The first time was a statement, and the second time could have been a coincidence. But Rupert Murdoch wearing sneakers to the White House on Monday makes it a trend.
Suits and sneakers are as divisive as sandals and socks, but Murdoch has chosen a side and, following the menswear shows in Europe last month and the Grammy Awards red carpet, itβs winning.
Murdoch debuted his now signature sneaker-suit combo at his June wedding to molecular biologist Elena Zhukova, repeating the pairing on a visit to support Melbourneβs Jewish community in December.
RupertΒ Murdoch listens as US President Donald Trump speaks to reporters in the Oval Office of the White House; and (right) sneakers and suits on the runway at the Louis Vuitton menswear show in Paris.Credit: Getty Images
While the brand of sneakers Murdoch wore for his fifth marriage was difficult to identify, at the White House his choice of Brooks running shoes was clear. The popular brand is owned by fellow billionaire nonagenarian Warren Buffettβs company, Berkshire Hathaway.
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There were no Brooks sneakers on the runway at the menswear shows in Paris, but Louis Vuitton creative director Pharrell paired braided platform sneaker styles with suits for his collaboration with streetwear designer Nigo. At Diorβs menswear show, designer Kim Jones anchored navy double-breasted blazers with jogger-style trousers and Japanese-style slip-on black sneakers.
Meanwhile, this yearβs Grammys guests pushed dress code boundaries, with basketballer Marcus Banks, the awards showβs executive producer Ben Winston and gospel singer Kelby Johnson matching sneakers with black-tie suits.
Thankfully, following Bianca Censoriβs near naked appearance with husband Ye (formerly the rapper Kanye West), there was little chance of them looking underdressed.
Outside the Oval Office and off the red carpet, many men struggle with when itβs OK to wear a suit with sneakers, but these tips will keep you walking β and jogging β tall.