I'm a Trump voter, but that doesn't make me blind -- I thought Michelle looked beautiful at that event. She's done a great job as first Lady.
6
Mrs. Obama knocked it out of the park. I think she looks beautiful!
4
Why is Blake Lively wearing a bathrobe to a state dinner?
6
Why is Blake Lively attending a state dinner?
3
Thank you for the coverage of the Canadian Designers featured at the state dinner. Just to clarify, in Canada we aim to be a multicultural nation, not a melting pot. All peoples, earlier immigrants and the most recent are encouraged to retain their identities and language of their home countries. Our indigenous peoples: First Nations, Metis, and Inuit are reclaiming what was theirs and lost under colonialism. Canada is a beautiful tapestry. We are all made richer in this diversity.
9
Patricia Rocco – that's wonderful!
If only more people would feel the same way here in the US.
If only more people would feel the same way here in the US.
3
What comes to mind when "fashion" is the subject: "The Devil Wore Prada". Ms. Streep, in character, seriously comments on the employment of countless people in this industry. Hence, anyone without an ax to grind may appreciate how these First Ladies contribute to our economy, at least for the super-rich.
1
Whatever but that "royal purple gown with a train and orange detailing on the bodice " is just horrid !!!
6
So agree, it's like the emperor's new clothes all over again. Why would she pick that -- must be her stylist who convinced her.
1
" The hottest first lady in the world" Really? Did we take a vote on that NYP?
All Michelle Obama's dinner appearances are elegant, and amazingly youthful: She can carry off many looks, but remain herself, much like Jacqueline Kennedy in a time past. She obviously enjoys the role of dressing the part and promoting designers who reflect their heritage. Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau seems to be able to carry off the same sort of act, wearing fashion with eclat, promoting Canadian artists, while maintaining her identity as well.
And this may be light but it is a welcome break from local US) politics . . .
And this may be light but it is a welcome break from local US) politics . . .
11
Two great leaders and two great families. So nice to see. I hope the next President can be at least 1/2 as great as Obama. Not sure about inviting Gary Bettman though - he's one of the most hated men in Canada.
5
@New Haven. I agree with you completely.
I wouldn't say "most hated.". He's not that front of mind, let's say...
1
Blake Lively's dress looks exactly like a bathrobe. A designer got paid for that? And she was willing not only to buy it but to wear it to a formal dinner? Wow.
13
EveT: It looked like a bathrobe to me too!
4
Was this before or after the President opined at a conference that Americans should just accept that the Government should have a back door to all of our personal information by stating with a smile: "Americans have become used to the fact that the government can riffle thought their underwear." This from a man who has sworn to protect the Cinstituion of the US which, in fact, provides protection from just that kind of intrusion into our person and property. As a result, I could care what he or his wife wears at a State Dinner!
10
Interesting to note that Mrs. Trudeaus' stylist is none other than Jessica Mulroney scion to the Brown Shoe family and daughter in law of former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney. I find this ironic.
3
hence the constraint-like embroidery.
The dress does not flatter her skin tone, but who cares about skin tone.
The dress has philosophical meaning. Just invert your screen colors and you will see what she means. Also the simpleness is for a US audience reflective of Midwest Canada compared to East Coast Canada. To me it looks like Marigold detail which is also significant.
Other than that kudos to Sara B to being the only one who can sneak a pair of leggings underneath the monkey suit and heels... Then at the end of the evening in two minutes be comfortable and not complain about being in the monkey suit 5 minutes longer and getting out of the heels and monkey suit as soon as possible.
//My opinion after 3 semesters in Home Ec at junior college in Illinois and 1 semester in Iowa. //
The dress has philosophical meaning. Just invert your screen colors and you will see what she means. Also the simpleness is for a US audience reflective of Midwest Canada compared to East Coast Canada. To me it looks like Marigold detail which is also significant.
Other than that kudos to Sara B to being the only one who can sneak a pair of leggings underneath the monkey suit and heels... Then at the end of the evening in two minutes be comfortable and not complain about being in the monkey suit 5 minutes longer and getting out of the heels and monkey suit as soon as possible.
//My opinion after 3 semesters in Home Ec at junior college in Illinois and 1 semester in Iowa. //
1
well, that would explain the fashion disaster Mrs Trudeau is wearing. How could anybody put those colors together, and then design(?) a dress that looks like that??...its like Walmart garlands on sale for Halloween..is there no fashion police anymore?
2
Don't the wives of attendees have last names? Nancy Pelosi's husband does. So does Audie Cornish's.
9
Aside from the dreadful Canadian Fashion on Mrs. Trudeau, we were dazzled in other ways tenfold. BTW, we don't hyphenate our citizens. That is so American of you Ms. Friedman.
1
Anyone wearing the "Canadian Tuxedo" - jeans jacket with jeans?
4
The Obamas mentoring the Trudeaus? The Trudeaus need no mentoring! They are so refreshing. Just leave them alone!
5
Why all the snarky comments about how people looked...they seemed to be enjoying themselves & celebrating friendship...of course there are complicated agendas going on...but lighten up everyone...laugh a little...enjoy life... sunny ways people!!!
13
Well, the article is about fashion.
7
Michelle Obama looked fabulous, she is incredible. Sophie Trudeau - out of all the beautiful dresses in the world and she picked that one? Sorry, it was a flop. Too bad because she is so pretty.
19
AND nowhere was it mentioned that Mrs. Trudeau's stylist is non other than Brian Mulroneys' daughter in law a scion of the Brown's Shoe family. The irony.
1
Well she should fire her immediately. Bad choice of colour, bad bad choice of dress, it doesn't flatter her at all. Maybe Jessica Mulroney's choice is subversive?
8
Two very attractive couples. Nice double date.
As for Blake Lively's dress, I'm just massively confused...silk bathrobe with arms but no shoulders?
As for Blake Lively's dress, I'm just massively confused...silk bathrobe with arms but no shoulders?
11
FYI: In Canada we are taught that our society treats accepts different cultures and new Canadians into our cultural mosaic, where they can be Canadians while still retaining their identities-not a melting pot like this article mentions in the last paragraph. We are taught that the US is the melting pot where newcomers are meant to assimilate.
