When German Chancellor Angela Merkel met Prime Minister Narendra Modi today, social media was busy talking about one thing: Their outfits.
Merkel, one of Europe's most powerful politicians, is perhaps not best known for her fashion sense. A Guardian article once wrote that fashion does not come to the German Chancellor as naturally as economics. So, she sticks to a 'formula.'
"Merkel’s look is low key, her uniform of choice a sensible, boxy, three-button pantsuit in a spectrum of mumsy hues running from beige to purple. Classic, risk-averse and un-showy, the message is self-assurance and confidence – she has far more important things to deal with than her wardrobe," wrote the BBC, describing Merkel's sense of fashion.
In contrast, Modi has often been termed as a 'fashion icon.' His shortened tunic, or 'Modi Kurta', paired with designer watches and sunglasses make him one of India's best-dressed politicians. Modi has in fact made the short-sleeved, crisp cotton shirt paired with a sleeveless jacket a uniform of sorts for himself.
He recently told a gathering that his wardrobe was driven more by common sense and comfort than by fashion. "I don't know why people think I have a fashion designer who styles me. I only dress simple and sober. In fact, I don't even know any fashion designers," he said.
The Prime Minister has been quoted as saying that his fashion sense was a gift given to him by God.
“God has gifted me the sense of mixing and matching colours. Since I’m God gifted I fit well in everything. I have no fashion designer but I’m happy to hear that I dress well," Modi said, according to biographer Lance Price.
So, you think Modi-Merkel make for a strange combination to get picked on for their 'fashion sense.'
Not really.
Merkel, who is on a three-day visit to India to participate in the third Indo-German Inter-governmental consultations, hosted by Modi, was spotted wearing a pant suit with a blue jacket. The Indian PM too teamed his typical short sleeved shirt with a blue jacket.
The matching colours of diplomacy. pic.twitter.com/7FdkpvTYQn
— Ashok Lalla (@ashoklalla) October 5, 2015
Modi : Angela ben bada matching kar ke aayi ho mere sath
Angela : Aapne hi to bola tha blue dal kar aana
*Laugh* pic.twitter.com/wWP2B1mpWj
— PK (@LootPadiHai) October 5, 2015
Modi to Merkel...How did you know that I was going to wear blue today. https://t.co/tu0m3eqJpE
— Peace.. (@Vijgatt) October 5, 2015
#Merkel and #Modi: check out the matching sky-blue outfits! German-Indian goods to look forward to. Please, no VW.
— Sushma Joshi (@joshi_sushma) October 5, 2015
Someone tried to unravel the logic behind why she is wearing blue.
@MEAIndia@PMO@GermanyDiplo Angela Merkel & Modi in Blue,it signifies Trust.They r Natural Allies.Germany's Capital&Tech & India's manpower
— pradeep godara (@pradeepgodara) October 5, 2015
While, some others tweeted about what their meeting was going to be:
Merkel to discuss climate change with Modi sitting in a Volkswagen.
— Trendulkar (@Trendulkar) October 5, 2015
Angela Merkel: Hello Modiji, can we meet?
Modi: Sure Angelaben, I'll come to Germany.
Angela: Lemme come there, no. Please.
Modi: Sigh. Ok.
— Ramesh Srivats (@rameshsrivats) October 5, 2015
And, what they should talk about:
Will Modi give #AngelaMerkel a quick social media tutorial on the sidelines of their talks to encourage her to get social?
— Ashok Lalla (@ashoklalla) October 5, 2015
To welcome the German Chancellor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted "Namaste" as she arrived on Sunday night on a three-day visit.
Namaste Chancellor Merkel! Warm welcome to you & the delegation. I look forward to fruitful discussions & strengthening India-Germany ties.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 4, 2015
The leaders will hold discussions on a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including deepening bilateral engagement in defence, security, education, renewable energy, skill development and agriculture.
Merkel, along with Modi, will visit Bengaluru tomorrow and participate in a business event.
Contact HuffPost India