British television has long been defined by its iconic double-acts, from Morecambe and Wise to Ant and Dec. In 2014, the landscape was forever changed when Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman stepped in to co-host Strictly Come Dancing, making history as prime-time TV's first female presenting duo.
A Fashion Double-Act For The Ages
While viewers adored their on-screen camaraderie, the nation was equally captivated by their sartorial choices. Week after week, they delivered a masterclass in contrasting glamour, becoming as integral to the show's DNA as the coveted Glitterball Trophy. Their joint wardrobe for the series was valued at over £20,000, transforming fashion inspiration from an unexpected side-effect into a highly lucrative unofficial role.
If Tess represented polished, aspirational glamour with shimmering sequin gowns and high-octane colours, Claudia was the edgy risk-taker, equally at home in leggings and an oversized blazer. They were fashion's yin and yang, proving there is no single route to looking spectacular on screen.
Supporting British Style and High Street Heroes
United in their championing of British fashion, the duo frequently wore mid-market eveningwear from brands like Reiss, Karen Millen, Nadine Merabi and Self Portrait. They also made high fashion accessible, regularly featuring high-street pieces. Claudia's most affordable look was a £22.99 leopard-print dress from H&M, while Tess wore an £89 one-shoulder dress by Karen Millen.
Their style influence translated directly into commercial success. Since the show began 21 years ago, Tess has secured fashion deals with Marks & Spencer, La Senza and Pandora, alongside beauty ambassadorships. Claudia also has an M&S deal, and her signature black hair led to a long-running partnership with Head & Shoulders.
Redefining The Prime-Time Rulebook
Claudia, in particular, rewrote the rules for female presenters. From her debut as a full-time host in 2014, she defied convention with her heavy kohl-rimmed eyes and an obstinately long fringe, favouring a palette of black, red, white and metallics. This stood in refreshing contrast to Tess's consistently polished, willowy blonde archetype.
Their fashion dialogue offered viewers a comprehensive take on trends. Those who found Tess's glamour too bold could take notes from Claudia's masculine tailoring and muted tones, while those wary of Claudia's eclectic edge could embrace Tess's more traditional, 'twirl-ready' elegance.
For the series finale, their distinct styles were on full display: Tess was quintessentially herself in a £758 metallic gold gown by Bronx and Banco, while Claudia stayed true to her ethos in black leggings and a customised £355 Kooples blazer emblazoned with 'Keep Dancing'. In a knowing role reversal for the Christmas Special, Tess wore the trousers in a sequinned suit by Nadine Merabi, while Claudia opted for a vintage cream midi dress.
In an industry obsessed with fleeting trends, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman remained authentically themselves. They didn't compete; they complemented. While only one celebrity can lift the Glitterball each series, in the world of fashion, both presenters have unequivocally earned their trophy.
