Tommy Hilfiger has today announced the launch of a new limited-edition collection, in collaboration with New York-based designer Clarence Ruth and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team. With a campaign shot by photographer Micaiah Carter and featuring Mercedes F1 stars Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, the exciting 10-piece capsule sees varsity jackets, chinos, and hockey jerseys “blur the lines of fashion and motorsports through Ruth’s visionary lens”, as Hilfiger himself says today.
We caught up with Lewis Hamilton for an exclusive chat about the collaboration, his personal style, and his season so far.
CZ8: Tommy Hilfiger and you have been friends for quite some time, when and how did you guys meet?
LH: I think the first time I met Tommy was at the Met Gala around 2015. It was the first time I went and I bumped into Tommy, and he was looking great as he always does in his tailored suit. From the get-go he was bright eyed and positive. He was really complimentary about how I looked – even though now when I look back I wouldn’t wear that suit today. We kept bumping into each other and he said he’d love to do something together – and the conversation kept growing. It was heart-warming and generous of him. He’s a very kind human being.
CZ8: What was it that drew you to the Tommy X Mercedes-AMG F1TM X Clarence Ruth collection?
LH: I was drawn by the idea of seeing a person of color come through and have an opportunity like I had. Having read about Clarence and finding out that he came through Harlem’s Fashion Row and Tommy’s People’s Place Program, I was keen to keep an eye on the work he was doing. I was fascinated to see what he would do in comparison to the collaborations I did. Things like how he’s utilized Petronas green which is not an easy color to mix in with the Tommy blue and red. I think he did a great job with that.
CZ8: What’s your favorite piece in the collection?
LH: The biker-style motorsport jersey with Clarence’s logo on the front.
CZ8: What are the parallels between high-fashion and high-performance driving?
LH: The parallel I see is you’ve got two large organisations who are finding new technologies, new fabrics, and developing new techniques. In Formula 1 you’re developing new technology constantly. In the paddock people are starting to explore their fashion more. It feels like the beginning of a journey together.
CZ8: How would you describe your personal style?
LH: Constantly evolving. Right now, it’s more intentional than ever. I’m working with individuals who are still building their brand and are working their way up, as well as wearing custom pieces from different designers. I used to describe my style as urban chic but today it’s more simplified. Still edgy but with a lot more tailoring, while utilizing some urban elements.
CZ8: How do you feel going into the Silverstone Grand Prix being your home race?
LH: It’s different each time. Going to your own Grand Prix is really special as you’re closer to your family, and it’s incredible to witness the support from your home fans. Each year you arrive with the same intention – to win. It’s always a unique experience. Your team is nearby. The whole family is there.
The Tommy Hilfiger x Mercedes-AMG F1 x Clarence Ruth collection will be available at tommy.com, shop.mercedesamgf1.com, and select TOMMY HILFIGER stores on the 20th June. Over the course of the Barcelona Grand Prix weekend on the 21st – 23rd June, the collection will worn by both Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.
