Claudia Winkleman: Style Icon of The Traitors and Beyond

Claudia Winkleman, the charismatic host of BBC's hit show The Traitors, has captivated audiences not only with her witty hosting but also with her undeniably chic style. Her signature look—a glossy, straight bob, often paired with striking outfits—has become a source of fascination for many. This article delves into the secrets behind Winkleman's enviable style, from her haircare routine to her fashion inspirations.

The Glossy, Mirror-Like Hair

Winkleman's incredibly shiny hair is a key element of her look. Her hairstylist, Amy Short, who has worked with Winkleman for over five years, revealed the secrets to achieving this enviable gloss. It's not just about a single product; it's a combination of products and techniques.

Short emphasizes that while Winkleman has naturally beautiful hair, it's not naturally straight. To achieve the iconic straight and shiny look, Short uses a heat protectant and Ghd's platinum+ straighteners, styling the hair in small sections. For the wavy styles sometimes seen on Strictly Come Dancing, Short or her team use the straighteners to create gentle waves, keeping the ends straight and finishing with a smoothing cream or serum. The products frequently used include Color Wow Dream Coat, Color Wow One-Minute Transformation Cream, and Davines Shimmer Spray.

Product Spotlight: Color Wow and Davines

Color Wow's Dream Coat Supernatural Spray, in particular, has received rave reviews for its ability to create serious shine and gloss. Davines Shimmering Mist adds an extra touch of smoothness and separation to the final look. The use of high-quality heat protectants is also emphasized to ensure hair health while styling.

Fashion Inspirations: A Royal and a Singer

Winkleman's fashion choices are equally captivating. She has revealed that her style is heavily influenced by various sources, not just one particular muse. While discussing her The Traitors wardrobe, she mentioned that this season, her style was inspired by a unique combination: Princess Anne and singer Sarah Brightman. This eclectic blend reflects the show's intriguing mix of suspense and drama, with Winkleman's outfits matching the mysterious and elegant atmosphere.

Her Strictly Come Dancing outfits, on the other hand, have previously drawn inspiration from actress Anita Dobson and Greek singer Demis Roussos. This showcases her adaptability in finding inspiration in diverse artistic sources, highlighting her knack for curating a truly unique style.

Beyond the Inspiration: The Winkleman Effect

Winkleman’s style isn't merely about mimicking others; it’s about creating her own unique interpretation. She takes inspiration from diverse sources and blends them to craft a style that is both timeless and relevant. Whether it's the glossy hair or the thoughtfully chosen outfits, Winkleman's impact extends beyond the screen, inspiring viewers to explore their own unique style.

Replacing Graham Norton: A Hilarious Takeover

Beyond her style, Winkleman's personality also shines. She's known for her quick wit and humor, as evidenced by her upcoming temporary takeover of Graham Norton's show. While Graham takes a break for his Australian tour, Winkleman will step in, joking, “I apologize in advance.” This speaks volumes about her self-awareness and playful nature, which further cements her appeal to the audience.

Winkleman’s transition to hosting the iconic chat show isn’t her first foray into replacing Norton. She previously filled in for him on his BBC Radio 2 Saturday morning show in 2021 after his departure. This further showcases her versatility and capacity to handle different types of shows and formats.

The Legacy of The Traitors: A Show of Intrigue

Winkleman’s role in The Traitors has also played a significant role in her rising profile. The show’s unique format, where contestants must navigate deceit and betrayal, has captured the hearts of audiences. Winkleman's adept handling of the show’s intense moments and emotional complexities has earned her praise, contributing to her growing recognition as a beloved television personality.

The success of The Traitors speaks to the show's intriguing premise and Winkleman's ability to connect with viewers. It is a show where contestants attempt to identify the traitors among them. The traitors try to eliminate the faithfuls without detection, while the faithfuls strive to expose and eliminate the traitors. The suspenseful gameplay and the high stakes involved in the prize money (a substantial £120,000) add to the show's compelling narrative. The show's popularity is a testament to Winkleman's ability to host a show of this kind and the show’s unique ability to keep viewers hooked with its ever-evolving twists and turns.

The success of The Traitors, coupled with her upcoming role in replacing Graham Norton, positions Winkleman as a major force in British television. Her sharp wit, impeccable style, and ability to connect with viewers make her a highly sought-after talent. This leaves the future of British television bright, showcasing the emergence of a new prominent host with an established, unique style.