UPDATE: As the latest series of The Traitors concluded on Friday, a surge of interest in contestants’ fashion choices has captured the attention of fans and experts alike. Contestants are not just playing a game of strategy; their outfits reveal a deeper layer of psychological tactics impacting viewer perception and interactions.
According to crime writer Harriet, a pivotal moment in the show occurred when she noticed contestant Rachel wearing a striking red dress. “She’d gone in looking so sleek and professional… whereas before, she was dressed more in child-friendly colors,” Harriet remarked to BBC Local. The fashion choices are not merely aesthetic; they serve as crucial elements in the social dynamics of the game.
Psychologist and stylist Carolyn Mair emphasizes that “what we wear says a huge amount about us.” Contestants on this season, touted as the “most fashionable yet,” utilized their wardrobes as strategic tools. The extravagant gothic looks of host Claudia Winkleman and standout outfits from contestants like Stephen and Jade went viral, highlighting the intersection of reality TV and fashion culture.
In particular, Stephen’s bold fashion statements, including a colorful jumpsuit and knitwear, were designed to make him “seen” and “open.” He explained in the finale, “I thought if I wore clothes that are a bit flamboyant and loud then maybe they’d just be going ‘oh Stephen you look really great today.’” This tactic aimed to divert attention from his nervousness and possible guilt, showcasing how critical clothing can be in shaping interactions within the game.
Stylist Sarah Thomson noted that Stephen’s outfits created an approachable image, making him appear “confident” and encouraging others to relax around him. The jumpsuit, designed by Palomo Spain, has been worn by celebrities like Harry Styles and Beyoncé, adding an extra layer of allure to Stephen’s fashion choices.
Contestants like Jade strategically wore items such as a £430 Hope Macaulay cardigan, which presented her as “young and innocent.” Despite being among the quieter personalities, her wardrobe choices communicated power and seriousness without overtly aggressive tactics.
Meanwhile, Rachel’s vibrant knitwear in the finale, including a £350 cardigan, further emphasized the show’s theme that clothing can signify intent and emotional states. Fellow contestant Matthew reflected on how Rachel’s fashion choices were “absolutely fabulous,” suggesting they may have been an attempt to project confidence in a high-stakes situation.
The psychology of clothing was also evident in Fiona’s choice of “soft, flowery” attire, designed to evoke trust and safety. Mair explains that such choices align with societal perceptions of maternal figures as nurturing and trustworthy, enhancing her gameplay by making others more inclined to believe her.
Throughout the series, contestants made conscious decisions about their outfits, with many acknowledging that clothing can greatly influence the game’s social landscape. Leanne, the series winner, cleverly donned a bright pink suit to mask her military background, manipulating perceptions and expectations.
As the series wraps up, contestants have shared their experiences of dressing for both comfort and strategy, with some even theming their outfits around Cluedo characters for fun. This personal touch allowed for a sense of control in an otherwise unpredictable environment.
The fashion stakes are high on reality TV, and as stylists continue to shape contestants’ images, the impact of these choices on audience engagement and viewer perception is undeniable. With the series finale now aired, fans are eager to dissect the implications of fashion in the game as they prepare for the next season of The Traitors.
Stay tuned for more updates as fashion trends and psychological strategies continue to evolve in future seasons!
