Syria's first lady ranks most stylish in politics

Asma al-Assad was born and raised in London and has a degree in Computer Science

DUBAI (AlArabiya.net)

Syria's First Lady Asma al-Assad has been chosen by French women's magazine 'Elle' as the most stylish of international political ladies in 2008, beating France's own Carla Bruni-Sarkozy.

A jury--made up of top French designers and the magazine's editor-in-chief--picked the willowy slim first lady for top place from among a host of elegant political women who are increasingly politically active in their spousal role.

Carla Bruni-Sarkozy

France's First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, who was a runway model, was chosen as second place followed by U.S. President-elect Barack Obama's wife, Michelle, and French Justice Minister Rachida Dati.

It was unclear if Jordan's Queen Rania or Princess Haya were included in the list, but both royals are regularly featured in Arab media dressed in the latest designer outfits.

Asma was born in the west London town of Acton and is the daughter of prominent Syrian cardiologist Fawaz Akhras.