Marsch and Javi Garcia, alongside survival specialist Sam Allardyce’s last-ditch rescue attempt, were not enough to save the club from the embarrassment of relegation.Supporters were left to rue underwhelming transfer windows after they were sent down by Spurs on the final day of the season.


There was a distinct lack of optimism around the city ahead of the summer window, despite
the appointment of new manager Daniel Farke in July. As expected, the playing squad saw an
extensive overhaul, with key players Rodrigo and Tyler Adams leaving permanently, paired with a deluge of loan departures. Regular first-team starters including Brendan Aaronsen, Rasmus
Kristensen, and Robin Koch all exited the club for the season, leaving Farke with a massive rebuild on his hands.


Going into the season opener against Cardiff in August, little had been done to change fans’
opinions. New midfielder Ethan Ampadu came into the team, but could only help his new club to a 2-2 draw. This was just the start of a rough month, as defeat away to Birmingham and a draw to West Brom left Leeds languishing 19 th in the table. Just to add to the team’s teething issues, exciting young winger Wilfried Gnonto was angling for a move away and was subsequently left out of the squad for the start of the campaign.


If things couldn’t get any worse, Leeds were travelling down to face in-form Ipswich for their
next game. In contrast to their Yorkshire opponents, Ipswich had made a perfect start to the season, having won all three of their games to begin their promotion push. This trend looked set to continue, when new-signing Spurs loanee Joe Rodon turned the ball into his own net, giving Ipswich the lead after only 7th minutes. However, Leeds responded instantly with three goals in under ten minutes, including a strike from the new £10 million striker Joel Piroe, the prolific Swedish goalscorer signed from Swansea. Leeds eventually came away with a 4-3 win; Farke’s men left Portman Road with a huge statement victory, that they hoped would kickstart their season.

Things were not smooth sailing from here, however. Just three days later, Leeds were unceremoniously dumped out of the League Cup by League Two side Salford City. A chaotic transfer deadline day followed, where the loss of Luis Sinisterra was softened by the arrivals of dynamic midfielder Glen Kamara and tricky winger Jaidon Antony. Slowly but surely, the players started to gel as the squad began to adapt to Farke’s tactical demands. Since the last international break in September, Leeds have picked up 13 points from a possible 18, only dropping points away at Hull and fellow relegated side Southampton. In a world of inverted full-backs and false nines, Farke’s tactical setup is a wonderful throwback. Leeds effectively play a 4-4-2, with Piroe playing in a deeper role alongside the pacy Rutter, who looks to stretch the opposition defense with his pace. When paired with two direct wingers, Leeds are a force to be reckoned with in attack. A 3-0 win away at Millwall confirmed the devastating goalscoring ability of their attacking quartet, as goals from Piroe and Rutter capped off sweeping counter-attacking moves.

Going the other way, the four-man defense is protected by a couple of all-action midfielders,
usually two of Kamara, Ampadu, or 17-year-old Archie Gray. Four clean sheets in their last six games, including shutouts at home against QPR and Watford, have demonstrated their defensive resilience in the last few weeks. The international break has perhaps come at a bad time for Leeds, with them sitting 5th in the table as they hit some good form. Leicester and Ipswich may already be pulling away in the automatic promotion spots, but there’s no need for fans to panic. If they can continue scoring goals and maintain some defensive rigidity, there’s no reason why Farke’s Leeds side can’t finish in the top six, giving themselves a chance to immediately bounce back to the top flight through the playoffs.

Rugby World Cup 2023: Once again we’re seeing a two-horse race

Markus Conneely on 24 October 2023

As the dust settles on another epic weekend of World Cup Rugby, the chances of a northern
hemisphere team winning the World Cup for the first time since 2003 look all but over.
England are just about hanging in there, having been blessed with the most sympathetic of
routes to a semi-final. Both France and Ireland expected to lift the trophy, and though there
was nothing in it and either game could have ended differently, the southern hemisphere
titans South Africa and New Zealand prevailed. They showed exactly why they have won
two thirds of all Rugby World Cups. Tournament rugby is unpredictable, the stakes and
pressure are so high. So how do these two nations manage it so often?


For South Africa everything exists in a four-year cycle. They always save their best rugby for
the biggest, most important stage. Fans and administrators alike fully expect their country
to win the cup every time. Much is made in the Rugby world of the dangers of ‘peaking’ too
early, and yet again it seems as if, despite a loss to Ireland in the pool stages, the Springboks
have perfectly timed their push to the final.


The incredible physicality they bring to every game and their hyper-focus on the breakdown
make them a phenomenal knockout Rugby team. Armed with some of the world’s most
devastating backs, lesser teams with weaker coaches may have been tempted to veer from
their forward dominated game plan. But outside noise never cuts through to Rassie Erasmus
and his Boks.


