Julien Macdonald Takes Strictly

Julien Macdonald will take part in this year's Strictly Come Dancing, is has been confirmed this morning. The Welch Designer joins model Abbey Clancy, broadcaster Vanessa Feltz and singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor in the annual dance contest which starts on BBC1 on September 7. 

"I am delighted and excited to be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing as it is my favorite show," Macdonald told us. "I love the music, dancing and the fabulous costumes, and always look forward to seeing who is wearing what on the dance-floor. As a contestant this year, I hope to rise to the challenge of learning how to dance as it it something I haven't done for a while."

The winner will take home a cash prize of £100,000, although all competitors are given £25,000 just for taking part. Macdonald - who wanted to be a dancer prior to becoming a designer - has previously appeared on It Takes Two, the sister show, offering his take on contestants outfits.