What will Sarah Brown make of supermodel First Lady Carla?

At first sight, the French First Lady may seem to have little in common with the wife of the British Prime Minister.

Carla Bruni-Sarkozy is a super-glam model and singer as well as being wed to the man the French call President Bling-Bling. Sarah Brown has concentrated on being a mother since she married Gordon Brown, a man many see as dour.

But they'll have a lot to talk about during the state visit this week. Both have toned down their natural style as the wife of a head of state. Madame Bruni-Sarkozy, 40, has contrived to be criticised for dowdy dressing. The sensible suits worn by Mrs Brown, 44, are only remarkable when compared to the flamboyance of her predecessor.

A PR expert, Mrs Brown might have advice for her counterpart. As a performer, the French First Lady could offer tips to Mrs Brown before she makes her first televised speech on Thursday.