Politics of fashion

Samantha Cameron gave a nod to both Britain and Italy working a demure column gown by Italian born but British based fashion newcomer Alessandra Rich – pairing it shoes from good old British high street stalwart Next. Michelle on the other hand showcased her country’s special relationship with the UK, donning off-the-shoulder Marchesa by New York based British export Georgina Chapman.

And the official presidential response? “Very pretty. They look better than us.”

The event itself was also staged with the height of diplomacy: the menu served Bison Wellington and lemon pudd with Idaho huckleberry sauce ( “to unite British and American flavours” according to exec chef Chris Comerford), the musical billing saw performances from both John Legend and Mumford and Sons and on the guest list Downton Abbey’s Hugh Bonneville rubbed impeccably tailored shoulders with US heartthrob George Clooney.