Prime Minister Andy Burnham was observed wearing braces under his suit during a photocall in Ilkeston, Derbyshire, this week. The navy, slimline, button-on braces were largely concealed until he unbuttoned his suit jacket to greet members of the public.
Burnham's £595 navy Eaton suit, made from 100% merino wool, was crafted by Oliver Brown, a traditional tailor. A spokesperson for Oliver Brown confirmed the suit was theirs, but not the braces.
According to a political insider who has worked on Burnham's campaigns, his clothing choices are not an afterthought. The insider told the Guardian that Burnham's team aims to strike a balance between presenting him as a professional and capable politician, while also conveying that he is distinct from other politicians.