There are few bigger challenges in the game than knocking out a host nation at their own
World Cup, and it’s no coincidence that the South Africans have managed to do this at the
Quarter Final stage in each of the last three editions. They revel in spoiling the party.
Following a helter-skelter opening 8 minutes, France looked like they may blow away their
opponents after a succession of immense collisions was backed up with the most aesthetic
handling. The Boks though, have enough World Cup winners in their squad to fill out a full
matchday 23. They composed themselves at a stage where few teams would have been
able, and hit back with an opportunistic try. This was the story of the half, as two rugby
heavyweights traded punishing blows. France were absolutely magic throughout, and must
have found it hard to believe that they lead by only three points at half time having thrown
every weapon in their arsenal at the visitors.


Come the second half, the tole of an epic first 40 minutes was clear to see. They were
unable to cut through the Springboks’ defensive line in the same manner. Fond memories of
Tokyo and Yokohama surely eased the nerves, as the Boks used all that experience to
manage the second half to a tee and win the game.


New Zealand benefitted from a similar wealth of knockout stage knowledge. Indeed, it was
veteran Sam Whitelock, playing in his 151 st test, who eventually turned the ball over and
broke Irish hearts after a desperate 36 phase assault. He is likely to find himself in another
World Cup Final, and should he win it, he will become the first man to win 3 World Cups.
Few would have predicted that was possible a year ago, when the All Blacks blew a 19-point
lead against England, in the dying embers of Eddie Jones’ tenure. Coach Ian Foster looked a
dead cert to be sacked before Jones, but the faith shown was resoundingly rewarded in one
of the great Test matches.

The victory was as much to do with former Ireland Head Coach Joe Schmidt, now part of the
All-Blacks brains trust, as it was Foster. Schmidt brought Irish Rugby out of the dark ages,
but he is now responsible for one of its biggest setbacks. A first phase try, that obliterated
arguably the best defence in the competition at a crucial stage in the game, had Schmidt’s
blueprint all over it.


The game-plan required sterling individual contributions, namely from Ardie Savea and Sam
Cain who almost certainly had the best performances of their lives. World Player of the Year
Josh Van Der Flier, ever present Peter O’Mahony and world beater Caelan Doris never made
an impact, in the biggest game of their careers.


It’s hard to ascertain why it didn’t happen for Ireland. Some believe in the curse of the
Quarter Final, with Ireland yet to reach the semis at any World Cup to date. A team that had
won everything there is to be won in the years leading up to the tournament, and produced
the goods in the pool stages just weeks prior against Scotland and the Springboks, didn’t
look their usual self under the intense scrutiny of a knockout game. New Zealand, by
contrast, looked at ease throughout. They have been there and done it before. The fact
Ireland had beaten them three times in their last four meetings was utterly irrelevant to a
nation that goes the distance in World Cups almost every time.


Barring nothing short of a Rugby miracle, England and Argentina too will exit the
tournament and the final will see old foes do battle once more. Another World Cup where
the Northern Hemisphere nations were simply the appetisers, eaten and done away with
before the real main course business began, looks likely. That said, Ireland and France will
only get better. They have some fantastic players coming through, and will take some
beating four years down the line in Australia. England too, will surely be improved.
But the privilege of having players who have been there and done it in the knockout stages
cannot be understated. That experience, in games of the finest margins, is the difference
between progression or not. It is not something you can fake, or stumble upon. It must be
earned. For now, South Africa and New Zealand will continue to have that advantage, until a
team good enough comes along and rips it off them.

How to Spend Summer in Leeds

Jennifer Machin on 8 May 2023

Tired of constant deadlines and exam revision? Well, summer is approaching and there is plenty to do in Leeds. Here’s a comprehensive list of fun things to look forward to this summer to get you through exam season.

FREE ACTIVITIES

If you’re strapped for cash but still want to get out this summer,  here are some ideas for you. 

If you’re still on campus and want to get some fresh air,  go and sit by the pond, next to the Roger Stevens Building, relax and watch the ducks! Campus is also inhabited by plenty of bunnies to brighten your day. 

Alongside this, picnics on Woodhouse Moor are the perfect summer activity. Grab some friends, a speaker and a blanket and sit and relax. Add drinks, snacks, and games for more fun. Alternatively, grab a blanket and book and sit there peacefully alone. Kirkstall’s Armley Beach is also the perfect spot for this, and even has somewhere to dip your toes in!

