“ Anyone who knows me has invariably been subject to a spiel about how much
I love Claudia Winkleman. In part, it's because she's so silly, and in part, it's because I'm
a huge fan of everything she presents, from Strictly to The Traitors.
But even more than any of that, it's because I'm obsessed
with everything she wears. I've spent a fortune copying her exact outfits, from her Sister Jane heart cutout dress to a bedazzled Nadine Merabi
blazer that I definitely don't go anywhere fancy enough
to wear.
Since 2005, Claudia has worked with stylist Sinead McKeefry to
perfect her signature style. I'd describe it as soft goth: lots
of black, velvet and chunky knits, with a fair few sequins and prints
(particularly tartan) thrown in. I'm not alone in my
reverence: there are entire Instagram accounts dedicated to tracking
down the presenter's outfits. But while they offer incredibly
useful style inspo, two issues arise repeatedly: Claudia's
clothes are usually hugely expensive or sold out (or both).
So when the Strictly host stepped out in a typically preppy black
velvet mini dress on Sunday, you'd be forgiven for assuming it was by some top-end designer.
Well, you'd be wrong. The mini dress actually came courtesy of
one of our favourite high street brands,
Albaray - and you can pick it up for less than £100.
The dress is made from plush fabric with contrast satin detailing.
The velvet makes it a little festive, perfect for celebratory bashes over the next few months, particularly when paired with white stilettos
à la Claud. But it could be just as easily dressed down with
white trainers or ballet flats and a trench for a
chic office outfit, so you'll certainly get
your wear out of it.
Like all of Albaray's products, it's ethically made using responsible
fabric and sent via a carbon-neutral shipping method, so you can feel good about the dress's eco-credentials as well as
how it looks. It's currently in stock in a few sizes online (and in certain John Lewis concessions) but like most things Claudia wears, it won't stick around long.
Now excuse me while I go and add to cart.
Collar and Cuff Velvet Dress, £99, Albaray ”