7
After the kerfuffle over the WH floral designer, I hop someone tells the new designer to throttle back. That mark of Zorro behind the podium was not inspired; 'twas gaudy.
1
OK.... all I want to say -- and thank you for providing a place to say it -- is that Mrs. Obama is flippin' gorgeous! Beautiful, graceful, and boy can she wear this fantastic dress!
65
Sorry, in Canada we don't call people Romanian-Canadians or Taiwanese-Canadians. We call them Canadians.
50
In the US, I don't call anyone African-Scottish-Welsh-German-American to account for 160,000 years of human migration from central Africa.
1
We used to do that in the United States, too. If you were a citizen you were an American.
2
Thanks, it is so more simple, a Canadian is an Canadian.
2
These photos of the Obama's & Trudeau's together gives me hope. As an American, it's not a lot of hope, but it's definitely hope.
27
We had our little spat in 1812 when we tried to invade our neighbor to the north, but ended up with the White House burned to the ground.
We're in trouble if we can't get along with Canada.
We're in trouble if we can't get along with Canada.
11
That is the ugliest dress I have seen in a very, very long time.. That poor woman, who put her up to that? I am a color consultant and professor of color and color theory. We just finished Finals today, where students create their own projects, often mixing up different color schemes and looking to see how much dissonance they can create. The students are good, but noone came even close to coming up with this awful mess. (And Michelle's isn't much better, either.)
13
Ummm, I have to say, I enjoyed the fact that the dresses were different and had such great energy.
7
one looks like a straight jacket en Mrs. O. was told it was going to be a beach event.
Jeffrey - Agree with your comment except for the slam in parenthesis at the end - Michelle Obama is beautiful and looked gorgeous in that gown)
1
th menu
Dinner Menu
First Course
Alaskan Halibut “Casseroles” with Cepes, Asparagus, Chanterelles,
Baby Onions, and Lardon and Herbed Butter
Second Course
Roasted Apricot Galette with Appalachian Cheese,
Heirloom Lettuces, Pine Nut Crisps
Pence Chardonnay “Sebastiano” 2013
Main Course
Baby Lamb Chops with Yukon Potato Dauphinoise
and Fricassee of Spring Vegetables
Cliff Lede “High Fidelity” 2012
Dessert
Maple Pecan Cake with Cocoa Nib Wafer,
Butterscotch Swirl Ice Cream
Chateau Chantal Ice Wine 2013
hose wanting a keepsake to something you werent invited to
https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/docs/canada_state_dinner_...
so, what are you all having for dinner tonight
Dinner Menu
First Course
Alaskan Halibut “Casseroles” with Cepes, Asparagus, Chanterelles,
Baby Onions, and Lardon and Herbed Butter
Second Course
Roasted Apricot Galette with Appalachian Cheese,
Heirloom Lettuces, Pine Nut Crisps
Pence Chardonnay “Sebastiano” 2013
Main Course
Baby Lamb Chops with Yukon Potato Dauphinoise
and Fricassee of Spring Vegetables
Cliff Lede “High Fidelity” 2012
Dessert
Maple Pecan Cake with Cocoa Nib Wafer,
Butterscotch Swirl Ice Cream
Chateau Chantal Ice Wine 2013
hose wanting a keepsake to something you werent invited to
https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/docs/canada_state_dinner_...
so, what are you all having for dinner tonight
4
depressing how many otherwise sensible people are dazzled by this insubstantial pageant
3
Not insubstantial at all. Canada is the U.s's number one supplier of oil. For example
Mrs. Trudeau's frock is sort of a 60's or early 70's retro look, (think Cher). Very Hawaiian Airlines stewardess-like. Goes well with beehive hair-dos and black Cleopatra eyeliner. Not the most flattering choice color wise for her skin/hair tones.
16
Not sure how these outfits got into the Fashion & Style section. Just because you can afford an expensive gown does not mean you look good in it. The singer who performed is just about the only one who dressed herself to advantage. The rest look frumpy or worse.
1
I have been to Canada many times and find them to be among the nicest people I've met in my travels. Some of them stopped on the road in the middle of the night to lead us where we were trying to go. they have a real sense of community that is sorely lacking here with the undue focus on money and status. We could learn a lot from them
36
You're from NY, so that would explain it.
1
true, but the dress and the coif are bad bad.
2
Like anywhere in the world...we're not all nice...some of us are naughty too...
3
And their cuisine: meat, cooked meat, cooked meat with salt. The variety is unending. (All in good fun, and with credit to the National Lampoon, a very long time ago.)
1
Was it necessary to include the hyphenated nationalities of the Canadian designers? One is originally from Romania, the other originally from Taiwan. Yes, that's true. But so what? They're Canadian now. What was the purpose/point? They're Canadian. End of story.
14
I think it was simply information to inform the influences in their design.
5
How do these designers identify themselves?
4
Susan Collins' outfit is pretty awful.
7
One commenter said:
Michele Obama is stunning; so is the wife of the US Ambassador to Canada. The others, not so much.
Have you ever heard such an assessment made about a group of men in public life?
Michele Obama is stunning; so is the wife of the US Ambassador to Canada. The others, not so much.
Have you ever heard such an assessment made about a group of men in public life?
14
Ridiculous comment. Men are currently not permitted by societal norms to dress in anything but the same Tuxedo attire. If a bunch of men deviated from this norm, you better believe there would be comments about it, and probably negative.
8
There has been continual comment about Justin Trudeau especially his age and his extreme good looks or shall we say....hotness.
9
The orange strips are awful and cut her body in two, where she needs all the length she can get. The purple makes her podgy. Mrs. O. her dress is superb!!
Now, how do all these designers get the average Canadian woman out of their track suits and all weather jackets into something more ladylike?
Now, how do all these designers get the average Canadian woman out of their track suits and all weather jackets into something more ladylike?
17
Her dress is beautiful. Have you ever been to Canada or are you simply being antagonistic?
8
Sorry I agree, that dress does nothing for her, out of all the beautiful dresses in the world and she picks that one, she is so pretty and it doesn't do her justice.
