First lady of the shift dress: 34 photos that trace Dr Jill Biden's style evolution during her time in the political spotlight

She may become the first lady of the US for the first time as her husband, Joe Biden, is inaugurated on Wednesday, but this is not Dr Jill Biden's first rodeo. The American educator, 69, served as the second lady of the US – informally known as Slotus – between 2009 to 2017, when her husband was vice president to Barack Obama. Thanks to Joe's long-running career in politics, Jill has had many years to get ready for the glare of the political spotlight. And, during that time, she's finessed her fashion formula when it comes to stepping out at rallies, events and political visits. The professor of English, who married the president-elect in 1977, developed something of a style signature during Obama's presidency, frequently donning shift dresses in bright, bold block colours or vibrant florals. The incoming Flotus is also no stranger to modern tailoring, dabbling in peplum-hemmed blazers, relaxed collared shirts and well-cut outerwear. However, she rarely lets her outfits overshadow her work. Though she has been known to wear designers, including Reem Acra, Dolce & Gabbana and Gabriela Hearst, little can be found about the labels she has worn during her husband's many campaign trails. She also, refreshingly, advocates slow fashion, choosing to rewear key pieces on several occasions. Here, we take a look at how the new first lady's style has evolved throughout her time in the spotlight. Scroll through the gallery above to see more images of Jill Biden through the years.

First lady of the shift dress: 34 photos that trace Dr Jill Biden's style evolution during her time in the political spotlight

The incoming first lady of the US developed a tried-and-tested fashion formula during her time as wife of the vice president