Diplomacy in dresses: City fashion expert's view on the First Lady's style

MELANIA MIXED BRITISH HERITAGE WITH HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR

- By LARA OWEN, PA

THE US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania touched down in the UK on September 16 for their state visit.

While they are supposed to express good bilateral relations, state visits are rarely just about handshakes and speeches. With more pictures issued than words, the leaders' clothes speak as loudly as policy.

When Melania Trump, 55, stepped off the plane at Stansted Airport, the First Lady's outfit spoke volumes before she uttered a word.

In a classic camel Burberry trench, she offered an immediate nod to her hosts.

Dr Naomi Braithwaite, associate professor in fashion and material culture at Nottingham Trent University, said: "Burberry is the sign of British fashion, and so coming down wearing that is a really positive thing."

The coat - flapping open to reveal the signature check lining, collar dramatically turned up - was both practical and theatrical.

Dr Braithwaite saw not only British heritage but "that wonderful Hollywood glamour [when trenches were worn by] Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart," who made the trench such an iconic piece harking back to when US and European style came together.

That tension between tribute and individuality has defined Melania's wardrobe choices since she arrived.

The Burberry trench signalled her awareness of place and history.