UPDATE: The latest series of reality show The Traitors has captivated audiences not just with its suspenseful gameplay, but also with the contestants’ strategic use of fashion to influence perceptions and outcomes. Contestants have revealed how their clothing choices impacted their gameplay, leading to bold statements and emotional connections among viewers.
In an exclusive interview, crime writer Harriet expressed her skepticism about fellow contestant Rachel until she saw her don a striking red dress following a key elimination moment. “She looked so sleek and professional… it was a major shift from her previous child-friendly attire,” Harriet told BBC Local.
Fashion psychologist Carolyn Mair emphasized the importance of style in the game, stating, “What we wear says a huge amount about us.” The most recent series, which concluded on October 20, 2023, has been dubbed “the most fashionable yet,” with contestants leveraging their wardrobe to enhance their personas and manipulate the opinions of others.
Contestants like Stephen and Jade showcased memorable outfits that sparked significant social media buzz. Stephen’s choice of a colorful jumpsuit and knitwear, designed to draw attention away from his expressions, was part of a calculated strategy. “I thought if I wore flamboyant clothes, they’d focus on that instead of thinking ‘you’re a traitor,'” he revealed during the final episode of The Traitors: Uncloaked.
Jade’s playful outfits, including a £430 Hope Macaulay cardigan, were crafted to project an image of innocence, making her appear non-threatening. Mair noted, “Even quieter contestants like Jade used fashion as a power play, employing color and texture to assert themselves.”
The emotional weight of clothing choices was evident in tense moments. During a dramatic roundtable, Harriet and Rachel both wore red, a color associated with confidence. Matthew, another contestant, later reflected on this moment, acknowledging that Rachel’s extravagant attire at the time was a “telltale sign” of her self-assurance.
The strategic use of outfits continued with other contestants. Rachel’s £350 pink and red cardigan was designed to maintain her vibrant image. Meanwhile, secret Traitor Fiona opted for softer, more nurturing attire, which Mair noted helped her gain trust among the others.
As the series progressed, winners and contestants alike recognized the psychological impact of their clothing. Series three winner Leanne strategically chose a bright pink suit to create a perception of being “girly and ditsy,” which effectively masked her true competitive edge.
Contestants had to curate their wardrobes carefully, with some even sending photos of their planned outfits to the production team beforehand. Charlotte, a contestant from the third series, explained that she was given minimal guidance on attire, leading her to believe she would be eliminated early. “I didn’t pack enough clothes,” she admitted, reflecting on her frequent choice of dungarees, which she likened to a “children’s TV presenter.”
The contestants’ personal styles extended into their makeup and accessories, with Jessie and Jade meticulously coordinating their looks. However, Charlotte noted that contestants were responsible for their own hair and makeup, leading to some unconventional choices in the heat of competition.
The intersection of fashion and gameplay on The Traitors has not only entertained viewers but has also sparked discussions about the influence of appearance in competitive scenarios. As audiences analyze these strategic wardrobe decisions, it’s clear that fashion has become an integral part of the narrative, elevating the drama and intrigue of the show.
As the conversation unfolds, fans are left wondering what fashion strategies contestants will employ in future seasons. Stay tuned for more updates on this captivating blend of strategy and style.
