Few presenters have managed to turn a TV set into a fashion phenomenon quite like Claudia Winkleman.
With The Traitors, she’s transformed the show’s location – the moody Adross Castle in the Scottish Highlands – into something of a runway, mixing gothic glamour, sharp tailoring and grungey-yet-opulent pieces for a truly idiosyncratic style.
Luxury stylist and style consultant Oriona Robb believes Winkleman’s wardrobe “has become an unexpected cultural style moment, and it’s one we can’t get enough of.”
“It’s sharp, mysterious but at the same time extravagant – and that’s what makes these looks so compelling – the balance of authority and drama,” she explains.
While Winkleman’s stylist for the show, Sinead McKeefry, picks from the rails of Burberry and Saint Laurent, Robb says the good news is that you don’t need a BBC budget to recreate it.
So, as final episode The Celebrity Traitors kicks off, here’s how to bring its energy back into your own wardrobe.
1. Tartan and a knitted vest
The first, and arguably the most casual and wearable of Winkleman’s looks, is this tartan shirt, knitted vest and jeans combo.
It strikes the perfect balance between countryside casual and gothic glamour. It’s relaxed yet cool – a masterclass in dressing down without disappearing.
To replicate this look, Robb says to “look to brands that prioritise cut, fabric weight and minimalism – as these are the three pillars of Claudia’s aesthetic.
“My favourites are COS for sculptural wool coats and demi-goth knitwear, then Arket and Massimo Dutti who do sharp suiting, longline shirts and luxe basics so well.
“I also like & Other Stories for feminine tailoring and structured skirts. High street favourite Zara is also an excellent choice as they have so many statement prints and textures that can work well here.”
Dune Pelano Chunky Leather Pull On Ankle Boots, £149
2. A big collared coat
While McKeefry went to Saint Laurent for Claudia’s khaki coat, big funnel necklines are trending this season – meaning they’re easy to find on the high street.
“Claudia’s coats are the storytelling device in each look with structured shoulders, clean lines and a commanding silhouette [which] instantly elongates [her] frame and creates presence,” Robb explains, perfect for her villainous presenter persona.
Cos Oversized Double-Breasted Wool Long Coat, £269
3. Tartan and knitted jumpers
When Winkleman leans into heritage tartan and chunky knits, she manages to look both timeless and entirely on trend.
There’s something grounding in the combination of weighty textures and strong silhouettes.
“Tailoring is the secret sauce here,” says Robb. “With fabric-heavy looks, the waistline becomes crucial and a subtle nip at the waist or adding structure through darts will take even a high-street skirt into premium territory.
It’s an easy formula: ensure your trousers or skirt has a tailored waist to draw the eye so the heavy knit doesn’t swamp your frame.
SIMMI Miguel Wide Knee High in Grey, £55, Schuh
4. Wellies and wool
One of the most charming Traitors ensembles pairs practicality with smart tailoring.
With structured outerwear and boots sturdy enough for castle cobbles, it’s a perfect example of countryside meets catwalk.
For this look, Robb highlights the power of details. “[Wellington] boots anchor Claudia’s look when paired with a feminine blouse – it’s both powerful and chic.”
Barbour Bede Wellies Ladies, £49.45 (was £74.95), Philip Morris & Son
5. Fair-Isle knit and kilt
The last of Winkleman’s most memorable looks from the series is the Fair Isle-knit layered over a black, kilt-style skirt – a pairing that once again plays with heritage textures and subverts expectations with a grungey nod to current trends.
The classic Fair-Isle brings warmth and character, while the pleated, nearly-military skirt grounds the look in poise and purpose.
Robb identifies this look in particular as the “cheat code” to the Traitors aesthetic.
“Commit to monochrome or deep tonal layering,” she says. “All-black or charcoal instantly give off sophistication, but then you can add depth with textures including wool, cashmere and leather.
1.
Jaeger Pleated Midaxi Skirt, £150, M&S