There’s never been a presenter more suited to a role than Claudia Winkleman is to The Traitors.
Seemingly besotted by the drama, the presenter, known for her iconic fringe, smudged eyeliner and bronzed complexion, elevates the theatre of the nation’s new favourite reality series at every chance she gets. And we mustn’t underestimate the role that Winkelman’s wacky wardrobe has in adding to such showmanship.
An aesthetic one might describe as Gothic Scot with a feminine, Sherlockian twist – Claudia Winkleman is often clad in tartan and tulle with expertly oversized knits, leather gloves and cape coats to boot. Sinead McKeefry is the mastermind behind Winkleman’s (oft-controversial) ensembles, and according to her Instagram, Claudia’s latest viral moment is all thanks to a pair of tartan McQueen trews.
Though certainly not the first time that McKeefry has dressed the presenter in a tartan ensemble for the show, the punk-inspired take on the traditional Scottish look has sartorial enthusiasts reminiscing about the style of 80s counterculture, and dreaming up ways of reworking it to suit contemporary style.
The exact pair of trousers by Alexander McQueen worn by Winkleman are no longer available, but there are plenty of alternative styles in similar colourways available across the board in a range of tailored styles – including wide-leg, slim, tapered, high-waisted and more. Though often paired with a simple black turtleneck, I encourage you to get creative with your tartan. Think about clashing patterns, flouncy pirate shirts and cosy sweater vests that add a darkly academic feel.
Keep scrolling for a curated edit of the best tartan trousers on the market right now.
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McQueen Blue Wool Tartan Tailored Trousers
If you’re willing to drop a cool £850, there’s no better pair to invest in than these tailored ones from McQueen – for the fashion house has been pioneering a penchant for tartan since the 90s. The very same that Winkleman wore, just in a different colourway.
Buy now £850.00, Harrods
Burberry Check Wool Blend Tailored Trousers
Tailored to perfection, Burberry’s poppy red tartan trousers are set to be the reigning star of your winter wardrobe for years to come. They’re slim fit with a concealed closure and feature back welt pockets.
Buy now £890.00, Burberry
House of Bruar Ladies Classic Plaid Trousers
For true Scottish style, look no further than House of Bruar. One of the brand’s most popular styles, these tapered trousers feature a single pleat and are available in a variety of tartans – though the red is a classic.
Buy now £139.95, House of Bruar
Boden Pleated Wool Culottes
Warm and woollen, these pleated culottes by Boden are set to be a winter staple whether you’re up in the Highlands or trotting about the city. Punk style meets heritage tailoring.
Buy now £159.00, Boden
Monsoon x Sarah Corbett-Winder Tartan Suit Trousers Yellow
Another year, another Sarah Corbett-Winder collaboration for Monsoon. These daring check trousers have a wide-leg silhouette, a velvet waistband and sparkling button detail. Perfect for playing with texture and patterns this season.
Buy now £80.00, Monsoon
H&M Wide Tailored Trousers
For an office-appropriate yet fashion-forward approach to checked trousers, look no further than this extra wide-leg pair from H&M – realised in an en vogue mocha brown hue.
Buy now £29.99, H&M
SUNDAYFRUITMARKET Sunday Check Trousers
When traditional tartan meets comfortable casual wear, the result is these ultra-comfortable trousers from South Korean brand SUNDAYFRUITMARKET. Made from 100 per cent cotton with a drawstring waist, they offer the comfort of pyjamas with a stylish twist.
Buy now £99.00, End
Pink City Prints Midnight Tartan Romy Trousers
Complete with a subtle flare, these trousers by Pink City Prints are hand-loomed and feature a stylish, thick rolled-up cuff. Pair with the matching Simone jacket for a full tartan ensemble.
, Pink City Prints
We The Free Cheers Pants
A nod to Ted Danson’s frequently plaid-clad character from Cheers? Perhaps. This endlessly flattering pair of mid-rise, straight-leg checked trousers from Free People is finished in a bold pink and green colourway.
Buy now £140.00, Free People
