The Traitors effect: How Stephen Libby’s personal style sparked a surge in men seeking fashion advice
Following his appearance on the hit reality series, Libby reveals how his vintage-inspired aesthetic, forged through budget constraints and early self-expression, has prompted a wave of social media inquiries from men looking for style guidance.
Fashion columnist Stephen Libby has detailed his personal style evolution in a recent column for The Guardian, tracing his sartorial journey from childhood on the Isle of Lewis to his university years in Glasgow. Libby notes that his appearance on the reality television programme The Traitors, where he wore items from his own wardrobe without a styling budget, has triggered a significant surge in social media messages from men seeking fashion advice.
Libby’s interest in fashion began in primary school, where he realised he was distinct from other boys. He recalls experimenting with clothing, turning up hems, and feeling a strong connection to the styles worn by girls in his class. One vivid memory involves a trip to Inverness to shop at Topman, where he purchased a grey and black striped cardigan. Wearing the garment to school resulted in bullying, leaving him disheartened by the distress his love for fashion caused at the time.
By the age of 16 or 17, Libby was purchasing skinny jeans in secret, hiding them from his parents and changing into them after leaving home. He later attended the University of Glasgow at age 18, where he discovered vintage clothing. Driven by budget constraints and a desire for colour and drama over the flat, neutral tones of high-street fashion, he began seeking out vintage Hawaiian shirts, dagger-collar shirts, and high-waisted trousers with a flare.
Although Libby did not consider his look on The Traitors groundbreaking, he observes that the bar for men’s fashion on television is often low. His appearance in a chunky mint green jumper and high-waisted jeans was perceived by many as a revelation. He emphasises that his goal was never to inspire a specific trend, but to present the truest representation of himself, yet the response has been overwhelming.
In response to the numerous messages he has received, Libby has announced a forthcoming three-part column series. The upcoming pieces will cover specific topics including tailoring, wedding dressing, and jumpsuits. The current column also highlights specific items from his wardrobe, including a knitted top from Sweet Marianne on Depop, jeans from ELV Denim, a necklace from Dower & Hall, and boots from Phix.