Watching this season of the Traitors, I found myself analysing every element of the contestants on my screen — much like those participating in the show. What I have found so interesting is that subconsciously those playing allow their opinions of each other to be swayed by their style and appearance. Warning — if you’ve fallen behind on your Traitors watching and are hoping to catch up, read with caution.
For example, Stephen, a Traitor has repeatedly been under fire, and teetering on the brink of banishment many times now, yet somehow he always avoids the votes. But is this down to the way he dresses and presents himself to the other contestants? His light coloured and cottage core aesthetic outfits are bubbly and fun, the armour of ‘Ken-camp’ clothes that he wears makes those around him less likely to suspect him. The same goes for Jessie, as her child-like orange and yellow colour scheme meant people were less likely to listen to her, even when it mattered most. Did they underestimate her because she didn’t present herself in a ‘serious’ way? These initially subconscious factors become more crucial as the series has progressed.
Interestingly, Rachel also seemed to move towards the primary school teacher aesthetic, tricking others into a false sense of faithfulness. But, when she fell out with Harriet and knew an attack was coming her way, she switched up entirely. The dungarees and colourful tops she had usually been seen in were switched out for a sleek up-do, and a deep red off the shoulder jumper. This look was more strategic — she wanted to be taken more seriously as she prepared to defend herself. Having a more professional looking appearance subconsciously tricked the other contestants into listening more to what she had to say and seriously considering her words: and it worked, Rachel stayed in and Harriet (the faithful) was banished.
Finally, even the shows creators seem to have been carefully considering the clothing in the show, dressing Claudia in highlands chic tartan and tweed despite the hot weather. Claudia’s outfits added to the ‘traitors master’ persona she steps into when hosting the show, while maintaining her trademark fake tan, smokey eye, and pale lip that is so quintessentially Claudia .
This show has become a great example of how multifaceted fashion is, and maybe fashion helps to explain the show’s outcome!