Burnham’s new flex: what wearing suit braces says about PM
Summary
Prime Minister Andy Burnham wore suit braces, a traditional accessory, during a public appearance in Derbyshire. The braces are often seen as a symbol of formality and have a history of changing meanings in fashion and politics.Key Facts
- Andy Burnham wore navy, button-on braces under his suit in Ilkeston, Derbyshire.
- His £595 navy suit is made by Oliver Brown, tailored from 100% merino wool.
- The braces were only visible when Burnham unbuttoned his jacket to hug members of the public.
- The suit trousers have side fasteners, so braces are not strictly necessary to hold them up.
- Braces were invented in France in the 1700s and became leather button-on versions in 1820.
- In the 1960s and 70s, braces became symbols of rebellion in UK youth subcultures like mods and skinheads.
- By the 1980s, braces were worn by both Wall Street financiers and punk groups, showing fashion’s broad appeal.
- In politics, braces are seen as a symbol of tradition, used historically by figures like Winston Churchill and Michael Portillo.
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