Why DOES Amanda always get the cold shoulder?

... because it’s a clever fashion ruse to only flash one arm at a time, as these pictures of the TV star show

AMANDA HOLDEN has beautiful arms — slim, shapely, bronzed, buffed to perfection and just the right side of muscly.

So why does she choose to get them out one at a time? The BGT star, 49, has been a big supporter of the ‘one-armed bandit’ look for many years — bold asymmetric dresses and suits, with only one arm. From designer creations by the likes of Julien Macdonald to Balmain, costing up to £8,000, it’s a look she returns to.

Last week she chose this quirky and modestly-priced pink suit with onesleeved jacket (pictured left) by the online brand lavish Alice. So why go for one arm when two is the accepted norm? Well, it’s a distraction technique: because with a clever, asymmetric neckline, a one-sleeve outfit diverts attention away from the lower body and to the shoulders and face.

It’s also a good way to be daring — but not too much. A half-way house to a full, armless look where only the young and gym-ready dare venture. And of course, there is a boastful element to it. A onearmed dress or jacket is not going to allow much scope for supportive underwear, so only a strapless bra and a cooperative bosom will do for most wearers.

As for rules over left or right — there don’t appear to be any. As the majority of people are right-handed, many favour that side as it’s the arm they feel more comfortable using to hold a clutch bag, which provides a degree of balance (far better than the over-the-shoulder bag with this look). left or right, the trick is always to ensure that the arm is faultless — after all, it has a big job to do . . . a ll on its own.