Who pays for the clothing of world leaders and their spouses?

Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Victoria accepted clothing donations to “look their best” representing the UK, David Lammy revealed. When asked about these donations, the Foreign Secretary suggested that some countries have taxpayer-funded budgets for their leaders’ clothing.

Lammy was responding to reports that Sir Keir may have breached parliamentary rules by failing to declare clothing purchased for his wife by Labour donor, Lord Waheed Alli. Lammy told Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg: “US presidents and first ladies have a large taxpayer-funded budget to ensure they look their best on behalf of the American people.”

However, the US first lady does not have access to a specific clothing budget, and many have expressed frustration over the cost of maintaining a fashionable appearance in the White House.

Allowance for the President—but Not the First Lady

In some countries, taxpayers contribute to leaders’ living expenses, which may include clothing. In the US, presidents have an annual expenses budget of $50,000 (£38,000), which can be used for clothing, among other things, in addition to a $400,000 salary. However, the president’s spouse, historically a first lady, does not receive a salary or fixed expenses budget, though they have paid staff and an office.

Despite this, first ladies’ fashion choices often attract significant attention and scrutiny. Notable examples include Melania Trump’s Zara jacket emblazoned with “I REALLY DON’T CARE, DO U?” during a visit to a migrant detention center, and Michelle Obama’s red Alexander McQueen dress while meeting former Chinese President Hu Jintao.

Many first ladies, like Laura Bush, have pointed out that they are expected to pay for their own clothing. In her 2010 memoir, Bush noted her surprise at the amount of designer clothing she was expected to purchase to meet fashion expectations. “After our first year in the White House, our accountant told George, ‘It costs a lot to be president,’ mainly referring to my clothes,” she wrote.

Michelle Obama’s press secretary, Joanna Rosholm, confirmed in 2014: “Mrs. Obama pays for her clothing.” US first ladies can, however, accept clothing as gifts, often on behalf of the government. Designers often view the first lady’s fashion as valuable publicity.

“For official events of public or historical significance, such as a state visit, the first lady’s clothes may be donated by a designer and accepted on behalf of the US government,” Rosholm explained.

Other Countries’ Practices

In the UK, Sarah Brown, wife of former prime minister Gordon Brown, wrote about the challenges of accepting gifts, including clothing, while at Downing Street. She explained that any clothes she wished to keep were bought, and those freely offered were effectively rented for about 10% of their retail value before being returned.

In France, Brigitte Macron, the wife of President Emmanuel Macron, does not have a state-funded clothing budget and is often lent outfits by high fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton. Her office keeps track of which items are donated and which belong to her.

By contrast, Emmanuel Macron has faced criticism for his personal expenses. In 2023, it was revealed that his office booked a business-class flight solely to transport two of his suits from Paris to Brazil, costing nearly €4,000 (£3,380).

In Germany, there has been criticism over ministers spending €450,000 on hairdressers, makeup artists, and photographers in the first half of 2023, though there is no specific fund for clothing.

When asked about Lammy’s remarks, a Foreign Office spokesperson declined to comment. Downing Street stated that Sir Keir had sought advice upon taking office and believed he was compliant, but after further review, additional items were declared.

Credit: BBC