Lewis Hamilton has been instrumental in turning the stroll into the Formula 1 paddock into a catwalk, and by extension, an opportunity to work with fashion brands and raise awareness during these highly photographed moments.
The seven-time champion has explained why he is so "intentional" with his fashion choices for those moments, revealing that he feels it is important to promote emerging designers and use the platform to showcase important causes.
Hamilton sat down with Vogue France before attending the Dior show ahead of private testing in Barcelona.
"I do like to be really intentional and thoughtful with what I wear," he said. "I think it's a good opportunity with your on-duty style to kind of elevate up-and-coming, emerging talent. There are so many amazing designers.
"Storytelling is so important. With that, you're able to then tell a story with what you're wearing. It's an opportunity to showcase important causes as well."
@voguefrance Saviez-vous que #LewisHamilton collectionnait les cartes Pokémon ? Ou encore qu’il portait un caleçon fétiche pour s’assurer une victoire ? Découvrez toutes les choses que vous ne saviez pas sur le pilote de F1, lors d’un entretien avec Vogue avant le défilé @Dior par #JonathanAnderson ♬ son original - Vogue France
One particular storytelling moment that caught the attention of fans was at the end of the 2024 season. As Hamilton prepared for his final race weekend with Mercedes before moving to Ferrari in 2025, he clearly put a lot of thought and planning into the looks he chose in Abu Dhabi.
To represent the move from the Silver Arrows to the Scuderia, Hamilton arrived at the Yas Marina Circuit on the Friday in an all-white look before a mixed red-and-white outfit on Saturday. On Sunday, he landed on a full red outfit as he completed his last grand prix with the Brackley squad.
The British driver has worked with designers including Dior, Prada and Valentino, as well as fellow Briton Grace Wales Bonner, who was behind his look for the 2025 Met Gala. The Ferrari driver served as co-chair for the prestigious event alongside Pharrell Williams, Colman Domingo, A$AP Rocky and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.
