Move over, royal fashion influencers. This winter, a new style queen reigns supreme, and her name is Claudia Winkleman. The presenter's unapologetically eccentric 'castlecore' wardrobe on the hit BBC show The Traitors has sparked a nationwide sartorial shift, with legions of fans emulating her look with jacquard jumpers, kilts, and lug boots.
The Winkleman Knitwear Effect
If there is one style signature that Claudia Winkleman and her stylist, Sinead McKeefry, have perfected, it is undoubtedly statement knitwear. Last year, a khaki sweater with smiley-face elbow patches spawned dozens of imitations, while a dramatic red balloon-sleeve jumper by Mr Mittens sent fashion editors into a frenzy. The skeleton knit she famously wore also redefined Halloween chic.
This series has been no different, with one particular cream jumper drawing audible gasps of admiration from style watchers. For a recent episode, Winkleman selected a luxurious high-neck cream jumper with a dramatic tassel detail, expertly pairing it with her trademark black leggings, sturdy boots, and fingerless gloves.
The Designer Original and the High-Street Saviours
True to Winkleman's luxe tastes, the standout jumper hails from the high-end brand Isabel Marant. However, this style comes with a breathtaking price tag of £1,290, putting it far out of reach for most viewers—unless they happen to win the show's £100,000 prize fund.
Fortunately, in a brilliant turn of events for fashion-loving Brits, the high street has delivered with several remarkably similar shaggy knitwear options that are far kinder to your bank balance.
H&M's Fringed Jumper is a prime contender, available in the same Ecru shade and featuring a near-identical tassel effect. It forgoes the high neck (a potential blessing for those wearing foundation) and is crafted mainly from polyester rather than wool. The real draw is the price: a mere £54.99, or just £44 for H&M members taking advantage of the early Black Friday sale.
Another excellent alternative is the Arrange Pure Wool Loop Fringe Jumper, available via Asos. This option captures the oversized, baggy silhouette of Winkleman's original and is currently discounted to £105 with a Black Friday code.
For those who prefer to shop in person, M&S's Cosy Loopy Jumper is reported to be a spot-on replica of the designer piece. While not available online, at just £45, it is certainly worth hunting down in stores to achieve that très sheep and très chic look without the financial betrayal.
Your Affordable Castlecore Awaits
The phenomenon confirms Claudia Winkleman's powerful influence on British winter fashion. Thanks to these astute high-street interpretations, you no longer need a traitor's cunning or a small fortune to capture her iconic style. This season, looking effortlessly cool and eccentric is accessible to all.
