Andy Burnham’s casual style can relate to the number 10.

It may seem simple, but clothes are important in politics.

Former British Prime Ministers, especially Harold Wilson and Margaret Thatcher, have shown that fashion can be used as a powerful political tool.

Known for her signature wardrobe of high-shoulder dresses, pea-bow blouses and iconic handbags, Thatcher created an image that sought to evoke a sense of power and purpose.

In contrast, Wilson – often decked out in a pipe and trench coat – was popular for practical, utilitarian clothing that typified the “cloth cap” socialism of the 1960s and ’70s.

Rob Ford, a professor of political science at the University of Manchester, says female politicians are scrutinized more for their dress sense than their male counterparts.

“There’s a big double standard with that. It’s very difficult for a woman politician because you always have to make a choice,” Ford said.

At least men can always go back to addiction, he said.

Image isn’t everything though, as Conservative leader Kimmy Badenoch argued last month, dismissing Burnham as “eyelashes and a black T-shirt”.

In response to her dig, Burnham looked up at the T-shirt before saying, “It’s not black, it’s black navy.”

In a speech this week after being confirmed as Labor’s new leader, Burnham – dressed in a suit and tie – couldn’t resist bringing the suit back.

He said Labor had previously worn “too much Tory clothing”.

“Let me tell you – I’m so glad Kimmy didn’t approve of my wardrobe choices – because I don’t want them either,” Burnham said. “We do it differently.”

Interestingly, Sir Keir Starmer adopted his successor’s style of dress, with the outgoing prime minister sometimes seen in tracksuit bottoms, a Stone Island polo shirt and Adidas trainers.

The difference, says Professor Rob Ford, is that Burnham’s fashion choices are out of step with the crowd.

“The fact that people notice that he’s dressed differently is a win for his brand efforts,” Ford said.

Like Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, Burnham likes to be photographed swilling pints in pubs.

“The purpose of the outfit is the same – I’m not a professional politician, I’m one of you,” Ford says.

Maintaining that approachable, homespun persona while adhering to the sartorial conventions and expectations of Westminster will be a challenge for Burnham.

In an age where politics is unprecedented, he needs to dress to impress whoever decides to wear it.