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, it’s 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 Melbourne’s Jewish community in December.
Rupert 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 Buffett’s company, Berkshire Hathaway.
There were no Brooks sneakers on the runway at the menswear shows in Paris, but Louis Vuitton creative director Pharrell Williams paired braided platform sneaker styles with suits for his collaboration with streetwear designer Nigo. At Dior’s menswear show, designer Kim Jones anchored navy double-breasted blazers with jogger-style trousers and Japanese-style slip-on black sneakers.
Meanwhile, this year’s Grammys guests pushed dress code boundaries, with basketballer Marcus Banks, the awards show’s executive producer Ben Winston and gospel singer Kelby Johnson matching sneakers with black-tie suits.
Thankfully, following Bianca Censori’s 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 it’s OK to wear a suit with sneakers, but these tips will keep you walking – and jogging – tall.
Yes: The office
Most workplaces now have a dress-for-your-day policy. If you’re not presenting to the board, pitching to conservative clients or delivering the latest Reserve Bank results, feel free to wear Pumas with pinstripes – just keep polished brogues beneath your desk for emergencies.
It’s all about context. While most fashion editors would look ridiculous sitting front row at a Camilla show reviewing kaftans in a three-piece suit and leather shoes, many lawyers would be reprimanded for appearing before a judge in a shorts suit and Hoka sneakers.
No: Black-tie events, weddings and private clubs
If the invitation is black tie, the golden rules are no denim and no sneakers. The only excuse for bending the footwear rules is destination weddings involving beaches or rainforests.
You can also change into sneakers if you are a member of a wedding party involved in a flash mob dance routine. (You can also say no to flash mob dance routines.)
Yes: When you’re in your 90s
People with declining mobility can find greater stability in sneakers than stiff leather shoes with less chance of slipping on smooth soles. Once you start “having falls” instead of “falling over”, embrace the springy sole.
No: Dress socks and sneakers
Swap sheer socks for sports socks. Please.
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