The question on everyone's lips as the French presidential election heats up goes something like: "Boy shorts or thong, Madame Royal?" Or so say admirers of the 53-year-old socialist Ségolène Royal, the woman who may be the next president of France.

Fashion choices have always been a lightning rod for women in politics. But this week, political observer Réjane Sénac-Slawinski told a British paper that Royal's powerful sex appeal and classy togs might just win her the election. "She gives the impression of being a wonder-woman—a strong politician, a good mother, but also the woman every man wants to marry."

With her bikinis, stilettos, tailored pastel suits from French label Paule Ka, and basics from Zara and Agnes B., Royal's wardrobe "screams of bourgeois France." But her sartorial style has critics reacting harshly against her Yummy Mummy image: ''If the Devil wears Prada then the She-Devil wears Paule Ka," goes their slogan.

Win or not, she could teach pantsuited Hillary Clinton a few things. Although Clinton's looks have vastly improved since her early days as the First Lady, at least one designing diva is saying she's not working her femininity hard enough. Donatella Versace, who admires Hillary, says, "I can understand [trousers] are comfortable, but she's a woman and she is allowed to show that. She should treat femininity as an opportunity and not try to emulate masculinity in politics."

Hey, Hills, try on one of those bandage dresses for size! That way when the president of France comes visiting you in the White House you won't look like chopped liver.

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