UPDATE: The latest series of The Traitors, which concluded on Friday, showcased how contestants’ fashion choices significantly influenced gameplay. Contestants strategically used their outfits to shape perceptions and manipulate interactions, revealing a fascinating layer to this reality TV phenomenon.
As crime writer Harriet noted, her suspicions about contestant Rachel heightened after she donned a striking red dress following a pivotal moment. “She’d gone in looking so sleek and professional… whereas before, she was dressed more in child-friendly yellows,” Harriet shared with BBC Local. This observation underscores a critical point: attire can convey much more than mere style; it can signal intent and character.
Stylist and author Carolyn Mair emphasized the importance of clothing in forming opinions among players. “What we wear says a huge amount about us,” she stated. Many contestants used fashion “very carefully and very well,” effectively turning their clothing into part of their character. Mair described this series as “the most fashionable yet,” with fashion becoming an integral attraction of the show.
Contestants like Stephen captured attention with bold fashion choices, including knitwear and a striking jumpsuit. His outfits were not merely fashion statements; they were tactical moves designed to distract others from his expressive face. In the final episode of The Traitors: Uncloaked, Stephen explained, “I thought if I wore clothes that are a bit flamboyant… maybe they’d just be going ‘oh Stephen you look really great today’ instead of focusing on me being a traitor.”
His choice of a jumpsuit from Palomo Spain—a brand favored by stars like Harry Styles—was a standout moment, described as a “wow piece” by stylist Sarah Thomson. As the game progressed, the outfits worn by contestants like Jade and Matthew also sparked significant discussions online, showcasing their playful yet strategic fashion choices.
Jade’s outfits, including a £430 cardigan and a cherry-patterned design, portrayed her as “young and innocent,” while also serving as a non-verbal power play, according to Mair. Matthew, who aimed to infiltrate the Traitors’ ranks, meticulously planned his wardrobe, stating, “I wanted to be a Traitor, so I did deliberately bring every jumper that I owned.”
Meanwhile, fellow contestant Fiona opted for soft, flowery attire to cultivate a nurturing persona that would gain the trust of her peers. Mair highlighted that such choices are often rooted in the psychological perceptions of clothing, with mothers often viewed as trustworthy figures.
The stakes of clothing choices became even more evident during intense moments in the game. When Harriet attempted to accuse Rachel of betrayal, both women wore red, a color associated with confidence and assertiveness. “Red is a real confident ‘I mean business’ color,” Thomson pointed out, suggesting that Rachel’s decision to dress beautifully for what she thought could be her last moment was a strategic move.
Ultimately, winners like Leanne recognized the power of clothing in shaping perceptions. To conceal her military background, she chose a vibrant pink suit, believing it would mislead others into underestimating her. Her insight highlights how contestants navigate their identities through fashion.
Contestants on The Traitors bring their own clothes and style their outfits themselves, adding a personal touch to their gameplay. Some, like Charlotte, faced challenges with their wardrobe choices, admitting, “I thought I’d be out day two… I had nothing to wear.” While stylists offer some assistance, contestants often rely on their creativity to make impactful fashion statements.
As viewers witness this compelling interplay of fashion and strategy, it becomes clear that attire on The Traitors is more than just clothing—it’s a vital part of the game. With each series, fashion evolves into a powerful tool for influence, intrigue, and survival in the high-stakes world of reality television.
Stay tuned for more updates on how fashion continues to shape the dynamics of reality TV!
