Andy Burnham, the Labour politician widely expected to become the next prime minister, has cultivated a distinctive casual style that has become synonymous with his political brand. However, as he prepares for potential high office, the question arises: can he leave his 'Manchester clothes' behind?
Burnham's Style Journey
Burnham's wardrobe has evolved alongside his political career. Known for his buttoned-up polo shirts, Everton shirts, Clarks Wallabees, yellow Bee Network pins, black T-shirts, and 5-inch running shorts, his look projects a gen X dad, northern indie fella image. This 'identity dressing' mirrors tactics used by US politicians like George W. Bush and Ron DeSantis, who used cowboy hats and fishing gear to signal regional roots.
During a speech at the People's History Museum in Manchester on Monday, Burnham addressed his wardrobe directly. 'It's been such a wrench to leave that I've had to get special permission from what people in Westminster call my Manchester clothes,' he said. 'I've had to get special permission to wear them this morning.'
Political Reactions to His Style
Conservative rival Kemi Badenoch recently mocked Burnham, describing him as a 'pair of eyelashes and a black T-shirt.' Burnham corrected her, noting the T-shirt was actually navy, in a now-viral video. His navy workwear jacket from a 2020 speech, where he opposed a Westminster-imposed Covid lockdown, is now displayed in a museum vitrine next to Michael Foot's donkey jacket.
The Challenge of Transitioning to No 10
If Burnham becomes prime minister, he will likely need to adopt a more formal dress code, including wearing a tie. This transition mirrors the struggles of past leaders; Rishi Sunak faced criticism for wearing Prada loafers on a visit to Teesside, while Liz Truss's fashion choices were also scrutinized. Burnham's ability to adapt his style, however, may work in his favour, as it signals he is listening to public sentiment.
Morwenna Ferrier, the Guardian's fashion and lifestyle editor, notes that Burnham's casualness could be seen as an exercise of male privilege, as women politicians like Angela Rayner face harsher scrutiny for their footwear. Yet, Burnham's authenticity in his clothing choices—rooted in his Manchester identity—has helped him connect with voters.
As Burnham eyes the highest office, his wardrobe will likely become a symbol of his political journey. Whether he can balance his signature style with the expectations of No 10 remains to be seen, but his track record suggests he will adapt without losing his core identity.
