Ex-Prime Minister Trudeau Turns Heads in Sneakers at King Charles' Throne Speech: A Fashion Statement or Casual Choice?

If diplomacy is theater, former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau made quite an entrance on Tuesday, arguably upstaging the royal guests before the proceedings even began. Arriving for King Charles III’s historic Speech from the Throne in Ottawa, Trudeau eschewed traditional formalwear footwear, opting instead for a striking pair of turquoise and orange Adidas Gazelles. The bold sartorial choice drew immediate attention, raising eyebrows amid the otherwise formal milieu of the Senate chamber.

While sneakers might have blended in at a less ceremonial gathering, the presence of royalty set a different tone. King Charles III and Queen Camilla were in Ottawa for a two-day state visit, marking the king’s first trip to Canada since ascending the throne in 2022. Despite undergoing cancer treatment and maintaining a restricted public schedule, King Charles accepted Prime Minister Mark Carney's invitation to inaugurate the 45th session of Parliament—a symbolic gesture reinforcing Canada's independence and resilience during a period of heightened scrutiny.

This visit came against the backdrop of recent remarks by former President Donald Trump, who suggested Canada could become the United States’ 51st state—comments flatly dismissed by Canadian leaders. Prime Minister Carney has reiterated that "Canada is not for sale now, not for sale ever," sentiments echoed by Canadian High Commissioner to the U.K., Ralph Goodale, who framed the royal visit as affirmation of that stance.

During his speech to Parliament, King Charles made subtle but clear references to Canada’s sovereignty and identity. Addressing senators, Indigenous leaders, and dignitaries, he affirmed, "The true north is indeed strong and free." He also met privately with Prime Minister Carney and Governor General Mary Simon, underscoring his official role as head of state for Canada and 14 other commonwealth realms.

The context of the royal visit is significant: the U.K. is reportedly seeking closer trade and diplomatic ties with the United States under both current and potential future administrations, including discussions related to Ukraine and other international priorities.

While the ceremonial gravity of the occasion was unmistakable, Trudeau’s footwear did not go unnoticed by the public or on social media. Fashion experts have recently celebrated the Adidas Gazelle as a timeless staple, with British Vogue praising its retro silhouette and casual ease. Still, opinion was divided on their appropriateness for such a formal event. One observer remarked pointedly on social media, "Justin Trudeau’s shoes, today, at Parliament! Also in Parliament today – King Charles." Another joked, "Retirement runners perhaps?" Some, like former political aide Dimitris Soudas, declined to comment altogether.

Amid governors general, premiers, Indigenous representatives, and military honorees, Trudeau’s brightly colored trainers stood out almost as much as the king’s message. King Charles opened his address with a land acknowledgment and quickly moved to emphasize Canada’s unique identity and enduring sovereignty, reminders of the firm line drawn by Canadian officials in response to foreign conjectures about the country’s future.

The speech, largely drafted by Canadian government officials but featuring the king’s personal touches, included references to economic ambition and national unity. "Every time I come to Canada … a little more of Canada seeps into my bloodstream, and from there straight to my heart," King Charles remarked, striking a personal note with his audience.

During the proceedings, Trudeau was also spotted engaged in animated conversation with Stephen Harper, his longtime political rival, sparking speculation about what was being discussed. The specifics remained private.

In a final echo to iconic footwear, one commentator quipped, "Well, you can do anything, but stay off of my blue suede shoes," riffing on the day’s unexpected fashion highlight and its unlikely intersection with royal tradition.

Reporting contributed by Landon Mion.