4
"ladylike"? Seriously? What, pray tell, does that mean--most likely coming from a man-- in 2016? Wear what you like, ladies, gentlemen and everyone in between.
3
Once again, who foots the bills, save the money for the American homeless!!!
6
all courtesy th american taxpayer
thx again, suckers
btw, th tab for this dinner : $ 300-000 - $ 500,000
that isnt a typo either
thx again, suckers
btw, th tab for this dinner : $ 300-000 - $ 500,000
that isnt a typo either
1
I believe designers contribute the dress for the publicity
3
i was roundly criticised as a party pooper for stating th same sentiment
its not insulting to welcome a guest to a modest meal
th company id supposed to be more important than th food
i think people like gandhi, jesus, and thoreau might have felt th same way
its not insulting to welcome a guest to a modest meal
th company id supposed to be more important than th food
i think people like gandhi, jesus, and thoreau might have felt th same way
1
I love the Bernie Sanders look that Mike Myers is adopting, or is that what he really looks like now?
7
A glaring omission on the guest list was the Mackenzie Brothers. Why would they be omitted for their seminal work, known as Strange Brew?
Hosers.
Hosers.
4
Besides the diplomatic corps, the largest percentage of 'guests' at events for Trudea's visit were from the financial sector, including Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein and JP Morgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon. The White House is supposed to be "the people's house." Why so many bilionaire financiers? Why such a huge Hollywood contingent? (the 3rd largest number) Mike Myers, Lorne Michaels, Blake Lively, Sandra Oh, Michael J. Fox..... ? What has Whoppi Goldberg ever done she's often at these kinds of events? Anna Wintour??? Seriously?
I applaud including Jhumpa Lahiri and Maya Lin. Why not invite more writers, painters, architects, curators, scholars, dancers? Where are our finest scientists? The emphasis on MONEY and GLITZ is bewildering when there are so many accomplished Americans outside finance and entertainment.
What if Eric Kandel, Kehinde Wiley, Richard Serra, Louise Erdrich, Yusek Komunyakaa, Bruce Nauman, Cindy Sherman, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Kara Walker, Amanda Hunt, Lucy Lippard, Viet Thanh Nguyen, Thomas Pynchon, Junot Diaz, Robert Irwin and Don Delillo had been invited to these shindigs instead of Lloyd Blankfein, Whoopi Goldberg and Anna Wintour?
The Republicans routinely trash arts, scholarship & education as unnecessary & unimportant in our national life. Looking at the guest lists for the Trudeau events, couldn't the W.H. have tried harder to find accomplished Americans in other fields? Do those who drew up the guest lists need to get out more?
I applaud including Jhumpa Lahiri and Maya Lin. Why not invite more writers, painters, architects, curators, scholars, dancers? Where are our finest scientists? The emphasis on MONEY and GLITZ is bewildering when there are so many accomplished Americans outside finance and entertainment.
What if Eric Kandel, Kehinde Wiley, Richard Serra, Louise Erdrich, Yusek Komunyakaa, Bruce Nauman, Cindy Sherman, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Kara Walker, Amanda Hunt, Lucy Lippard, Viet Thanh Nguyen, Thomas Pynchon, Junot Diaz, Robert Irwin and Don Delillo had been invited to these shindigs instead of Lloyd Blankfein, Whoopi Goldberg and Anna Wintour?
The Republicans routinely trash arts, scholarship & education as unnecessary & unimportant in our national life. Looking at the guest lists for the Trudeau events, couldn't the W.H. have tried harder to find accomplished Americans in other fields? Do those who drew up the guest lists need to get out more?
30
And before I get jumped on, don't try to tell me Lloyd Blankfein, Jamie Dimon, James Taylor, Whoopi Goldberg and Blake Lively are Canadian.
9
President Obama is merely returning the favor by having invited Lloyd Blankfein and Jamie Dimon. Follow the money!
4
The WH invited a lot of Canadians/people born in Canada--Lorne Michaels, Sandra Oh, Ryan Reynolds, Mike Myers, etc. I agree, leave the financiers in NY. Esp. Jamie Dion.
8
I love Canadians, but hate to point this out . . . there is not exactly a robust "Canadian fashion industry." Mr. Matis, the reason Mrs Trudeau wore your clothes twice in one day is . . . because they aren't that many Canadian-designed clothes to go around.
2
Really? All of us? And have you been to Montreal or Vancouver lately?
8
You comment on Canadian fashion from Tampa? Trust us their are many, many highly acclaimed designers in Canada. And BTW we are not hyphenated Canadians, just plain Canadians.
9
All I know is...this is the most relaxed I've seen President Obama in years!!! I love it.
76
Call me old fashioned but I dont find the gowns flattering. Even on a super model they wouldn't look great - the design themselves are not extraordinary. As a minority I am always glad to see minority designers get exposure. But Michelle Obama looks far better with hair swept up, the strapless or one strap dresses aren't really flattering as for Mrs Trudeau...unflattering colors,design, etc. This is just my opinion I know but am I the only one who finds ubiquitous strapless dresses boring?
17
There used to be an etiquette guideline that you wear covered shoulders and modest neckline (no cleavage) to a formal dinner. Something about ruining people's appetite (for food) with too much flesh exposed. I guess that guideline has gone the way of the rotary dial telephone.
2
It would be good if the men's fashion got a bit of a nod also.
I remember when Reagan broke with the conventional dark blue and wore tan and brown suits! The rack at Macy's took on new life!
I remember when Reagan broke with the conventional dark blue and wore tan and brown suits! The rack at Macy's took on new life!
8
your post has convinced me more than anything that life is indeed worth living
8
Reagan also wore some pretty awful plaid suites, but it was the 80s. He was able to rock the tan, for sure, though. It used to be not uncommon but remember about a year ago Obama tried at a press conference and you would have thought he walked in wearing a jeans and a t-shirt.
9
It would be good if the men actually tried to be fashionable, rather than homogeneous and incredibly boring. There's nothing to nod to, it is all cookie-cutter and appears to indicate men don't really care about fashion at all. But maybe they are afraid of being trivialized the objectified the way the women in this article are being, and want to have be taken more seriously. If so, perhaps there is a lesson in there for women.
