The Traitors is all anyone has been able to talk about this January. But as well as devilish antics and plenty of paranoia, Claudia Winkleman's wardrobe is the undisputed star of the show. We've already dissected all the outfits, cataloguing every item she's worn from that polka dot mini dress (The Vampire's Wife) to that olive green scarf coat (Zara) with a forensic attention to detail that feels fitting for a gameshow that has gripped the nation with its penchant for the theatrical. But, avoiding spoilers, the real winner of the show appears to be leggings.
Winkleman has single-handedly made a case for the humble legging, having worn several pairs between both series - sourced by her stylist, Sinead McKeefry. She has paired them with blazers, frill-collar blouses, cosy knitwear and cowboy boots, proving that despite their loungewear connotations, leggings can, in fact, scrub up rather well. From a black Spanx pair to WARDROBE.NYC's green zip-detail leggings, the exact styles Winkleman has worn have sold out across the internet.
Why has such a staple item provoked such a reaction, you might ask. Well, it's January, so clearly anything comfortable is incredibly appealing. An elasticated waistband, as we all found out in lockdown, can often provide the sartorial equivalent of a comfort blanket. They also make outfits easier, streamlining your morning routine and taking the faff out of getting dressed.
Clearly, it's all in the styling. So if you'd rather not look like you're about to go on a hack, you can always stick to what you know but incorporate some of the tips we've learnt from The Traitors. Firstly, style your slim-fit bottoms with something slightly oversized on top to keep everything in proportion (a cropped jacket with tight trousers might look like everything's been shrunk in the wash, not a good look). Secondly, a sturdy boot will make you look like less of a Sloane Ranger (ballet pumps or loafers are a no-go area with leggings). Apply a generous smudge of black eyeliner and you're good to go.
SHOP: The Best Leggings
www.wardrobe.nyc
Claudia Winkleman's exact leggings are available to buy from the brand's website. They're available in a variety of different colours and can be dressed up or down depending on your plans.
www.net-a-porter.com
McKeefry sourced a variety of Spanx leggings for Winkleman's wardrobe. From stretch jersey to velvet, she wears them with everything from blazers to knits. This pair is still available in all sizes.
www.net-a-porter.com
The cheat's guide to leather trousers, these leggings have spliced hems and are made from a faux stretch-leather that gives a comfy and flattering fit. Pair with an oversized roll neck knit.
www.marksandspencer.com
Even M&S has seen sales of leggings increase since The Traitors returned to our screens. This cord pair will add texture to your outfit – tuck into boots and add a blazer for the easiest take on smart casual.
www.wearcommando.com
Winkleman is also a fan of Commando's leggings and wears this velvet pair in the show. They have great stretch but, thanks to the velvet finish, feel a bit smarter than your average cotton-jersey style.
Natalie Hammond is Grazia’s Senior Fashion News Editor. She loves winter, hates summer and can often be found writing about the weather (and what on earth to wear).
Hannah Banks-Walker is Grazia's head of fashion commerce. She has previously written for the likes of Harper's Bazaar, The FT, Glamour, Stylist, The Telegraph, Red, i-D and The Pool on everything from fashion to curly hair (hi!) to the patriarchy. Not necessarily in that order. Find her on Instagram and Twitter. But please don't look for her MySpace profile, which until now was the last time she wrote about herself in the third person.