It is safe to say that Lewis Hamilton – the seven-time Formula One world champion, who recently won the British Grand Prix at Silverstone – is an athlete well-versed in putting together a newsworthy trackside look. His paddock looks have spanned the colorful, the experimental, and the elegant, embodying what Dior calls a “boldness and singularity” which has won Hamilton his latest prize: a role as Dior Men ambassador, which also sees him guest design a lifestyle collection arriving this October.
Announced earlier this month, the news is a natural progression for Hamilton, who has been closely linked with Dior Men since Kim Jones took the helm in 2018, sporting a slew of custom looks by the designer. “Working with Kim and the talented team at Dior has been a dream,” said Hamilton. “I was honored when he asked me if I’d like to do this with him. Our values and ideas are aligned.”
A Fusion of Luxury and Sport
The collection pays homage to what Dior calls a “winter lifestyle,” centering not on Formula One – though racing codes remain a reference – but skiing and snowboarding, “an alternative side to [Hamilton’s] sporting life.” As such, pieces span colorful technical ski jackets and puffers, slouchy salopette-style pants, and an array of knitwear, from cable-knit sweaters to Dior-emblazoned jumpers. There is even the requisite Dior snowboard, helmet, and wraparound sunglasses. Elsewhere, nods to elegance come in collarless tweed blazers and matching trousers. Styled together, the accompanying lookbook captures Hamilton’s eclectic and free-spirited approach to dressing.
Celebrating Craftsmanship and Heritage
The pair note that it was important to celebrate world craft in the collection, whether pieces created in the Parisian atelier, Japanese skiwear, or – most importantly to Hamilton – artisanal traditions from Africa, the latter coming via woven pieces created by artisanal weavers in Burkina Faso. “Focusing on conscious choices and pushing boundaries with each piece, while merging my roots in Africa – drawing from their fabrics and believing in natural materials, as well as vibrant colors and powerful energy – has been so inspiring,” says Hamilton.
A Perfect Match for the F1 Champion
This collaboration reflects Hamilton’s unique ability to blend high fashion with high performance, offering clients a more personalized experience, as the collection reflects Hamilton’s personal touch and unique designs. As a celebrated figure in both the sports and fashion worlds, his partnership with Dior not only highlights his impeccable style but also his commitment to innovation and cultural appreciation. For those looking to infuse their wardrobe with a touch of Hamilton’s distinctive flair, this collection offers a perfect balance of functionality, elegance, and bold design.
The new Lewis Hamilton x Dior collection will be available from October 2024, promising to bring a fresh perspective to winter fashion and a deeper connection between luxury and sport.
