Dior Has Named Lewis Hamilton An Ambassador

And, the Formula 1 racer has just guest designed a new lifestyle capsule collection that’s perfect for the slopes

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton is no stranger to fashion. He’s been seen many-a-time sitting front row at fashion weeks around the world, so it’s no surprise that Kim Jones, Dior’s men’s Creative Director chose to collaborate with the racing protégé. Hamilton’s guest designed capsule collection focuses on skiing and snowboarding, another side of his athletic life that he enjoys. British, Hamilton has chosen to work with a very French brand to create a sustainable collection, one of international savoir-faire that heavily imbibes African sartorial elements.

“Working with Kim and the talented team at Dior has been a dream, and I was honored when Kim asked if I’d like to do this with him,” says Hamilton in collection notes. “Our values and ideas are aligned, making it easy to bring to life a creative collection infused with our shared experiences. Focusing on conscious choices and pushing boundaries.”

Photos credit: Kenny Germe for Dior

For this collection, Dior worked with global ateliers to get silhouettes that mirror Japanese ski wear flair. They also worked with weavers in Burkina Faso. The touches of weaving and Dior tweeds are offset with slouchy denim, knits, sweats, and fleeces all of which were made with partially organic or recycled fabrics. These materials help protect skiers from extreme cold.

“With each piece, while merging inspiration from my roots in Africa—drawing from their fabrics and belief in natural materials, as well as vibrant colors and powerful energy—has been so inspiring. I hope people everywhere feel good in these garments we designed so carefully,” says Hamilton.

“We share a love of nature, a desire to celebrate Africa and an interest in the artisanal processes and techniques that unite craftspeople in Africa with the savoir-faire of the Dior ateliers,” explains Jones. “Added to that, this collection also reflects Lewis’ sporting side, his virtuosity and our functionality. All in all, the way things came together happened very organically – and enjoyably!”

Photos credit: Kenny Germe for Dior

The collection is colorful, patterned, comfortable and baggy. Who says men can’t wear pink? Pink cardigans are layered with tweed and ski jackets, and African print sweaters fair perfectly with pants and skater sneakers. And the accessories from the Dior made backpacks, to the Neo Artisanal custom snowboards from Swiss Factory 9, goggles, and POC protective gear that was developed in Sweden to some pretty high standards all add flair to the clothing items. 

It’s a new season for Hamilton who is leaving his Mercedes Formula 1 team, and signed an 11-year contract with Ferrari, of which he will begin racing in 2025.