Ahead of the Met Gala, Tracing Lewis Hamilton’s Style Evolution

Lewis Hamilton may be best known for his impressive race car driving—he is a seven-time winner of the Formula One World Drivers’ Championship, after all—but fashion fans know that in addition, Hamilton is no stranger to a strong red carpet look. Over the years, he has navigated events such as the Met Gala and British Fashion Awards with aplomb, choosing inventive looks that stray from the pack. It’s only natural, then, that Lewis was chosen as one of the 2025 Met Gala co-hosts: On the First Monday in May, Hamilton will join fellow co-hosts Colman Domingo, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour on the Met steps.

In honor of the upcoming event, Vogue is taking a look back at some of Hamilton’s most memorable red carpet looks over the years. Hamilton emerged on the global stage in the 2010s, often spotted in the era’s skinny-fit suits and graphic, designer streetwear—from satin Louis Vuitton bomber jackets to printed Prada styles. Another one of his recurring wardrobe staples? Sleek leather racing jackets—an ode to his own masterful skills behind the wheel. In recent years, however, Hamilton has become a true fashion icon, upping his style game with forward-thinking, statement-making designs. Working with stylist Eric Mcneal, Hamilton has taken traditional suits and given them a modern twist.

At the 2024 Met Gala, meanwhile, the star driver wore a custom Burberry look that paid homage to 18th-century Black gardener John Ystumllym and poet Alex Wharton, via embroidery and a branch-like necklace. At this year’s GQ Global Creativity Awards, Hamilton donned a glitzy pinstriped coat with strands of crystals. Whenever he hits up a function, there will always be an unexpected element—and that’s the making of a true red carpet star. As for what Hamilton wear on the Met steps come the big day? You will just have to wait and see. But judging on his fashion history, the look is sure to be good.

Below, more of Hamilton’s best fashion moments.