4
I love is the way the designers from Canada are described as Taiwanese-Canadian, Vietnamese-Canadian and Romanian-Canadian, etc.
Why? Because we have welcomed immigrants and don't want to build a wall. Many of us had parents, grandparents or relatives who came from somewhere else. Maybe after November we'll be talking about American-Canadian designers!
Why? Because we have welcomed immigrants and don't want to build a wall. Many of us had parents, grandparents or relatives who came from somewhere else. Maybe after November we'll be talking about American-Canadian designers!
41
It goes without saying, given that also refer to French Canadians, and English Canadians. Its always been like that.
1
Why do Canadians always assume everyone in the US is a right wing nut job?
Give a Canadian a chance to be smug and passive aggressively anti US and they will take it!
Give a Canadian a chance to be smug and passive aggressively anti US and they will take it!
2
Actually it's the other way around, when it comes to immigration the US is more generous and by far.
(Toronto Star)...On the question of whether Canadian citizenship and status is “secure from state arbitrariness,” Canada scores a meager 23 points, well below Australia, New Zealand, the United States or the European average.
(Toronto Star)...On the question of whether Canadian citizenship and status is “secure from state arbitrariness,” Canada scores a meager 23 points, well below Australia, New Zealand, the United States or the European average.
6
What's going to happen to this "First Lady Fashion" segment when Bill Clinton becomes First Husband?
15
An important step in gender equality??
23
If only we had these two adults in charge for another four years!
78
Thank God, that our sane election laws limit ANY President -- no matter how popular or unpopular, in peace or in wartime -- to ONLY two terms.
Term limits: a good thing.
Term limits: a good thing.
4
Given the history of the recent two term presidents we should limit presidents to one term only. Presidents are more or less lame ducks the second term anyway.
For Senate, too - Bernie's been there for 30 years.
This parade of fashion is truly horrifying. The gown worn by Mrs. Grégoire Trudeau to the state dinner looks like it was thrown together by a couple of junior high students in an Akron sewing class. Blake Lively appears to be wearing a bathrobe, and it goes downhill from there. It's like the worst stereotypes you could imagine about Canadian fashion being made real.
I moreover agree with the numerous commenters who point out that women are being trivialized here, shunted into the background, treated as arm candy, and not even tasty arm candy.
I moreover agree with the numerous commenters who point out that women are being trivialized here, shunted into the background, treated as arm candy, and not even tasty arm candy.
14
The first lady of Canada has always said nice things about YOUR clothes. Just because you don't agree with her taste doesn't mean she has none.
14
Tasty arm candy!!!?
Wow Devino! How very eloquent, not to mention kind, considerate and truly respectful! Bravo!
Wow Devino! How very eloquent, not to mention kind, considerate and truly respectful! Bravo!
3
Hilarious.
You say women shouldn't be treated like arm candy.
Then you diss their dresses in detail.
Pot, meet kettle.
You say women shouldn't be treated like arm candy.
Then you diss their dresses in detail.
Pot, meet kettle.
17
OK, maybe a little fashion in the White House is a nice break from Republican primary vitriol. But in an era when women are heads of state, cabinet secretaries, and presidential candidates, I have to wonder about a focus on "First Lady fashion." Seems like an unfortunate throw-back attitude making women seem like decorative items ...
39
In the 17 photo red carpet slide show from page 1 today most of the women at the state dinner look like they are wearing lingerie--bathrobes or nightgowns. Michele Obama is stunning; so is the wife of the US Ambassador to Canada. The others, not so much.
25
Sophie's dress seemed like a long tight T shirt with a strange orange something or other on it. I have a flannel bathrobe just like Blake Lively's. Most of the dresses looked like geriatric sacks. I hope nobody paid a lot of money for them. How about some classic lines! Anybody remember Jackie?
3
What a welcome break from an election season where a planet fate hangs in the balance because of a failing economic system and a compromised ecology.
I thought of many things as the NYT tried to find out what to call Prime Minister Trudeau's wife.
When my wife and I moved to the city where I was born and grew up, she thought she had it made. She had a PhD and would not have to decide on Miss, Mrs., Ms., Madame and Mademoiselle, She was Dr. first name moe's surname. She was wrong. All he IDs had to be changed to a name she was known by a long time ago.
When Sophie Gregoire left Montreal less than a year ago she had known only one name Sophie Gregoire.
When she moved to Ottawa suddenly she was Madame, Mademoiselle, Mrs., Miss, Ms, Sophie Trudeau, Trudeau Gregoire, Gregoire Trudeau, Gregoire.
When Quebec made women full citizens equal in all respects to men I wonder if they realized the chaos that would ensue for women entering and leaving the Province whose very identity would change as they entered and left the Province?
I thought of many things as the NYT tried to find out what to call Prime Minister Trudeau's wife.
When my wife and I moved to the city where I was born and grew up, she thought she had it made. She had a PhD and would not have to decide on Miss, Mrs., Ms., Madame and Mademoiselle, She was Dr. first name moe's surname. She was wrong. All he IDs had to be changed to a name she was known by a long time ago.
When Sophie Gregoire left Montreal less than a year ago she had known only one name Sophie Gregoire.
When she moved to Ottawa suddenly she was Madame, Mademoiselle, Mrs., Miss, Ms, Sophie Trudeau, Trudeau Gregoire, Gregoire Trudeau, Gregoire.
When Quebec made women full citizens equal in all respects to men I wonder if they realized the chaos that would ensue for women entering and leaving the Province whose very identity would change as they entered and left the Province?
8
I am an American, born & raised in the USA. I live very close to the Canadian border and my English is fluent. My French isn't very good but I believe this story is written in my native tongue.
I also have a background in the fashion industry and speak "fashionese" pretty well.
Yet I find I need an interpreter to understand this comment.
What the heck are you trying to say, please?
I hope you'll forgive my ignorance, eh?
I also have a background in the fashion industry and speak "fashionese" pretty well.
