Trudeau’s casual footwear at royal visit draws jabs for etiquette faux pas

Justin Trudeau’s casual footwear at Tuesday’s throne speech drew some criticism from online fashion police and royal watchers miffed to see colourful sneakers at a ceremonial event presided over by the King.

Otherwise clad in a traditional blue-on-blue-on-blue ensemble with matching suit, shirt and tie, Canada’s former prime minister appeared at King Charles’ throne speech in what appeared to be green Adidas Gazelles.

The 53-year-old drew a range of hot takes for his spin on sartorial style, with some decrying the look for being too informal and others praising the comfort-casual approach. 

Trudeau sat within sight of King Charles and Queen Camilla, who made a rare royal appearance for the opening of a new session of Parliament.

The King wore a dark blue striped suit with the Order of Canada around his neck and an array of medals. The Queen wore a navy blue crepe silk dress by Fiona Clare with a navy blue hat by Philip Treacy and matching Chanel handbag.

Others in attendance included Trudeau’s mother Margaret, former prime minister Stephen Harper, and former governors general Michaëlle Jean and Adrienne Clarkson.

Similar Adidas models displayed online describe the suede sneakers as “collegiate green” with stripes in a “preloved red” shade, available for around $100 or more. 

Social media comments posted to X included @IAmFantaesia’s verdict that the look displayed “no class,” and @maarjohn_ who declared the shoes brought “style and comfort to the Senate.”

Toronto etiquette expert Susy Fossati said Trudeau still represents Canada on the world stage and should have dressed more formally.

“If you’re going to wear the sneakers, at least wear black,” said Fossati, director of Avignon Etiquette

“What was with the green? You couldn’t more stand out like a sore thumb if you tried. It’s no wonder people are interpreting this a million different ways.”

A request for comment to a representative for Trudeau was not immediately returned.

Bold fashion choices are not unheard of for Trudeau, also known for punctuating a staid suit and dress shoes with colourful socks. 

His attire raised eyebrows in 2018 when he and his family donned traditional garb during a trip to India, among them an elaborate gold sherwani Trudeau wore to a dinner with Bollywood stars who all wore dark suits.

Fossati said the setting and focus of Tuesday’s event, as well as its roster of royal guests and dignitaries, demanded more traditional clothes. 

“He’s still an important figure in our society and as such you have a responsibility, whether in the position or not, to best represent us however you can in the best way possible.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 27, 2025.