Lewis Hamilton played a pivotal role at the 2025 Met Gala, not only as a co-chair alongside Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, Colman Domingo, and Anna Wintour, but as a driving force behind the event’s fashion narrative. The Formula 1 star’s involvement was deeply intentional and transformative, extending well beyond his presence on the red carpet. His dedication to fashion at the gala demonstrated a profound understanding of style as a form of cultural expression, according to The Met’s Costume Institute curator Andrew Bolton.
Hamilton’s engagement began months before the event, involving extensive discussions with curators Andrew Bolton and Monica Miller. He immersed himself in the storyboard concepts and historical references that shaped the 2025 theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” which spotlighted royalty, spirituality, and the power of adornment. Hamilton’s stylist, Eric McNeal, described this preparation as “reflective and groundbreaking,” highlighting the star’s careful consideration of every detail, from his custom Wales Bonner suit to his thoughtful guest list.
Bolton praised Hamilton’s enthusiasm and commitment, emphasizing how his genuine passion captivated those around him. “He’s incredibly seductive like that,” Bolton said.
You’re so seduced by his enthusiasm, his commitment, his dedication and his knowledge.
This energy translated into a fashion statement deeply connected to cultural consciousness and historical reverence, a quality Hamilton has cultivated throughout his career.
One powerful visual that captured Hamilton’s cultural impact was a viral photo from Maranello, where he posed in a way reminiscent of Enzo Ferrari, complete with Louboutin boots and seven window frames symbolizing his seven world titles. McNeal noted,
It’s not just about creating a look, but about honoring a lineage.
Hamilton himself explained that fashion allows him to “vibrate different energies” and express his inner self, showing that his influence is both personal and profound.
In an environment where celebrity often focuses on surface-level glamour, Lewis Hamilton brought scholarship, purpose, and style to the Met Gala. His role as co-chair was more than symbolic; it was a testament to his status as a cultural steward, redefining how fashion can reflect identity and history. This transformative involvement suggests a future where fashion and cultural dialogue continue to intersect, with Hamilton leading the way in meaningful, dynamic expression.
