Lewis Hamilton is a driving force in more ways than one. Not only is he a record-breaking Formula 1 driver, but he’s also making a name for himself in the world of fashion. Known for his bold, eccentric style, Hamilton has become a fashion icon both on and off the race track. With multiple races under his belt this season, his fashion choices have been turning heads and putting him in first place in the style stakes.
It’s no surprise that Hamilton has a keen eye for fashion. In fact, he has been ahead of the game when it comes to incorporating fashion into his life as an athlete. Fashion pages dedicated to driver style, like F1 Paddock Fits, can attest to this. Hamilton has always understood the power of fashion as a form of self-expression, and he has used it to his advantage.
In a previous interview with Vogue, Hamilton shared his thoughts on fashion, saying, “Fashion is about freeing yourself – it’s about self-expression; it’s about you; it’s about slowly, over time, evolving and learning more about yourself and what you like and how you want to show up – how you want to be seen. What makes you feel great?” It’s clear that Hamilton sees fashion as a way to express his true self and make a statement.
Of course, Hamilton doesn’t do it alone. He works closely with his stylist, Eric Mcneal, to curate his unique looks. Together, they have experimented with a mix of emerging, diverse designers and pieces from larger fashion houses. This fusion of styles has become a signature for Hamilton, and it has cemented his place in the fashion world.
But Hamilton doesn’t just use fashion as a means of self-expression. He is also conscious of the environmental impact of the industry and strives to promote diversity within both motorsport and fashion. In fact, he was recently announced as a cohost for the Met Gala in 2025, a fitting choice for the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” This theme celebrates the history and enduring impact of Black dandyism, a style that Hamilton himself embodies.
At the 2021 Met Gala, Hamilton used his platform to invite three emerging Black designers to his table: Theophilio, Kenneth Nicholson, and Jason Rembert of Aliétte. This gesture not only showcased his support for diversity in the fashion industry but also his commitment to uplifting and promoting new talent.
Hamilton’s influence in the fashion world doesn’t stop there. He was recently chosen as the star of Valentino’s Fall 2022 campaign alongside Zendaya. The campaign, which features Hamilton wearing the brand’s iconic pink hue, is a testament to his reach beyond the race track and into the world of fashion.
As Hamilton continues to make his bid for another championship this year, his fashion choices continue to make a statement. Take a pit stop and scroll through some of his best looks from the paddock, and you’ll see why he’s considered a true fashion icon. From vibrant suits to statement accessories, Hamilton knows how to turn the race track into a runway.
In a sport that is often associated with machismo and traditional masculine style, Hamilton is breaking barriers and showing that fashion has no limits. He is a true inspiration, not only for his incredible driving skills but also for his fearlessness in expressing himself through fashion.
So, let’s raise a glass to Lewis Hamilton, a driving force on and off the race track, and a true fashion icon for the ages.
