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6 Ways to Get Claudia Winkleman’s Traitors Look – By Her Stylist
Want to replicate Claudia Winkleman’s signature gothic-glam style from The Traitors? Her stylist shares six key fashion tips to nail the look. From vampy tailoring to statement accessories, this guide breaks down the wardrobe secrets behind the UK’s most talked-about TV host.
Claudia Winkleman’s gothic-glam wardrobe on The Traitors isn’t just fashion—it’s a cultural moment. From burnished leather field boots to dramatic velvet tailoring, the look coined as “Highland goth” has redefined how British audiences engage with on-screen style. The creative force behind this rising trend? Celebrity stylist Sinead McKeefry, whose moody, heritage-inspired vision is captivating both fashion editors and everyday viewers alike.
While major fashion weeks and red-carpet events often dictate seasonal trends, it’s Winkleman—host of The Traitors, The Piano, Strictly Come Dancing, and soon-to-be guest presenter on The Graham Norton Show—who’s currently dominating search queries and inspiring shopping carts across the UK. According to Google Trends, spikes in fashion-related searches for Winkleman’s outfits correlate directly with The Traitors’ weekly episodes.
“Claudia Winkleman coat Traitors” saw a 140% increase after the season three premiere, reflecting her influence beyond traditional celebrity fashion circles.
Styling Direction Driven by a Pair of Purdey Field Boots
McKeefry’s creative process began with a single item: a pair of burnished dark-brown leather field boots by heritage outfitter Purdey. Featuring double straps, buckles, and tassel-accented knee-high socks, the boots evoked British sporting tradition blended with rugged romance.
Sinead McKeefry chose the boots → to build Claudia’s season three wardrobe → around the rich tones and textures of traditional British countryside fashion.
“I saw that boot in Purdey’s catalogue and immediately felt inspired,” McKeefry said. “It had everything—buckles, laces, wool, leather. It was Highland aristocracy meets rebel spirit.”
Style References: Princess Anne, Fagin, and Amanda Harlech
McKeefry didn’t stop at boots. The Highland goth aesthetic draws from a blend of high-society heritage and literary grit:
- Princess Anne’s equestrian style – Classic, utilitarian elegance
- Fagin from Dickens’ Oliver Twist – Greatcoats, fingerless gloves, and urban drama
- Amanda Harlech, muse to Karl Lagerfeld – “Old money” gothic romance
These influences manifest in tactile, dramatic pairings like tweed and lace, velvet with flute-sleeved shirts, and floor-length gowns beneath minimal knitwear—a visual tension between severity and softness.
Winkleman’s Wardrobe Is Driving Real-Time Viewer Engagement
Each episode of The Traitors showcases looks that feel purposefully cinematic, yet entirely wearable. Whether it’s a patchwork Loewe jacket or a tartan-lined cashmere cloak, McKeefry receives direct viewer feedback via Instagram DMs.
message McKeefry → about specific outfit details → they want to replicate in real life.
When a trailing, buckled-back jacket appeared on screen, the most common viewer response was: “How’s she going to sit down in that?” McKeefry laughs: “That’s the magic. It looks classic from the front and wild from the back.”
Stylist Profile: Sinead McKeefry’s Influence Extends Beyond Winkleman
A Central Saint Martins-trained designer, McKeefry began her career at The Face before styling high-profile personalities like Fearne Cotton, Stacey Dooley, and Rose Ayling-Ellis. Her work with Winkleman—particularly on The Traitors and recent M&S campaigns—has elevated her status as one of the most influential behind-the-scenes tastemakers in British television fashion.
McKeefry styles Winkleman → to express gothic heritage glamour → that resonates with both high fashion editors and everyday viewers.
Why Is Everyone Talking About Claudia Winkleman’s Traitors Style?
“It’s the most stylish game of betrayal on TV — and Claudia is its fashion queen.”
From her inky black fringe to her dramatic cloaks, Claudia Winkleman’s wardrobe on The Traitors has become as iconic as the show itself. With every new season, viewers aren’t just guessing who’s loyal or a traitor—they’re asking: Where can I get that coat?
Now, thanks to her long-time stylist Sinead McKeefry, we have the insider fashion formula. In this article, we’ll break down six key elements of Claudia’s look, how to recreate them affordably, and why this bold, dark aesthetic is resonating with audiences.
1. Start with a Statement Coat
The Hero Piece: Floor-Length Wool or Velvet
Claudia’s on-screen persona is defined by her dramatic, full-length coats. Think tailored, military silhouettes or luxe velvet cloaks—often custom-made or sourced from niche British designers.
