My two passions in life; politics and fashion. Until recently the two seemed to be juxtaposed however the tides seem to be turning as women like Michelle Obama and Carla Bruni-Sarkozy emerge.
'The essence of the well-dressed woman should never be exaggerated,' Margaret Thatcher declared as Prime Minister in 1985. 'Appearance is the first impression people get of you. And it does matter. It matters tremendously when you represent your country…'
How true.
While it is not unusual for First Ladies in America to make it on to the pages of Vogue magazine, when Michelle Obama graced the cover of the style bible earlier this year (March issue) she was described as "The First Lady The World's Been Waiting For."
Appearance does matter. And first appearances matter all the more when you are trying to win an election. While no one is advocating that women politicians or political wives turn up to the Commons in jeans, tee and trainers there also seems little need for the boring boxy suits favoured by many female MPs today.
Indeed, during the Presidential campaign in the US last year Hilary Clinton pulled out of a Vogue shoot for fear of appearing too feminine. Politics is often seen (wrongly, I might add) as a man's world. This has to change. Women in politics should not be afraid of their femininity, indeed they should embrace it. In a man's world' it is vital to stand out from the crowd and what better way than as a woman?!
Those women in politics who look best are those who make the most of what they have. Those who do not try too hard to be something they are not. Here are my 10 dos and don'ts of dressing right for women in politics:
1. Do NOT go for the standard 'boxy' suit, in fact, if at all possible, do not wear a suit at all.
2. Do NOT stick to a twin-set and pearls combo - might win you votes with the blue rinse brigade but maybe not even there!
3. DO pay for a decent hair cut that can be easily styled - nothing too short and nothing that will go frizzy in the rain.
4. DO go to a decent make up counter and get make up that suits your skin type. If you are pale or prone to shiny skin, ask for something to combat this - nothing looks worse on TV, you either look ill or like a greasy teenager.
5. You do NOT have to wear heels (check out Carla Bruni-Sarkozy on her trip to Britain).
6. Black opaque tights are your new best friend - keep a spare in your desk drawer! (They have amazing slimming properties!)
7. DO wear trousers if you are more comfortable but make sure they are tailored.
8. You do NOT have to wear shirts, a simple tee looks just a smart under a jacket.
9. DO invest in two smart classic coats, one for summer and one for winter. A trench in summer and a wool coast for winter will see you through the seasons.
10. DO accessorise!! A bright coloured bag here, some statement earrings there - have fun with your accessories!
