A BRIEF HISTORY OF FASHION AND F1

The moto aesthetic has had its fair share of iconic fashion moments – and with the biggest motor racing competition, AKA F1, kicking off last weekend, it’s shifting into high gear yet again. Whether you’re all about head-to-toe racing looks or just love a classic leather jacket, we’re diving into the biggest style moments inspired by the world’s fastest sport.

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We have to spotlight some of the sport’s most stylish drivers – let’s start with Gilles Villeneuve. The Canadian racing legend dominated F1 during the 70s and proved that the roll-neck belongs both on and off the track. And while Michael Schumacher racked up a serious amount of Grand Prix victories (91 to be exact), he also won in the style league with this ‘fit that’s giving peak 00s energy.

GET THE LOOK:
Similar: Selected Homme knitted half zip jumper in cream, £55
Similar: Bershka ribbed vest in black, £12.99

The paddocks saw a supermodel takeover in the 90s and 00s, with a slew of fashion’s finest frequently spotted on trackside. Everyone from Naomi to Kate and Claudia to Beyonce has had an iconic style moment.

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Similar: Tommy Jeans script logo strappy vest in white, £30
Similar: ASOS DESIGN oversized blazer in black, £70
Similar: Valentino petal quilted crossbody bag with chain strap in ecru, £139
Similar: Topshop knitted premium crochet maxi dress in ivory, £95
Similar: RAID Elixir knee boots with square toe in black, £50

IN RECENT TIMES

In 2019, F1 attendance was at an all-time high, and Netflix launched their hugely successful docuseries, Drive to Survive. When it came to culture and fashion, F1 took things up a gear. Fast forward to 2025, and Lewis Hamilton has been announced to co-chair this year’s Met Gala – if last year’s ‘fit is anything to go by, we’re excited to see what statement he serves this time around.

GET THE LOOK:
Similar: ASOS DESIGN boxy double breasted suit jacket in black, £75
Similar: ASOS DESIGN relaxed boxy fit knitted polo in navy, £24
Similar: ASOS DESIGN wide leg suit trousers in black, £35

Fashion is catching on. In 2021 Ferrari veered out of its lane to launch a ready-to-wear collection. Meanwhile, Chanel test drove checked racing suits in its 2022 cruise show.

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Similar: COLLUSION Unisex contrast tipped faux fur jacket in grey, £89.99
Similar: ASOS DESIGN slouchy oversized suit jacket in grey texture, £85
Similar: Abercrombie & Fitch long sleeve suit shirt in white, £60
Similar: ASOS DESIGN wide leg suit trousers in grey with elasticated waist, £35
Similar: ASOS DESIGN satin tie in burnt red, £14
Similar: Mango oversized boilersuit in tan, £66

2022 saw the start (but certainly not the end) of moto mania sweeping across catwalks and into street-style wardrobes at full speed. Moto jackets and racing-inspired silhouettes established themselves as firm staples, since returning season after season.

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Similar: ASOS DESIGN real leather motocross jacket in washed black, £190
Simliar: Barneys Originals Barneys originals collar tab biker in black, £190

Now, celebs bring their style into races in all kinds of ways. Just look at George Russell, who brought head-to-toe Tommy Hilfiger trackside, proving tailoring belongs in the paddocks. We’ve also spotted Peggy Gou, Emily Ratajkowski, LISA and so many others making statements trackside. With style and speed continuing to collide, we can’t wait to see what’s next.

GET THE LOOK:
Similar: Heretic Nine 90's plaid corset in purple co-ord, £55

Similar: Tommy Jeans long wool coat in navy, £200
Similar: Jack & Jones wool mix long overcoat in beige, £99
Similar: ASOS DESIGN muscle fit lightweight knitted rib t-shirt in white, £18
Similar: ASOS DESIGN straight suit trousers in stone with elasticated waist, £35