Lewis Hamilton Drives Dior Men’s In His Direction
Is Lewis Hamilton the world’s most famous sportsman? If not, at least he’s Dior Men’s artistic director Kim Jones’ favourite. The seven-time Formula 1 World Champion has been plucked by the maison to create a lifestyle capsule collection that goes beyond fashion. A tribute to the racer's passion for skiing and snowboarding, the collection also merges elements from African craft.
‘We share a love of nature, a desire to celebrate Africa and an interest in the artisanal process 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.’
The pieces boast voluminous silhouettes, designed to enhance movement while maintaining a casual yet sophisticated flair. Each garment is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, blending traditional savoir-faire with modern functionality. From Dior’s Parisian roots to Descente’s renowned Japanese ski wear and the unique weaves of Burkina Faso, this collection is a global homage to heritage and innovation.
Expect to see casual suiting in classic Dior tweeds juxtaposed with new African weaves, alongside slouchy denim, knits, sweats, and fleeces—all incorporating organic or recycled textiles. The technical rigour of Japanese ski wear ensures that you’ll be protected from the cold while looking effortlessly stylish.
‘Our values and ideas are aligned, making it easy to bring to life a creative collection infused without shared experiences,’ says Hamilton. ‘Focusing on conscious choices and pushing boundaries with each piece, while merging inspiration from my roots in Africa — drawing from their fabrics and belief in natural materials, as well as vibrant colours and powerful energy — has been so inspiring.’
One standout is the B44 Blade, a silhouette that marries retro sportiness with modern design. The Dior Snow Derbys are a game-changer, combining casual day-to-day wear with the technical prowess needed for snowboarding. The Dior Zipped Backpack, made from ultra-resilient fabrics, is both functional and fashionable, perfect for those who seek freedom of movement and expression.
This collection isn’t just about clothing; it’s a lifestyle statement, transcending fashion to offer a diverse, global, and sustainable view of what luxury can be. Available from 17 October at Dior boutiques and online.