Former Canadian PM Justin Trudeau faces backlash after 'disrespectful' clothing choice during King Charles' royal visit

Former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau has been criticised over his outfit choice during King Charles III's royal visit this week.

King Charles and Queen Camilla touched down in Canada earlier this week for a two-day visit in which Charles formally opened parliament on Tuesday (27 May).

In a historical speech to the Senate in Ottawa - written on the advice of Canada’s new government -, Charles spoke of the 'critical moment' the country faces.

“Today, Canada faces another critical moment. Democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination and freedom are values which Canadians hold dear, and ones which the government is determined to protect," he said.

“The system of open global trade that, while not perfect, has helped to deliver prosperity for Canadians for decades, is changing. Canada’s relationships with its partners are also changing.

"We must be clear-eyed: the world is a more dangerous and uncertain place than at any point since the Second World War. Canada is facing challenges that are unprecedented in our lifetimes.”

People were quick to comment on Trudeau's shoes (Chris Jackson - Pool/Getty Images)

Despite the historical nature of Charles' visit, with the royal being the only monarch in over 50 years to open parliament in Canada, many people were distracted over Trudeau's choice of footwear.

The event was, of course, pretty formal, with guests and politicians seen in smart dress and suits.

And while Trudeau could also be seen in a shirt, tie and blazer jacket, his choice of footwear left some people confused.

The former PM raised eyebrows when he was seen wearing a turquoise pair of Adidas Gazelle trainers.

The sneakers featured an eye-catching orange stripe and were an unusual choice for such a formal occasion.

In fact, many said it was 'disrespectful' considering King Charles was visiting.

Some said it was 'disrespectful' (Chris Jackson - Pool/Getty Images)

"Looks a little disrespectful," one person wrote.

While another added: "Justin Trudeau is not only at the throne speech but wearing the most interesting footwear you wouldn't expect him to wear and I'm just going to sit back and watch with some popcorn."

A third said: "Trudeau felt it was appropriate to wear those shoes to the Throne Speech?"

Meanwhile, a fourth commented: "Justin Trudeau’s shoes, today, at Parliament!!"

And a fifth added: "The lack of respect and professionalism is abhorrent."

King Charles and Queen Camilla visited Canada this week (Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Others didn't take offense, however, with another person claiming it wasn't a big deal.

One wrote: "The rest of us think they’re great."

Another said: "I really don't care which shoes Justin Trudeau is wearing."

Tyla has reached out to Trudeau's reps for comment.