With Britain’s Got Talent preparing to welcome another wave of hopeful performers, one familiar storyline is already guaranteed to return — Amanda Holden’s headline-grabbing wardrobe.
Now 55, Amanda has sat on the judging panel since the show’s launch in 2007, and over the years she has become just as famous for her daring fashion choices as for her reactions to golden buzzers. From plunging necklines and sheer panels to thigh-high splits, her outfits have repeatedly ignited viewer outrage — and sent complaint numbers soaring at Ofcom.
Yet despite the backlash, Amanda has never wavered — insisting she loves every single look.
“I’d be bored playing it safe”
The presenter has long defended her outfits, revealing that every dress is approved before she steps onto the BGT stage. She has even joked that ITV once introduced a so-called “committee” to assess whether her gowns were too revealing.
“What you see on TV, I really love,” Amanda has said. “Fashion is about having fun. I’d be bored playing it safe.”
And time and again, Ofcom has agreed — repeatedly ruling that her outfits did not breach broadcasting rules.
The dresses that caused the biggest uproar
Spiderweb dress (2019) — 9 complaints
One of Amanda’s more subtle looks still sparked debate. The sheer mesh gown featured an embroidered spiderweb across the chest, prompting claims it was “inappropriate” — despite only nine official complaints being recorded.
Plunging blue gown (2019) — 34 complaints
Later that same series, Amanda turned heads in a deep-V gown by Lebanese designer Saiid Kobeisy. Its low neckline drew 34 complaints from viewers.
Plunging white final dress — 72 complaints
During the live final, Amanda wore a custom white gown with a scooped neckline and silver detailing beneath the bust. Viewers deemed it “too revealing for family viewing,” resulting in 72 complaints.
Sparkling sheer dress (2016) — 90 complaints
A glittering sheer gown layered over a black leotard triggered 90 complaints. Ofcom declined to investigate, stating the outfit would not have exceeded audience expectations.
Lace corset dress (2020) — 136 complaints
Amanda’s plum-coloured Suzanne Neville gown, complete with a lace corset bodice, caused another spike in outrage. She later dismissed the reaction as “baffling.”
Celia Kritharioti navy gown (2020) — 235 complaints
Speculation about a wardrobe malfunction in a low-cut off-the-shoulder dress sent complaints soaring. Amanda later joked: “Who has nipples that close to their cleavage?”
Julien Macdonald black gown (2017) — 663 complaints
The most controversial look of all. The plunging £11,000 gown slashed to the navel and cut low at the back triggered a staggering 663 complaints. Despite the uproar, Ofcom ruled the dress acceptable.
Still unapologetic — and still pushing boundaries
Rather than retreat, Amanda has continued to lean into bold fashion choices, often laughing off criticism and insisting her wardrobe is part of the show’s spectacle.
As the next series of Britain’s Got Talent approaches, one thing is certain:
Whether viewers applaud or complain, Amanda Holden’s outfits will once again steal the spotlight — long before the first act even steps on stage. 👗🔥