Yet I find I need an interpreter to understand this comment.
What the heck are you trying to say, please?
I hope you'll forgive my ignorance, eh?
4
Helen,
Sophie Greagoire has known only one name her whole life Sophie Gregoire.
In Quebec she is not Mrs Gregoire, Miss Gregoire or Ms Gregoire or any French equivalent she is Sophie Gregoire.
In Quebec she is not Mrs Trudeau, Mrs Gregoire Trudeau, Mrs. Gregoire or Mrs Trudeau Gregoire, she is Sophie Gregoire.
Ottawa is in Ontario where women are Miss, Mrs and Ms and women assume their spouses name or a hyphenated name when they wed.
Sorry about my failure to inform.
Sophie Greagoire has known only one name her whole life Sophie Gregoire.
In Quebec she is not Mrs Gregoire, Miss Gregoire or Ms Gregoire or any French equivalent she is Sophie Gregoire.
In Quebec she is not Mrs Trudeau, Mrs Gregoire Trudeau, Mrs. Gregoire or Mrs Trudeau Gregoire, she is Sophie Gregoire.
Ottawa is in Ontario where women are Miss, Mrs and Ms and women assume their spouses name or a hyphenated name when they wed.
Sorry about my failure to inform.
9
You know, Moe, I've read that before -- that Quebec law (but apparently not the rest of the provinces), it is forbidden for a woman to take her husband's name -- even if she wants to.
Frankly, I think that is weird, unfair and overly complicated. After all, her birth name is probably her FATHER'S last name anyways. And why CAN'T your name be anything you want? In the US, you can legally change your name to any name you want (provided it's not obscene or an attempt defraud anyone as to your identity). You could, for example, legally become "Montreal Moe".
If Sophie Gregoire (or Mrs. Trudeau) can't be called Ms. or Mrs anything....what do they call you? You cannot be called "Mr. Moe" by a sales clerk? Everyone in Montreal calls everyone else by their first names? Or just by their last names?
I think it is fine for a woman to keep her maiden name....IF SHE WANTS. I kept my maiden name. My daughter, however, chose to take her husband's last name -- HER choice. What justification do Quebec citizens have for being denied the right to choose their own last name????
Frankly, I think that is weird, unfair and overly complicated. After all, her birth name is probably her FATHER'S last name anyways. And why CAN'T your name be anything you want? In the US, you can legally change your name to any name you want (provided it's not obscene or an attempt defraud anyone as to your identity). You could, for example, legally become "Montreal Moe".
If Sophie Gregoire (or Mrs. Trudeau) can't be called Ms. or Mrs anything....what do they call you? You cannot be called "Mr. Moe" by a sales clerk? Everyone in Montreal calls everyone else by their first names? Or just by their last names?
I think it is fine for a woman to keep her maiden name....IF SHE WANTS. I kept my maiden name. My daughter, however, chose to take her husband's last name -- HER choice. What justification do Quebec citizens have for being denied the right to choose their own last name????
3
The first photo shows how Michelle Obama and Sophie Grégoire check each other out. I find this kind of behavior between women sad.
8
When women kiss it always reminds one of prize fighters shaking hands
H. L. Mencken
H. L. Mencken
1
i knew a renate from graz, austria many years ago
its a rare name w a rare spelling
that wouldnt be you, would it
its a rare name w a rare spelling
that wouldnt be you, would it
Renate, how do you know that is what they are doing? The photographer happened to get a shot of Michelle looking down and one of Sophie looking to the side. Michelle Obama has no reason to "check out" Sophie Gregoire. Michelle Obama has her own style and beauty - she doesn't need to be in competition with anyone else.
20
Nearly all the Canadian designers mentioned were Canadian by citizenship but from elsewhere culturally: China, Turkey, Iran, etc. Not that that's a bad thing--Canada was said to be a salad bowl to our melting pot. Is that still true?
(Mrs. Obama's choice of hyphenated-American designers was deliberate to reference the guests and their culture. The Canadians were mentioned more to say that they find they must leave Canada to showcase themselves, or be ignored.)
(Mrs. Obama's choice of hyphenated-American designers was deliberate to reference the guests and their culture. The Canadians were mentioned more to say that they find they must leave Canada to showcase themselves, or be ignored.)
8
State dinners are a lovely ritual. Everyone looks beautiful. It's fun to get dressed up. If you find this frivolous - lighten up! There is way worse "frivolity" in the Republican primary!
52
Ahhh! How fun it is to see classy civilized humans being nice and enjoying themselves.
87
Michelle Obama looks absolutely stunning in everything she wears. She and her advisors obviously have exquisite taste.
And this is just a role she is required to play. She appears to me to be far more concerned with substantive matters like obesity, nutrition, and childrens' health.
On top of being an excellent mother.
A great First Lady.
And this is just a role she is required to play. She appears to me to be far more concerned with substantive matters like obesity, nutrition, and childrens' health.
On top of being an excellent mother.
A great First Lady.
250
As a Canadian and an American, I am proud of both my countries, but in looking through the photos of all the first ladies at state dinners, Mrs. Obama always stands out as the best dressed. Not sure about Sophie's dress, but she is a stunning woman and her husband, who I watched grow up in Canada, has turned out to be handsome, charming and decent. So nice to see Harper gone and sunny ways coming to Canada. I am glad that the president is mentoring the Prime Minister, the Obamas have been a class act that will be hard to follow.
212
Well, there is something to be said about young and fit, First Families. They seem less staid, stuffy and formal.
While at the same time, have so much more mass appeal. We know that the FLOTUS attended the same Ivy League college and has the same law degree as her husband. And she's as tall as he is. His equal in every way.
And they've been less scandal ridden too.
How refreshing.
There was nothing wrong with having a couple in the WH that actually personified cool, while also being so much more accessible than any others that I can remember.
The Canadian PM and his wife are quite the rock stars. I don't have a problem with that either.
While at the same time, have so much more mass appeal. We know that the FLOTUS attended the same Ivy League college and has the same law degree as her husband. And she's as tall as he is. His equal in every way.
And they've been less scandal ridden too.
How refreshing.
