The style evolution of Andy Burnham’s ‘cool-girl’ wife Marie-France van Heel

Standing opposite Queen Elizabeth II’s classic camel and fur ensemble, Marie-France van Heel proved that political spouses don’t have to play it safe. Attending the 2009 unveiling of the Queen Mother’s memorial alongside her husband – then Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport – she brought a dose of colour to royal protocol. She paired a scalloped white mini dress with a striking red tweed coat, an oversized floral corsage, and a vintage-inspired wide-brimmed hat.

At the 2013 premiere of The Stone Roses: Made of Stone in Manchester, Marie-France was suitably dressed down for the occasion in high-top converse, black skinny jeans, a sequin T-shirt and a black fringed jacket – and noticeably casual next to her suited-up husband.

Two years later, she arrived in Westminster to attend the ballot result for the new Labour leader where Andy placed second to Jeremy Corbyn’s landslide victory. Dressed in the party’s signature colour, Marie styled her red blazer with a white blouse, printed trousers and statement hoop earrings.

Almost a decade on, the political backdrop looked very different as Andy was announced the winner of the Makerfield by-election on his path to becoming Labour leader. Standing alongside him in high-top Converse, oversized sunglasses and wide-leg culottes, Marie-France stayed true to her casual, rock-influenced style.

A month later, Marie-France was pictured with Andy as he was announced as the new leader of the Labour Party. She wore an accessible, mint green lace cutwork co-ord from M&S – a choice that clearly resonated with the public as it quickly sold out.

Leaving Buckingham Palace after meeting King Charles, Marie-France stepped into traditional state dressing with a British, high fashion twist. She wore an elegant midi dress by Victoria Beckham, colour-matched to a pastel shoulder bag and finished with metallic slingback heels.

Marie-France championed the British high street again in July, wearing the Loren Jacquard dress from Hobbs to attend the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow alongside Andy, King Charles and Queen Camilla. The demure midi featured a subtle striped jacquard and semi-sheer blouson sleeves.

Last week, Marie-France stunned in the Millie dress from Reiss dress to view the Bayeux Tapestry with members of the royal family. The beautiful cream midi featuring a pleated skirt, sheer blouson sleeves and a tie-back sash is a piece I wouldn’t be surprised to see Princess Kate step out in. The Prime Minister’s wife styled it to perfection with matching ivory kitten heels.

Stepping out of 10 Downing Street days later, Marie-France leaned into modern, minimalist tailoring. She paired a draped ivory satin top featuring cross-body gathering with fluid, wide-leg black trousers and cream pointed flats. It was a sophisticated look that firmly cemented her chic new style.