Beyond the nightly drama of backstabbing and banishments, BBC's hit show The Traitors has become an unexpected source of iconic fashion. While host Claudia Winkleman's gothic Highlands-chic is a standout, experts now reveal that the contestants' wardrobes are a key part of their psychological gameplay.
Clothing as a Strategic Weapon
Speaking to the Daily Mail, stylist Lisa Talbot explained that the outfits on the show are far more than just protection against the Scottish chill. 'They’re part of the psychological play,' she stated. 'Whether consciously or not, each contestant is telling a story through what they wear, shaping how others perceive them long before a single word is spoken.'
Clothing expert Rochelle White agreed, noting that a player's look offers direct insight into how they wish to be seen. She highlighted that in a game built on perception and misdirection, fashion becomes a critical strategic tool. Some dress to blend in, others to stand out, and a few use their style to actively control the narrative around them.
Decoding the Contestants' Sartorial Moves
Traitor Stephen, the Cyber Security Consultant, presents a deliberately curated image. Rochelle described his look as 'well constructed', featuring cropped jackets, high-waisted trousers, and fitted knits. Lisa added that his consistently polished silhouette suggests control, caution, and a desire to appear composed. His style aims to project emotional intelligence and authority while remaining accessible.
Faithful Jade, the PhD student, uses fashion as a form of quiet expression. Lisa observed that while softly spoken, her wardrobe is bold, experimenting with colour and playful, fashion-forward pieces. This visual confidence can act as a clever distraction, shifting focus from her behaviour to her appearance and making her harder to read.
Traitor Rachel, a head of communications, opts for a summery, approachable style with light layers and soft fabrics. This creates a friendly, open image that can be powerful in a trust-based game. Experts suggest this could be a tactic to be underestimated, allowing her to gain social power.
Faithful Jack, the personal trainer, leans into patterns and prints for a modern preppy look. His style is curated but not loud, suggesting creativity and confidence without being overpowering. This positioning makes him memorable but not threatening, a potentially smart move in a game of suspicion.
Faithful Jessie makes the boldest statements with head-to-toe bright colours. This projects confidence and openness but carries a risk. Lisa warned it could be seen as confrontational or mark her as someone who loves attention, potentially making her a scapegoat.
Faithful Harriet, the barrister-turned-crime writer, favours timeless pieces often accented with a statement scarf. Her style suggests intelligence, authority, and self-assuredness without being flashy, presenting someone who knows exactly who she is.
Former faithful Amanda, the retired police detective, prioritised functionality with layers and natural colours. Rochelle believed this outdoorsy, honest aesthetic made her appear dependable and less manipulative, usefully lowering the guards of other players before her banishment.
The Psychology Behind the Wardrobe
The overarching theme from the experts is that nothing on The Traitors is accidental, including clothing choices. Neutral palettes and understated styling can signal a desire to blend in and be seen as reliable. Conversely, bold colours and patterns can be used to disarm others or project a specific persona.
As Lisa Talbot concluded, in this high-stakes environment, every sartorial choice is a calculated move. A contestant's outfit is not just their armour against the elements, but a key piece of armour in the battle of wits, perception, and survival playing out in the Scottish castle.
