In the shadowy corridors and fire-lit roundtables of Ardross Castle, a sartorial showdown is brewing, and it’s one nobody saw coming. For two seasons, The Traitors UK has been dominated by one undisputed fashion monarch: Claudia Winkleman. Her signature look—a masterclass in “Highland chic”—has spawned a thousand articles and shopping guides with its chunky cable-knit sweaters, heritage tweeds, and iconic fingerless gloves.
But a new contender has entered the castle, challenging the established order. And he’s not a presenter; he’s a player. We’re talking, of course, about the one and only Jonathan Ross.
The Castle’s New Sartorial Star
When the celebrity cast was announced, few would have pegged the veteran chat show host as a style icon. A wit? Absolutely. A cunning player? Potentially. But a fashion heavyweight capable of stealing the spotlight from the queen of fringe herself? It seemed unlikely. Yet, episode by episode, Jonathan Ross has curated a look so distinct, so audacious, and so utterly him that he has become the show’s most talked-about style star.
While Claudia’s style is a carefully constructed homage to the Scottish setting, Jonathan’s is a glorious explosion of gothic-dandy eccentricity. He stalks the castle grounds not in practical wellies, but in dramatic, almost piratical boots. He doesn’t wear simple jumpers; he dons long, flowing coats that billow behind him like a character from a Victorian novel. His look is punctuated by a magpie’s collection of accessories: chunky statement rings on every finger, intricate brooches, and a collection of hats that range from steampunk to art-school chic.
Authenticity in a Game of Deception
So, what makes the Jonathan Ross Traitors style so compelling? Firstly, it’s undeniably authentic. This isn’t a costume put on for the cameras; this is Jonathan Ross’s genuine aesthetic, amplified by the gothic grandeur of the castle. Viewers can sense that these are his own clothes, his own rings, his own flamboyant expression of self. In a game built on deception, his unwavering commitment to his personal style feels like one of the few honest things in the room.
Fashion as a Form of Gameplay
Secondly, his fashion is an extension of his gameplay. Ross is playing the role of the eccentric, slightly mischievous elder statesman. His theatrical outfits enhance this persona, making him a captivating figure both at the roundtable and during the missions. He’s not just wearing clothes; he’s wearing his character. It’s a masterclass in personal branding, a visual cue that he’s not to be underestimated.
The Unapologetic Joy of Wossy’s Wardrobe
Finally, there’s the sheer joy of it. In a world of fast fashion and homogenised trends, here is a 63-year-old man embracing a bold, flamboyant, and unapologetic style. He’s proof that fashion has no age limit and that the most stylish thing you can wear is confidence. The online chatter is a testament to his impact. Every night, social media is flooded with comments dissecting Wossy’s latest look, from his “vampire-hunter-on-holiday” coat to a particularly memorable knitted poncho.
This isn’t to say Claudia has been dethroned. She remains the impeccable, high-fashion heart of the show. But Jonathan Ross has proven that style isn’t a monopoly. He has carved out his own sartorial kingdom within the castle walls, one built on dark romanticism and delightful chaos. The Traitors might be a game of paranoia and betrayal, but thanks to its unexpected new style hero, it’s also become the most fashionable show on television.