There was nothing wrong with having a couple in the WH that actually personified cool, while also being so much more accessible than any others that I can remember.
The Canadian PM and his wife are quite the rock stars. I don't have a problem with that either.
41
Oh please. Trudeau has accomplished nothing. What does "sunny ways" even mean? He is a FORMER SNOWBOARDER -- he makes Donald Trump look like the most accomplished and experienced candidate imaginable.
He was elected for his movie star looks, and a famous last name -- nothing else. That is actually really, really pathetic.
He was elected for his movie star looks, and a famous last name -- nothing else. That is actually really, really pathetic.
6
If you're from Canada, I smell sour grapes. If you're from the US, you missed the memo - Trudeau won a MAJORITY. Canadians voted for far more than an empty suit.
9
Michelle, dahling! You look FABULOUS! Oh, my. Oh, my. Oh, my. . . .
60
With all due respect, Michelle Obama is the "hottest First Lady in the World." Hands down.
103
Forty-five years ago the "hottest" wife of a world leader was Justin's mother Margaret Trudeau. Very pretty. She liked to Disco dance too - once even at Studio 54 in New York.
18
Nice to see my senator looking very sharp! Proud of you, Jon.
8
I love Mrs. Obama's dress...she looks so classy and pretty.
67
As a Sanders supporter I can't wait to see photographs from his state dinner. I have a feeling that it will look a lot like one of my favorite paintings- 'The Peasant Wedding' by Bruegel the Elder.
Alas, if only all state dinners had the rustic charm of that painting.
Alas, if only all state dinners had the rustic charm of that painting.
14
Wouldn't Canadian style have to be "terminally polite?"
7
Sorry
24
My hope is that over dinner Mr. Trudeau explained how Canada achieved universal health care and paid maternity leave.
211
By raising taxes Anne.
13
Google "Tommy Douglas" ...widely considered one of Canada's greatest Canadians...he was a prairie Premier, and he dragged universal health into Canadian legislation after the depression, with doctors and politicians kicking and screaming all the way. It's never easy....but it's worth the fight.
34
anne.....Canada didn't slaughter all its great 1960's liberal progressive the way right-wing America did.
Nor did FOX-Henhouse News and Rush Limbaugh's hate radio brain damage the Canadian citizenry the way they do here in America in order to maintain the proper right-wing dementia.
Nor did FOX-Henhouse News and Rush Limbaugh's hate radio brain damage the Canadian citizenry the way they do here in America in order to maintain the proper right-wing dementia.
89
Canada is beautiful country and their people ain't so bad either!
53
Tory PM Brian Mulroney's daughter-in-law is our PM's current hairstylists? That's pretty wild. What does our former PM think about it? In his successful political career he regularly blamed Canada's ongoing economic problems on the Liberal Party and Justin's father Pierre. Harsh words. Also, Mulroney's Free Trade agreement saved Canada from its economic troubles at the time. What does Brian Mulroney think of his daughter-in-law's professional success styling the star leader's wife's hair?
3
She is a fashion stylist. Did you even read the article?
6
With hair you cannot cut corners! and Must cross party lines.
1
NOT hairstylist, but fashion stylist.
4
That's Canadian fashion? I didn't see any winter clothes.
1
When I read the words "Canadian style," I couldn't help but wonder what Don Cherry would have worn to the state dinner. (Don Cherry is known for the flamboyant suits he wears each week during the Coach's Corner intermission segment, on Hockey Night in Canada.)
12
It is truly a sad state affairs for the National Hockey League and professional hockey in general when you have to explain that for the American readership. Thanks a lot Gary Bettman!!!
3
O Canada !
85
To the naysayers: fashion is culture, and culture is a deep, deep part of the heritage and wealth of a society. And these dinners are in part a display and recognition and sharing of that, from the dinner menu to the clothing to the entertainments.
My only regret about formal affairs such as these, is that the men, by long tradition, have so little they can "say" in this beautiful language. If either Mr. Trudeau or Mr. Obama were to have worn a boutonniere, that would have been about the pinnacle of daring style they could get away with, I am afraid.
But what can one do? That's the somewhat curtailed culture we have, such as it is. I for one will be grateful for the overt expressions of rich culture we do have, gender (and office) segregated though it is.
My only regret about formal affairs such as these, is that the men, by long tradition, have so little they can "say" in this beautiful language. If either Mr. Trudeau or Mr. Obama were to have worn a boutonniere, that would have been about the pinnacle of daring style they could get away with, I am afraid.
But what can one do? That's the somewhat curtailed culture we have, such as it is. I for one will be grateful for the overt expressions of rich culture we do have, gender (and office) segregated though it is.
18
Both are wearing lapel pins which we only get to see on edge.
1
actually you have to read different newspapers. Hunter Tootoo, ᕼᐊᓐᑕ ᑐᑐ wore a sealskin tie. His father is an Inuk. He is the Fisheries Minister in Canada. Note to animal activists. It is not illegal. It's just hard to be vegan in the arctic.
10
Justin Trudeau's father was famous for wearing a rose in the lapel - he would never wear anything that was anything like a copy of his beloved father's attire.
And he will never pirouette before or after an audience with the queen.
And he will never pirouette before or after an audience with the queen.
Becomes a runway would be a far better headline than "becomes a cat walk" especially with that particular lead photo of Michelle Obama.
19
Grant Hill looks fantastic!
7
Let's elect our first woman president and shift the focus to women in leadership, not women in dresses!
120
jaamhaynes: If Hillary prevails and becomes the first woman President will women attending State dinners be wearing pantsuits?
Or will Hillary change course and wear a gown at the State of the Union? Just curious and unimportant!
Or will Hillary change course and wear a gown at the State of the Union? Just curious and unimportant!
Fear not, the subject will soon be President Clinton's latest pants suit.
I'm surprised the Prime Minister didn't wear a "Canadian tuxedo" to the State dinner. Talk about a fashion statement!
7
A "Canadian tuxedo?" A Hudson's Bay coat?
2
By the way, Hudsons Bay OWNS Saks Fifth Ave.