On a more miserable day, check out Leeds Art Gallery or Leeds Museum as they are completely free! Leeds museum has some amazing exhibitions and even showcases a 3000-year-old mummy. The art gallery is stunning and contains plenty of different periods and types of art for a relaxing day trip. Similarly, Kirkstall Abbey is an enjoyable excursion and is free for all Leeds Residents – but you do need to provide proof of address. Leeds Armories is also free and holds fun battle events!

DRINKING

The sunny weather means one thing…beer gardens! Or why not go all out and try one of the city’s rooftop bars at Belgrave or Headrow House?

If you’re wanting to avoid the busy Otley Run crowds, Summer is the perfect time to round up your friends, get dressed up and give it a go, particularly on a weekday. There is less chance of getting caught in the rain, and beer gardens mean more seating available. 

With the approach of summer, keep an eye out for the University of Leeds society balls, which will be taking place across May and June. Plenty of Societies are announcing tickets right now and provide tickets for non-members too. Plus, lots of them provide free drinks!

ACROSS THE CITY

Leeds has plenty of things going on this summer, with comedy shows, theatre performances and club events every week! Alongside this, there are plenty of festivals to attend in Leeds this summer: from the popular Leeds Festival to Live at Leeds, and festivals to celebrate the 2023 year of culture. There are even opportunities to attend non-music festivals, such as food festivals!

Kirkgate Market is also a fun and exotic place to visit, with all sorts of products on sale. Summer is the perfect time to visit, so you can enjoy their indoor and outdoor stalls simultaneously! They also often have fairs to attend, such as record fairs. Kirkgate Market is also right next to the Corn Exchange, which contains many small businesses and cool finds.

If you’re wanting a good view of the city, try out Leeds Water Taxis. It only costs £2 per person and is a unique experience for a sunny day.

Looking for something close to home? Hyde Park Picture House is due to reopen in the next few months and showcases indie filmmakers, alongside being a fun rainy day activity!

SPORTS

Leeds is a city full of sporting events to attend. 

For cricket fans, there are regular summer events at Headingley Stadium, with a great atmosphere and opportunities to dress in costume! The Ashes is being held there in July, alongside lots of T20 cricket and The Hundred.

Alongside this, there are plenty of home games at the Leeds Rhino’s rugby stadium for the Rugby fans as well as Leeds United games to attend for the football fans.

Leeds is also a city well placed for travel to many race courses, for example Wetherby Racecourse and York Races! These are fun events for many non-sports fans too, with a chance to bet responsibly and have fun with your friends.

Looking forward to: Varsity 2023

Will Heaver on 3 May 2023

Rugby Union Varsity between the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett is one of the most anticipated sporting events of the sporting calendar for students in Leeds. This year is no different as we build up to kick off at 7:30 on the 3rd of May.

The University of Leeds will be incredibly confident with an unbeaten home record this season in the BUCS Northern Prem. This includes an eye-catching victory against Nottingham Trent and a brilliant draw against League Champions Newcastle. They are led by captain and second row Jake Aldridge, who will be ably supported in the pack by last year’s stand out player, flanker Greg Jones and another returner in Ollie Kenyon. The Gryphons play an expansive game and key to that is fly half Daniel Troup who will be charged with directing the team around the park and putting exciting backs Owen Dudman, Finn Cook and Greg Kitson into space. They will hope their experienced players will bring that bit of extra nous in the game’s big moments.

Their opponents Leeds Beckett have won the last three encounters at Headingley but this year the game looks set to be on a knife edge. Beckett, led by captain and hooker Madison Hunting, are a much-changed side to the one that were victorious last year.  Hunting is the only returning member from the dominant starting pack last year. However, they do still have plenty of talent and size in England Students prop Callum Hancock and dynamic back rowers Khalik Kareem and Olly Mullarkey. They also do not lack for X factor out wide with the Harlequins’ rapid Conor Oresanya, and classy full back Matt Salisbury both players to watch.

Beckett have had a tough season in BUCS Super Rugby this year, finishing bottom of the league but they will be buoyed by a victory in the relegation play off against a much-fancied Brunel side. That game was played in terrible conditions but was won through a great team try finished off by inside centre Alex Green.

This game promises to be incredibly tight and with both sides pushed on by partisan support the game could go either way and will be decided by the finest of margins.

Before the men’s game is the third edition of the Women’s Rugby Varsity with both sides having one a game each. Leeds Beckett won last years game and will be hoping to go back-to-back led by captain Georgia Naylor. Back rower Lotte Westerlaken and back Holly Veitch both are players to watch out for. Uni Of will be no push over however, led by scrum half Pippa Gammer and with Premier 15 players, such as prop Leah Romain and utility back Charlotte Lacy. Leeds certainly have the fire power to match Beckett.