Burnham's wife makes No10 fashion statement: Marie-France van Heel wears £850 Victoria Beckham dress

The Dutch-born marketing executive traded her high-street look last week for the epitome of British high fashion as she braced for life inside No10. Ms van Heel lived up to her reputation as the “coolest girl in college” in a lilac gown designed by another one of Britain’s “first ladies”, Victoria Beckham. The 56-year-old stunned in the elegant £850 midi dress, which is made from crepe and features cape sleeves with a fitted waist. Prime Minister Andy Burnham and his wife, Marie-France van Heel, were greeted by staff as they walked into 10 Downing StreetPA WireMs van Heel’s pastel dress was paired with nude slingback shoes, likely to be a £45.99 pair from high-street footwear brand, Office. It wouldn’t be the first time that Ms van Heel has championed high-street fashion or blended luxury with affordability. Just days ago, when her husband was announced as Labour Party leader, Ms van Heel wore a green M&S co-ord and a pair of Boden heels. The matching top and skirt combo costs just £80 altogether. The Prime Minister’s wife is proving that she can satisfy a spectrum of critics, from luxury shoppers to high-street devotees - something her husband will be keen to replicate. The couple wave after Mr Burnham’s audience with the KingPA WireThe moment the new PM was confirmed as Labour leaderPA WireMr Burnham and Ms van Heel in Ashton ahead of the Makerfield by-electionAFP via Getty ImagesShe wore a polka dot blouse, black vest, and culottes, with a pair of Converse Run Star Hike trainers, but elevated the casual look with a pair of Tom Ford Kaya sunglasses and what is believed to be a Tiffany Heart Tag Toggle necklace. As she steps into the limelight, Ms van Heel’s outfits will continue to come under scrutiny like the Prime Ministers’ wives before her. Read MoreIt’s been a strong start for Ms van Heel who has hinted at her husband’s policies through couture, but only time will tell whether Mr Burnham will blend high and low quite like his wife.