3
No, it's a denim jacket (or shirt) and jeans, ideally in the same shade of blue. Denim on denim.
(Not really that common, but for some reason the phrase has stuck - you can google it.)
(Not really that common, but for some reason the phrase has stuck - you can google it.)
2
From your photo journal only actors, politicians and sports were invited. Guess America doesn't recognize businessmen, scientist, inventors, farmers, etc. Or is it just the photographers who can't see them?
5
I think the theme of the night was to stress those things that U.S. and Canada share, like the NHL and NBA. It's kind of hard to think about Canada without thinking about hockey. A lot of the politicians were from border states, e.g., Maine, Vermont, Minnesota and Montana. You can find the entire guest list somewhere if you really want to know.
23
Washington Post always publishes the full guest list, which did in fact include business people.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/reliable-source/wp/2016/03/10/comple...
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/reliable-source/wp/2016/03/10/comple...
15
And artists -- musicians, visual artists, filmmakers.
3
I doubt there is a Sophie Gregoire Trudeau or a Sophie Trudeau. Here in Quebec unless she went through a legal change of name she is was and always will be Sophie Gregoire.
I understand the challenge for the US media but here in Quebec you are a full human being when you are born and marriage does not change your identity.
I understand the challenge for the US media but here in Quebec you are a full human being when you are born and marriage does not change your identity.
105
@Moe: if you were American, you would know that there is absolutely no law that compels a woman to change her name when she marries -- not now, not 50 years ago -- never.
It is a CUSTOM, but it is not the law. I never changed my name at marriage, and so I did....nothing. I kept using my original birth name and it is my legal name on Social Security records, Driver's license and so forth.
My daughter, on the other hand, had to go through a lot of rigamarole and some (minor) costs to change her name legally to that of her new husband -- had to go to the SS offices with her marriage license -- to the DMV to get a new driver's license. She had to reregister to vote in her new name. It's not a huge onerous burden, but it has to be done to establish this is your real legal name.
If you don't change your name, NOTHING whatsoever is required.
So your spiteful nasty accusation that American women are "not full human beings at birth" (!!!) is 100% false.
I am unsure from what you write if a woman in Quebec COULD legally change her name to that of her husband -- or not.
But I can absolutely tell you that in the USA, it is NOT automatic and it never was (I was married for the first time 39 years ago!) and nobody is compelled to take on their husband's last name -- nor to be addressed as Mrs. if they do not want it.
If Mrs. Trudeau does not wish to be called Mrs. Trudeau -- why doesn't she insist on Gregoire? Is she afraid someone out there won't think she's really married?
It is a CUSTOM, but it is not the law. I never changed my name at marriage, and so I did....nothing. I kept using my original birth name and it is my legal name on Social Security records, Driver's license and so forth.
My daughter, on the other hand, had to go through a lot of rigamarole and some (minor) costs to change her name legally to that of her new husband -- had to go to the SS offices with her marriage license -- to the DMV to get a new driver's license. She had to reregister to vote in her new name. It's not a huge onerous burden, but it has to be done to establish this is your real legal name.
If you don't change your name, NOTHING whatsoever is required.
So your spiteful nasty accusation that American women are "not full human beings at birth" (!!!) is 100% false.
I am unsure from what you write if a woman in Quebec COULD legally change her name to that of her husband -- or not.
But I can absolutely tell you that in the USA, it is NOT automatic and it never was (I was married for the first time 39 years ago!) and nobody is compelled to take on their husband's last name -- nor to be addressed as Mrs. if they do not want it.
If Mrs. Trudeau does not wish to be called Mrs. Trudeau -- why doesn't she insist on Gregoire? Is she afraid someone out there won't think she's really married?
3
Good point!
1
It is in fact illegal to take your male spouse's last name in Québec. Just the way they do things here in a society that passes a lot of communal legislation that would seem very alien to Americans. In the rest of (English) Canada, it's like the US — no laws and a higher proportion of women take their husband's last name, or hyphenate two last names. Sophie Gregoire has suddenly become Gregoire-Trudeau to pacify more conservative-minded English Canadians. I'm not sure why as we had a Conservative Prime Minister in the 1980s whose wife used her own name, although it caused controversy at the time (Joe Clark & Maureen McTeer). Incidentally, Quebec does have the highest rate of common-law marriages in Canada & the US.
And yes, the question remains: if Justin Trudeau is a feminist, why is his wife now using his name for the first time in her life? Because he's a Cdn Liberal, who traditionally campaign from the left and govern from the right.
And yes, the question remains: if Justin Trudeau is a feminist, why is his wife now using his name for the first time in her life? Because he's a Cdn Liberal, who traditionally campaign from the left and govern from the right.
1
I hope Garry Trudeau of Doonesbury fame was at least invited!
9
Stunning dress, Mrs. Obama. Take that, Mr./Mrs. Trump!
110
I personally prefer Ms Trudau's dress over Mrs Obama. It seems to be more elegant and fits the event while Mrs Obama looks like she is on her way to the beach.
4
proms and weddings aren't on the public dime, unless they're military
1
Always with the sleeveless look, even to the State of the Union addresses. Yes we know Mrs. Obama you're buff and you work out................ALOT.
We get it.
We get it.
6
I would have preferred the dress without the trim. It's a bit much.
3
america fought a revolution to get rid of royalty
and here it is, better than ever
this is what makes a mockery of voting
if your leaders cared about you, really, theyd order in a pizza or chinese
not make state dinners fpr $ 100,000 +
and here it is, better than ever
this is what makes a mockery of voting
if your leaders cared about you, really, theyd order in a pizza or chinese
not make state dinners fpr $ 100,000 +
12
It is very obvious how business and politics works since the beginning of time, it is about relationships and these get together s are needed to better foster understanding close up. BTW the last one was 20 years ago with Canada. Small price to pay for our biggest trade partner and ally. Go have a barbecue with your next door neighbor.
72
While you're at it get rid of proms, weddings, etc. Lighten up!
70
Sorry but at a cost of three-thousandths of a cent per every US citizen, I don't have a problem with our showing a little graciousness and class.
