The role of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc in reshaping the fashion culture of Formula 1 has been enormous. These two Ferrari drivers – who regularly light up grand prix with their latest outfits – have become global style figures. Thanks to them, and the other drivers who follow suit, the paddock has now become a de facto catwalk.
The research bears this out. According to a recent report from SponsorUnited, apparel and accessories are now the sport’s fourth largest sponsorship category, attracting US$160 million in annual investment from major fashion brands.
On top of that, the huge popularity of the Netflix series, Formula 1: Drive to Survive, has lured millions of new fans to F1, many of them far more interested in the human side of the sport rather than the technology. No wonder fashion is such a key aspect of this sport.
I have worked in fashion much of my life, including launching my own lines. When it comes to sport, I love seeing athletes express themselves through what they wear off the field of play. In a sport like F1, where they spend so much of their time hidden away in helmets and race suits, this is more important than ever.
Inspired by the likes of Hamilton and Leclerc, I have put together outfits – both male and female – for two of the spring races on the F1 calendar. Whether you’re cheering from the grandstands, lording it up in the Paddock Club or celebrating Off Grid in a local Tifosi bar, these will place you firmly in pole position.
