Sneakers and a suit? It’s more the norm for modern business and politics

The former prime minister wore striped sneakers with a suit during the Throne Speech.

Online fashion police were quick to notice former prime minister Justin Trudeau’s footwear at the throne speech on Monday after he complemented a pair of colourful Adidas Gazelles with a blue suit, shirt and tie.

Some said the sneakers were too casual for the royal affair, and others dug his kicks.

Trudeau’s style, however, is not far from trending attire in the workplace.

At lunchtime in downtown Montreal on Tuesday, many were using the sidewalk as their catwalk.

“Today, I went with a long tie instead of a bowtie,” said lawyer Ben Jeske.

Jeske said he feels more professional wearing a tie, but also that he’s an anomaly.

“In my office, most people do not wear neckties,” he said. “Men will usually wear sport coats or suits with an open collar.”

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The sans-tie look is not uncommon.

Stylist Jeff Golf said workplace style changes over time.

“Maybe 10 or 15 years ago, it would have been unheard of for men to show up at a corporate workplace without a tie,” said the Ludique Personal Fashion stylist. “Now, our clients are encouraging their teams to not wear ties to the workplace.”

Golf said that the casual style started before the pandemic but that casual work fits are even more apparent now as employees return to the office.

“The whole working from home experience forced people into just not having to dress up, and that has remained, in the sense of wanting to still be comfortable, but also looking work appropriate,” said Golf.

Bright-coloured sneakers like those Trudeau was wearing stand out in Montreal, as many professionals say comfortable kicks have become a staple of their work attire.

“I would say like a dress and some sneakers sometimes,” said Fenda Fati.

Etiquette expert Julie Blais Comeau said there is a time and place for trainers, but it may not be when greeting royalty.

“When we dress, we communicate,” she said. “It depends on the activity and where it is. So, yes, the guidelines are evolving.”

Belanger was wearing the kind of blue Nike’s sneakerheads lust over.

“Don’t compare me with Justin Trudeau,” he said.

Golf said it’s all a way to express personal style, so for businesspeople, the world is their runway.