173
As countries with fresh and bright leadership like Troudeau's Canada and Obama's America lead the world into the 21st century, the Republican candidates for President fight over whether the U.S. should return to the 1950s or 1850s.
176
Looks like fun (were Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert there--that would have been even more fun.) And they invited his mom. Very menschy!
32
Isn't it a shame/horrendous that in this day and age women are judged by their dress rather than by content of mind. A shame that the Presidents' wives are restricted to the "trophy wife" mentality. Too bad, also, that Michelle Obama has been so obsessed with image and the corporate media has pushed this.
Really, NYT, your headlines, content, and "reporters" are on a par with People Magazine.
i'll take Rosalyn Carter and Jane Sanders anyday...people like the rest of us!
Really, NYT, your headlines, content, and "reporters" are on a par with People Magazine.
i'll take Rosalyn Carter and Jane Sanders anyday...people like the rest of us!
21
Well if Trump wins the White house, his wife IS a "trophy wife".....super model...
14
Umm, Rosalyn Carter dressed for State dinners and appropriately for a First Lady at other times. There is a photo circulating on the internet this week showing five first ladies together, and Rosalyn looks as elegant as Nancy Reagan. I expect First Ladies to represent us at official functions at an appropriate level of formal wear and style just as I expect their husbands to do so. I don't expect any less from Bill Clinton as First Husband.
63
I don't know. I have 3 degrees, from high power universities, but I still love wearing a nice dress and jewelry with my hair up once in a while. Probably Rosalyn did and Jane does also.
47
Canada has been a staunch ally while maintaining its own national identity and generously sharing its talented citizens with the US. It was time to recognize Canada with a state dinner. Justin and Sophie Trudeau shine as Canada's future. Lovely to see examples of the talented Canadian designers in this article.
171
It's fine, but if it is true it has been done for 20 years -- why not? Were Stephen & Mrs. Harper unworthy of a state dinner?
2
I'm probably not alone in thinking the Harpers were unworthy, yes.
4
Please... not Toronto! Montreal is the fashion city in Canada! And it's the city where the couple comes from. And where she picked her outfits...
26
True, I have family in retail in Montreal. However, I grew in Buffalo ten miles from the Canadian border and made frequent trips to go to the theater, etc. When I traveled through the city on your wonderful subway system I noticed the dress attire was more stylish and European than the U.S. That was a long time ago and maybe things have changed.
6
I have shopped a lot in Montreal, but I have to disagree that it is better than Toronto. It is different, with more French influence, but I found the Asian designer vibe in Toronto to be cool and special.
8
Come to the Ottawa area. Fashion stores in Quebec are only minutes away. You get a taste of both Ontario and la belle province in the nation's capital.
2
Hurrah for Canada, and especially its attitude/policy/publicity on their leaders' spouses. I was not a fan of Nancy Reagan during her lifetime (or her husband's), would it not be ok to let her go to her grave without my having to read all about it? Please, NYT give us a little *less* President's-wife coverage (and I think Michelle Obama is truly neat, but do I need to know?)!
4
Aren't these women more than their dresses?
13
This is one area where Canada significantly differs from their southern neighbor where Canadians feel there are more important things in life than wondering what the Prime Ministers wife is wearing on a particular day during a dinner with some international diplomat.
Unfortunately, whether it is politics or otherwise, you know as well as I, America and its media, along with celebrity, has always been obsessed with style over substance, otherwise why would Donald Trump be running for President?
Unfortunately, whether it is politics or otherwise, you know as well as I, America and its media, along with celebrity, has always been obsessed with style over substance, otherwise why would Donald Trump be running for President?
4
This seems to me both inaccurate and a bit smug. Canadian and American popular cultures are, with few exceptions, all-but indistinguishable. Does ET Canada ring a bell? And your understanding of the United States and its culture appears to be very narrow and partial.
4
Please! Stop being insulting. US may soon have a female president. No one is voting for her wardrobe!
By the way, will you please take Justin Biber back?
By the way, will you please take Justin Biber back?
10
Yes! The lovely Ms. Obama did that thang, hands down!- Yas!
22
The Prime Minister is very attractive and looks spectacular in a tux.
66
You're right on. Justin got his looks and height from the SINCLAIR side of his family, not the Trudeau side. Dad Pierre Trudeau was about 5"4 inches, scrawny and rapidly losing his hair during his time as PM. Somehow, even though he was in no way a "handsome man" the media hyped him as "sexy" as it fueled "Trudeaumania" back in 1968. Thankfully for Justin, he got his body-build and good looks from his mother's side of the family. His grandfather on that side, was tall and handsome.
7
Pierre Trudeau was a longtime bachelor and playboy before marrying Margaret. He was dapper and suave and constantly in the public eye.
I guess that made him "sexy".
I guess that made him "sexy".
4
All true! But what I especially like is that he looks/seems open, kind and gracious.
Christina Lopez Robison
Christina Lopez Robison
11
Ms. Trudeau is the second hottest first lady. The lovely Ms. Obama is the first.
198
I wish there were additional photos of the purple/pink dress Mrs. Trudeau is wearing, because I’m sure it’s meant to be gorgeous, but next to Mrs Obama, she looks downright frumpy and that dress looks nothing but dreadful. What is that trim all about--looks like a misplaced lei.
Nevertheless, I’m a Canadaophile and happy to see them having their day in the sun--it’s long overdue.
Nevertheless, I’m a Canadaophile and happy to see them having their day in the sun--it’s long overdue.
79
Agreed, maybe a beaded lace bolero or overlay instead of the trim on the dress would have worked better? But the Trudeaus are lovely and couldn't be more charming and genuine - and Canadian heads of state are in an entirely more modest milieu, and that's refreshing. I do love the worldliness and class of the Obamas — they can mentor the Trudeaus! What a beautiful foursome they are, handsome, young, smart, invested in service.
87
yes, and the photo makes it look orange, not pink, as reported.
8
Mrs Obama appears to be wearing rutabagas or radishes or some other veg with greens, so there's that. Both dresses are fine, but a little coordination at these dinner thingies would be useful. Can't their people speak to each other like 6 months in advance?
2