Olivia Snaije : President François Hollande 's alleged affair has spotlighted First Lady status . The term `` First Lady '' is likely to have originated in the 19th century in the United States where she has a legal status as a de facto officer of government with her own budget and staff . The role of First Lady in France has become increasingly conspicuous , she writes . Hide Caption 1 of 10 Photos: A woman giving up her career to become First Lady is less acceptable . The concept of `` First Spouse '' seems increasingly anachronistic , she says .
Olivia Snaije : President François Hollande 's alleged affair has spotlighted First Lady status . The role of First Lady in France has become increasingly conspicuous , she writes . Hide Caption 1 of 10 Photos: A woman giving up her career to become First Lady is less acceptable . The concept of `` First Spouse '' seems increasingly anachronistic , she says .