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Hamilton's Dior deal and African heritage project—Is he the most influential driver in F1 history?

Sometimes it is difficult to choose between the titles – 7x World Champion or fashion icon. Both are true for Lewis Hamilton. Besides conquering the speeding universe of F1, he finds his interest in the fashion industry. Showcasing his love for fashion and fabric, the 39-year-old has become the Dior Ambassador for Men’s Fashion. He hasn’t stopped there, the F1 icon also guest-designed a Dior capsule! Hamilton and Kim Jones, Dior’s menswear artistic director, teamed up for a sustainable fashion line inspired by Africa.

The collection will be available on October 17 in Dior boutiques and online. Inspired by Hamilton’s dynamic world, the collection blends his winter sports lifestyle with Kim Jones’ appreciation for Africa’s landscapes and cultures. “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,” Jones said.

In addition, the collection will reflect Hamilton’s sporting side and his expertise.“We’ve both been talking a lot about Africa,” Hamilton told WWD. The F1 legend has traveled the beautiful land of Africa, exploring his heritage and dreaming of racing there someday. Finding solace in his African roots, this project is more than just a fashion statement for him. “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,” Hamilton expressed.

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Tracing back to his roots, Hamilton, alongside Jones, is working to promote sustainability. The rich culture of Africa has brought to life the dreams of the F1 legend on the sheets of fabric. Choosing the 2024 Austin GP weekend to launch the Dior collection, Lewis has merged F1 with the world of fashion and art.

What will comprise Lewis Hamilton’s Dior Capsule collection?

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Kim Jones and Lewis Hamilton’s shared values and ideas effortlessly brought to life a creative collection infused with their shared experiences. “Focusing on conscious choices and pushing boundaries with each piece, while merging inspiration from my roots in Africa,” stated the Mercedes driver. As revealed by Jones, the Dior collection embodies “a winter lifestyle centered around skiing and snowboarding and a shared love of Africa’s landscape and cultures.”

via Reuters

Within this collection, African influence and inspiration seamlessly combine functionality and artistry. Featuring soft, voluminous silhouettes that blend sport and style, the collection includes technical outerwear paired with traditional tweed. Along with slouchy denim, graphic knitwear, and artisanal pieces from Burkina Faso weavers, accessories such as protective gear, snow sneakers, backpacks, and custom snowboards complement the ensemble.

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What’s your perspective on:

Hamilton's Dior deal and African heritage project—Is he the most influential driver in F1 history?

Have an interesting take?

This dream project looks promising. Lewis Hamilton, a flagbearer for African representation in F1, has taken a significant step with Dior to unite motorsport, fashion, and his African roots on one platform. Above all, the emphasis on sustainability marks a big stride towards promoting environmentally-friendly clothing. Overall, it’s a unique blend of sport, style, and cultural homage that promises to make a significant impact in both the fashion and motorsport worlds.

Now, we eagerly await the 2024 Austin Grand Prix weekend when the collection will finally be unveiled. It’s truly an exciting time! What are your thoughts on this collaboration? Share below.