UK divides over politician’s attire

Barring some exceptions, most people are at their most unattractive when working out, and would hesitate to have their picture taken. For celebrities and public figures, however, that’s usually not an option, courtesy the omnipresent paparazzi. One such photo is taking the UK by storm — all thanks to the the clothes involved in it.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, a politician who attracts praise, critique, and ridicule in equal measures was photographed while he was out for a morning run in London on Tuesday. The photo has since gone viral over the past week, with the UK divided over his choice of clothes.

Johnson sported an eclectic combination of floral swimming shorts, blue polo shirt, knitted winter fleece, and an orange knitted headgear. Ever since the photo made its way to local papers, people have been taking to Twitter to poke fun at, and, in some cases, appreciate his unique ensemble.

“You’ve gotta love @BorisJohnson,” said one user praising his dress sense, while another called it “wondrous”. Twitter user Colin Wright went so far as to compare Johnson’s photo with one of John Lennon’s, saying, “John Lennon, Hyde Park London 1967. Boris Johnson, St James’ Park London, 2017. English heroes setting trends for 50 years.” Even Danish Foreign Minister Anders Samuelsen tweeted his approval, inviting his counterpart out for a run in the near future.

Of course, there were others less than impressed with Johnson’s attire. Twitter user Kate Proctor raised a valid point in the midst of the praise, asking whether people would react just as positively to a female foreign secretary snapped running, dressed similarly. Still others were less reserved in their commentary, calling the get-up “fu**ing shameful”.