Try This:
- Longline black wool coat from COS or & Other Stories
- Velvet trench from The Vampire’s Wife or vintage stores
- Add a structured shoulder for cinematic drama
“The coat is always the first piece we choose,” says McKeefry. “It sets the tone—powerful, enigmatic, cinematic.”
2. Go Monochrome (and Mostly Black)
A Gothic Palette That Commands Attention
Claudia rarely strays from black, and when she does, it’s deep burgundy, forest green, or navy. The uniformity makes each outfit feel curated and intimidating—perfect for a psychological game show.
Wardrobe Staples:
- Black silk shirts
- Tapered trousers
- Tailored blazers with satin lapels
Fun fact: Black outfits increase perceptions of authority and sophistication, according to a study in Color Research & Application.
3. Embrace the Fringe – But Keep It Sleek
The Hair Is Half the Look
Claudia’s thick, glossy fringe and poker-straight hair aren’t just signature—they’re part of her overall styling narrative. Together with her wardrobe, they create a modern Morticia Addams vibe that’s dark but polished.
Hair Styling Tips:
- Use a heat-protectant spray and flat iron
- Opt for a heavy fringe cut every 6 weeks
- Keep shine high with serum or gloss spray
4. Keep Makeup Bold, But Minimal
Think One Statement Feature – Usually the Eye
Winkleman’s beauty approach echoes her fashion: focused and bold. Her heavy black eyeliner and kohl-smudged eyes do the talking, while the rest of her face stays natural.
Essentials for the Look:
- Black kohl pencil (try Charlotte Tilbury or Rimmel)
- Soft matte foundation
- Nude lips or light balm
“Smudged eyeliner, always. It’s not about perfection, it’s about drama,” says McKeefry.
5. Prioritize Fabrics with Texture and Depth
Velvet, Wool, Leather – Never Flat or Cheap
Claudia’s outfits are tactile. Texture creates visual interest, especially in an all-black ensemble. Whether it’s a satin lapel, crushed velvet dress, or leather boots, fabric choices elevate the look.
Stylist-Approved Materials:
- Crushed velvet suits
- Shearling-lined cloaks
- Polished patent ankle boots
6. Add Understated Accessories – Let the Clothes Speak
Minimalism Wins – No Logos or Distractions
Rather than cluttering outfits with jewellery or logos, Claudia’s look relies on clean lines and subtle detail. If she wears jewellery, it’s minimal and vintage-inspired—maybe a silver ring or dark stone pendant.
Accessory Ideas:
- Leather gloves
- Minimalist rings
- Wool fedora or structured hat (rare but iconic)
Why Claudia’s Look Resonates in 2025 Fashion
Claudia’s Traitors wardrobe reflects several key 2025 fashion trends:
- Dark Feminine Energy: Powerful yet mysterious styling
- TV-to-TikTok Influence: #ClaudiaWinklemanStyle hits millions of views
- Wearable Gothic: No longer niche, but high-fashion relevant
According to Lyst’s 2024 Fashion Report, searches for “gothic tailoring” rose 52% YoY, much of which is credited to Winkleman’s influence.
FAQs
1. Where can I buy Claudia Winkleman’s coats from The Traitors?
Try COS, The Vampire’s Wife, or Me+Em for similar styles with dramatic tailoring.
2. How do I recreate her black eyeliner look?
Use a soft kohl pencil and smudge it with a brush—Charlotte Tilbury’s Rock ‘N’ Kohl is a stylist favorite.
3. What hair products keep her fringe sleek?
A ceramic flat iron, shine serum (like Color Wow), and regular fringe trims maintain the style.
4. Is Claudia’s look wearable for everyday?
Yes! Swap the floor-length coat for a tailored black blazer, and you’ve got a toned-down version.
5. What colors define Claudia’s Traitors style?
Mostly black, with accents of midnight blue, deep green, and oxblood red.
6. Who is Claudia Winkleman’s stylist?
Her long-time stylist is Sinead McKeefry, known for curating her unique, gothic-glam wardrobe.
Conclusion
Every outfit Claudia Winkleman wears on The Traitors is a carefully crafted armor of charisma, mystery, and modern power dressing. With guidance from stylist Sinead McKeefry, her look fuses drama with wearability, becoming one of TV’s most emulated styles.
If you’re ready to channel her iconic gothic-glam energy, these six styling rules are your blueprint. Whether you’re plotting alliances or just heading out for dinner, Claudia’s fashion is always a power move.
