Donald Trump’s custom presidential shirt causes a stir

WHILE the internet was losing it over this picture of Donald Trump, another subtle detail whipped his critics into a frenzy.

WHILE the internet was losing it over Donald Trump’s personal notes at a “listening session” with survivors of the Florida high school shooting, some noticed a bizarre quirk in the US President’s clothing.

In the debate-stirring close-up image that surfaced on Thursday, Mr Trump clearly has the number 45 embroidered into his shirt’s crisp, white cuff.

It is presumably a reference to Mr Trump’s prestigious title as the 45th President of the United States. However, critics of the President on social media have reacted negatively to the embroidery — one commentator called it “narcissistic and self-absorbed”.

The notes Mr Trump is holding in the picture also attracted a swift backlash on social media.

The first point states: “What would you most want me to know about your experience?” Other points are obscured but the fifth and final point says simply: “I hear you”.

Many commentators wondered why the President needs notes to remind him to be empathetic. He was also criticised for considering the possibility of arming teachers as a way of protecting students from gunmen.

However, eagle-eyed critics also took aim at Trump over the numbers on his sleeves.

I'm sorry does Trump have "45" embroidered on his sleeve cuffs?? In case he forgets or?

— Squirrels (@JMG_33) February 22, 2018

Notice Trump has hid IQ monogrammed on sleeve of shirt. If it was at least 46, he wouldn't need crib sheet for such simple things to remember. pic.twitter.com/OLsYFwVxZk

— keith hall (@kfhall0852) February 22, 2018

When you have to be reminded to have empathy, and also wear “45” on your sleeve so you don’t forget you’re President. #Trump #FloridaSchoolShooting pic.twitter.com/RMnzoxWzdv

— Zachary Sparks 🌰🗽🌎🏳️‍🌈 (@ZSparks1996) February 22, 2018

It’s actually “Step 45” in Trump’s 102 step instructions on how to dress himself: “45: insert arm in shirt (not jacket) sleeve, labeled ‘45’” https://t.co/bIqjrNegu9

— Iain McNally (@McNastyPrime) February 21, 2018

Mr Trump’s predecessor Barack Obama promoted a T-shirt displaying with his presidential number 44 on his Twitter page back in 2012.

There are even George Bush “43” T-shirts for sale on Amazon. However, it is unclear whether Mr Bush or Mr Obama wore their respective promotional T-shirts.

The perfect t-shirt for 44 days out from the election, and the 43 days to follow: http://t.co/eUul0sXI pic.twitter.com/JkhsDT0r

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) September 24, 2012

And, Mr Trump is certainly not the first to blow his own trumpet through his choice of clothing.

In the sporting world various stars have committed similar numerical crimes against their clothing and possessions.

Tennis legend Roger Federer has stirred debate on several occasions with his shoes. In 2010, he wore Nikes with the skyline of Manhattan and the number five — representing his five US Open wins.

Since then, he has worn shoes with similar symbols representing his various title wins at grand slam competitions such as the Australian Open and Wimbledon. The shoes also bear the legend’s initials.

Roger Federer’s custom shoes in 2010. Source: AFP PHOTO / Timothy Clary.

Shane Warne also made a bold statement in one of his Melbourne homes. In an expensive addition to his palatial property in Brighton, the cricket legend included a 10-car underground garage and a swimming pool emblazoned with Warne’s playing number, 23.

Shane Warne made a statement with one of his properties. Source: Supplied/Third Party Ad Hoc.

There are more elite sports stars who have worn their legacies on their sleeves. Some have even passed it on to their children through their names.

West Indies cricket star Dwayne Bravo named his daughter Dwaynice and sons Dwayne Junior (DJ) and Dwade.

And, two-time world heavyweight boxing champion and entrepreneur George Foreman took it a step further.

The iconic boxer has 10 children, and each of his five sons is named George: George Jr., George III, George IV, George V and George VI.

They are also known by the nicknames “Monk”, “Red”, “Joe” “Big Wheel” and “Little George”. His five daughters are Michi, Georgetta, Freda George, Natalie and Leola.

The criticism of Mr Trump comes after a school shooting on Valentine’s Day at Marjory Stoneman High School in Parkland, Florida killed 17 people. Nineteen-year-old Nikolas Cruz has been charged with 17 counts of premeditated murder.

The shooting has stirred anger among Americans, particularly the families who lost loved ones. Mr Trump listened intently to the raw emotion and pledged action, including the possibility of arming teachers.

Mr Trump said he was considering backing proposals to promote concealed carrying of weapons by trained school employees to respond to campus shootings before law enforcement arrives.