Kim Kardashian made her first public appearance with Formula One star Lewis Hamilton at the Super Bowl on Sunday night, showcasing a striking 90s-inspired transformation. The reality television icon, 45, channelled the iconic Baywatch era of Pamela Anderson for the high-profile date, marking a significant departure from her usual sleek aesthetic.
A Nostalgic Transformation
The mother-of-four sported a distinctive clip-in fringe and an oversized choker, elements that directly referenced Anderson's signature 90s style. Her long-term hairstylist, Chris Appleton, confirmed the inspiration behind the look, posting a photograph on social media with the caption "Super Bowl bangs" and elaborating on the creative process.
Stylist's Insight
Appleton revealed to Vogue magazine that the aesthetic was "inspired by '90s Pammy," describing it as a more undone, lived-in finish compared to their previous collaborations. "I followed her cheekbones for placement," he explained. "Kim and I worked visually, just grabbing hair and pinning it into place. From there, the key element was getting the separation in the bangs." This was not the first time Kardashian had experimented with this style; she previously wore a similar look to the CFDA Awards in 2023.
Hamilton's 90s Affinity
The new look likely delighted Hamilton, 41, who is known for his appreciation of 90s culture. The seven-time world champion arrived at their debut public outing wearing double denim, another nod to the decade. His passion for the era extends to classic 90s cars, particularly Ayrton Senna's 1990 McLaren, and he often wears nostalgic national team tracksuits from that period. Reports suggest his favourite film is the 1993 classic Cool Runnings, further cementing his 90s enthusiasm.
Romantic Developments
The Super Bowl date followed a series of private encounters between the pair, who have been friends for years before their relationship deepened. Prior to the public appearance, the couple enjoyed a romantic weekend getaway at the exclusive Estelle Manor hotel in the Cotswolds, where they shared an intimate dinner and couples massage. They also travelled to Paris, where Kardashian promoted her Nike SKIMS line.
Lip Reading Revelation
A viral clip from the Super Bowl has sparked speculation about the seriousness of their relationship. Lip reading expert Nicola Hickling, founder of LipReader, analysed footage and claimed Hamilton told Kardashian, "No I don't take just any girl to my mom, I mean you're gonna meet someday, she is very excited to see you." According to Hickling, Kardashian appeared to shuffle uncomfortably in her seat and covered her face before responding with a simple "okay."
Body Language Analysis
Body language expert Judi James provided a detailed interpretation of their interaction during the event, describing Kardashian's "hot and cool" flirting technique. "Firstly, there is the pose that registers undivided attention between them, which is a form of non-verbal stroke when you're on a date," James observed. "Kim actually leans back to take in Lewis visually as he speaks and this flattering 'stroke' produces a 'purr' response from him which is visible in the way his facial features soften and he talks through a smile of pleasure."
Flirting Techniques
James noted that Kardashian enhanced the flirtation by allowing "the tip of her tongue appears at the side of her mouth," a gesture typically associated with playful desire. However, she then employed a strategic shift. "But then she seems to switch to a very smart technique of intense interest followed by distraction, suddenly looking away after bathing Lewis in her interested gaze," James explained. "She even brings one hand up to touch her hair and hide her face from him. This hot/cool body language technique is used to capture someone's attention and to get them to coax the signals of interest back again."
James concluded that Kardashian's hand-to-hair gesture resembled a preen, suggesting she views Hamilton as a prestigious partner to showcase proudly at such a public event. The couple were seen joking together during the game between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, enjoying their debut in front of thousands of sporting fans.
