By Elise Barry

Whether it’s Theresa May’s piquant leopard-print heels, Jeremy Corbyn’s practical Harrington jacket or Hillary Clinton’s famous pantsuits, the style of politicians is a topic that frequents headlines and generates fervent discussion.

Mere months ago, the disparity between Rishi Sunak’s £450 Prada loafers and Liz Truss’ £4.50 Claire’s Accessories earrings fuelled furious debate. Despite their irrelevance to matters of policy, such garments appear at first glance as a thrilling insight into any personality they may possess. Yet, a closer look into the intricacies of each outfit choice can indicate a calculated politician’s strategy, target demographic, and governmental aspirations.

The vast majority of politicians likely take public opinion into account when making style decisions. The slick, modern tailoring of Sunak indeed perhaps embodies a move away from the disordered dishevelment that has defined the last few years of governmental control, or at least that’s what he wants you to think.

Similarly, upon the Labour Party’s appointment of Sir Keir Starmer as leader, a Guardian Opinion piece placed heavy emphasis upon his professionalism and competence, deeming him ‘a serious politician’. These comments were seemingly pointed at his predecessor Jeremy Corbyn, whose unkempt, relaxed style had been criticised throughout his political career. As many as 69% of newspaper articles in the first three months of his…