EXCLUSIVE: Lewis Hamilton Explores ‘Afrofuturism’ in Latest Dior Capsule Collection

“Afrofuturism felt like the perfect lens to express this collection with.”

That’s how Lewis Hamilton summed up the approach to his latest capsule collection for Dior, which will be released in stores on July 3.

Last summer, the Formula 1 champion traveled to Morocco, Senegal, Mozambique, Benin and Madagascar, which he carefully documented on Instagram — and took to heart.

“I heard so many incredible stories that inspired me to imagine the future of Black culture,” he said in a statement shared first with WWD. “The way we tell stories through art, science and philosophy is really special. Seeing these ideas brought to life through color and movement inspired me.”

Afrofuturism has long been linked with science fiction, though its manifestations have been myriad as afrofuturist aesthetics surged in popularity over the past decade, hitting the big screen in two “Black Panther” movies.

Dior described Hamilton’s latest capsule as “reflecting once more an alternative side to his sporting life and revealing something more personal.”

“This capsule celebrates performance, excellence and innovation, while demonstrating virtuoso accomplishments in terms of sustainability,” the company said. “Hamilton has engaged in a dialogue with the Dior ateliers to summon a unique collection by striking the right balance between the power and energy of motorsports and the exceptional finesse of French and international savoir-faire.”

A striking leopard-print tweed — employed for roomy shorts, a shirt, hooded jacket and a blouson — exemplifies “where afrofuturism and Dior historicism ultimately meet,” according to the brand. (Founder Christian Dior used a leopard print from his first collection in 1947, and it was a favorite of the couturier’s muse Mizza Bricard.)

To be sure, Hamilton’s bold and eclectic personal style also can be felt in the juxtaposition of roomy tailoring with work boots and bucket hats, along with more daring fashion items like a sleeveless sweater in a graphic print, or a short jacket inspired by a style from a 1968 Miss Dior collection.

Key accessories include B44 sneakers in gradient colors and metallics, and bags in sustainable materials with climbing-rope trim, monogram motifs and functional details.

According to Lewis — who will be in the fashion spotlight as a cochair of next month’s Met Gala in support of the Costume Institute’s spring exhibition “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” — fashion is “about self-expression and embracing all the different parts of yourself.”

“Being authentic to your style and communicating yourself through clothing is such a powerful feeling,” he said. “That’s what this collection embraces — an exploration of identity, versatility and expression.”

Widely regarded as the most stylish Formula 1 driver and one of the most successful in the history of the sport, Hamilton forged his partnership with Dior last year, becoming an ambassador and guest designer for lifestyle capsules that play up his passion for Africa and commitment to sustainability.

The driver, who has long followed a plant-based diet, eschews animal leather and for the latest capsule used washed velvet and canvas for footwear and a variety of sustainable and recycled fabrics for bags.

Hamilton fronted the campaign for the first capsule that dropped last October, and last year wore Dior off-track at Formula 1 races in Abu Dhabi, Las Vegas and São Paulo.