French fashion powerhouse Dior has announced British Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton as its new brand ambassador for men’s fashion and guest designer for an upcoming lifestyle capsule collection set to launch in October. This collaboration sees Hamilton working closely with Dior’s esteemed designer Kim Jones on a collection inspired by skiing and snowboarding, reflecting both Hamilton’s sporting and personal life, with a strong emphasis on Africa and sustainable design.
A Unique Collaboration
Kim Jones expressed his excitement about the collaboration, highlighting their shared passions: “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. 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.”
Collection Highlights
The capsule collection merges streetwear and outdoor wear with casual suiting, featuring traditional Dior tweeds and innovative African weaves. It includes a variety of garments such as slouchy denim, knits, sweats, and fleeces, many of which are crafted from organic or recycled textiles. A standout element of the collection is the technical clothing designed in collaboration with Japanese ski apparel maker Descente, featuring woven pieces by artisanal weavers from Burkina Faso.
Key pieces in the collection include:
- Dior-Branded Snowboards: These capture the spirit of the slopes with luxury and style.
- Wraparound Eyewear: Designed for both performance and fashion.
- Micro-Fibre Snow Sneakers: Multi-layered and technically proficient, these sneakers are suitable for everyday wear and for snowboarding.
Sustainable and Cultural Influence
Hamilton emphasized the importance of sustainability and cultural heritage in the design process: “Focusing on conscious choices and pushing boundaries with each piece, while merging my roots in Africa – drawing from their fabrics and believing 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.”
Availability
The Dior x Lewis Hamilton capsule collection will be available in Dior boutiques and on dior.com starting October 17. This collaboration not only highlights the fusion of high fashion with sportswear but also underscores the commitment to sustainability and the celebration of diverse cultural influences. The collection is poised to resonate with both fashion enthusiasts and sports fans, offering a unique blend of style, functionality, and cultural richness.
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