Not even royals can escape Traitors mania. While it's yet to be confirmed that the King and Queen are up-to-date on James Acaster's onscreen antics or if Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, are rooting for a Hannah Fry win even after her blunder in last night's episode, what's plain to see is that Kate has picked up on Claudia's castle style.
Arriving in Belfast today, the royal opted for an outfit that Claudia herself would be proud of. Just add a wig, eyeliner and a load of fake tan, and Catherine has nailed it.
The outfit featured a very Traitors-esque kilt-style midi skirt, worn with a ruffled white blouse, and a long black coat. The skirt, by royal-loved designer Emilia Wickstead, especially caught our eye for being reminiscent of the host of The Celebrity Traitors. We all know Claudia loves a bit of tartan. But in fact, the entire ensemble is very Claudia. Might the Princess of Wales be glued to BBC One tonight at 8pm along with the rest of us?
While Claudia probably would have styled the skirt with a chunky knit over the blouse and some heavy boots, the Princess of Wales instead opted to accessorise with a pair of sleek black pumps, a dark green handbag, gold jewellery and an umbrella – because October weather is finally here.
The great thing about both Kate and Claudia's love of a tartan skirt is that it's easily replicable on a non-royal budget. The high street, similarly swept up in the Traitors hype, is chock-a-block with checked midi skirts. Whether you wear it more in the style of Claudia or Kate, a checked skirt is a staple piece that'll work all through autumn/winter, providing a polished swap for your go-to jeans.
So, which checked skirts à la the Princess of Wales and the Queen of the Traitors castle do we recommend picking up now?
First up has to be M&S, who have an extremely wearable checked circle skirt for just £40. The neutral colour palette means this will go with all your knitwear and boots, while the circle skirt cut is super flattering on all.
If you'd like a more traditional kilt feel, Albaray's take in a soft navy and cream is a winner with its double buckle detail. And it's only £99.
And finally, Next has a great checked midi skirt for £35, available in brown or a more eye-catching red tartan.
The Princess of Wales was in Belfast today, along with Prince William, as part of a series of public engagements. They spent the afternoon meeting organisations working to help people experiencing homelessness, and will highlight a pilot scheme in Belfast that aims to end homelessness by setting up young people with secure work.
The royals' day in Belfast also saw the couple visit a converted church called The Commons and meet with deputy first minister Emma Little-Pengelly, Belfast mayor Róis-Máire Donnelly and South Belfast MP Claire Hanna. William and Catherine took the time to stay out in the rain to meet fans, shaking hands and posing for photos.
