As the chilling intrigue of The Traitors returns to Scottish screens for its January 2026 series, host Claudia Winkleman's impeccable style is once again under the spotlight. This season, however, fans have been quick to identify a recurring and surprisingly affordable hero piece from her wardrobe.
The High Street Secret Behind the Glamour
Amidst the dramatic roundtables and tense challenges, a sleek polo neck Claudia has worn in past seasons has emerged as a key item. Contrary to assumptions of high-end designer wear, the essential layer is a £45 merino wool high-neck top from high street favourite COS. Available in several shades, its slim and flattering fit makes it the perfect foundational layer for battling the elements during filming.
The confirmation came directly from Claudia's stylist, Sinead McKeefry, who shared the item on her Instagram Stories this week, sending eager viewers into a shopping frenzy. Sinead is renowned for blending accessible pieces with unique finds from British brands, a formula that has made The Traitors fashion almost as compelling as the gameplay.
Why Merino Wool is a Winter Wardrobe Winner
The choice of material is no accident. Merino wool provides exceptional warmth due to its natural crimp, which creates insulating air pockets. Crucially, it is also breathable, moisture-wicking, and excellent at temperature regulation. This makes it an ideal fabric for fluctuating conditions, whether on a misty Scottish estate or in overheated indoor settings.
This versatile knit is set to be a piece viewers will covet for their own chilly winter mornings for years to come, offering luxury-level comfort without the designer price tag.
More Affordable Gems from Claudia's 2026 Wardrobe
While the COS top is a standout, it's not the only accessible fashion note from the new series. For the opening episode, Claudia opted for a sophisticated velvet burgundy blazer from Reiss, currently on sale for £138 and nearly sold out.
She paired it with a pastel pink tie-neck blouse from LK Bennett, which features delicate pearl button closures. Crafted from soft viscose and available in sizes 6 to 20, this piece adds a touch of refined elegance to her presenting look.
Claudia Winkleman's continued ability to mix high street staples with more investment pieces proves that style and substance can go hand-in-hand, both on and off the screen of one of the UK's most-watched shows.
