Images obtained by Kenyans.co.ke showed the President swapping his usual formal suits for a more casual outfit, highlighted by a pair of golden Classic C de Cartier Motif Sunglasses.
The sunglasses, a luxury product from the French conglomerate Cartier, feature a signature "C" motif on the temples, rimless frames, and a smooth 18-karat gold plating. The lenses are photochromic and layered with anti-reflective coatings, combining both elegance and functionality.
An internet search revealed the shades retail at approximately Ksh145,000 on the official Cartier website, while some jewellery outlets, such as MidWest Jewellery, list them for as much as Ksh154,000.
This choice of eyewear perfectly complemented the President’s increasingly frequent “smart casual” appearances at cultural and sporting events across the country.
The Baringo sun, bright and unrelenting, made the photochromic lenses particularly practical, adjusting automatically to changing light conditions and providing maximum clarity during the outdoor festival.
The Baringo Cultural Festival, a key event for pastoralists and livestock traders, also offered leaders like President Ruto a platform to engage directly with the rural economy.
The Kimalel Goat Auction is a major attraction, with local herders showcasing their livestock while county and national leaders assess the needs of the community. For many attendees, however, the standout image of the day was the President, gavel in hand, with sunlight glinting off the gold “C” on his sunglasses.
Cartier, known worldwide for its luxury goods, has been crafting eyewear and jewellery for over a century. The "C de Cartier" line emphasizes both heritage and contemporary fashion, making it a favorite for high-profile figures who wish to merge style with subtle prestige.
President Ruto’s choice reflects a combination of personal taste, public image, and an appreciation for accessories that carry both symbolic and material value.
This is not the first time the President has been seen sporting luxury accessories. Earlier in the year, during a tour to Spain, he wore a Rolex Daytona reference 16528, originally produced in the 1990s, adding to a collection that merges traditional sophistication with modern flair.
At Baringo, the addition of the Cartier sunglasses cemented his reputation for a keen sense of fashion alongside his political engagements.
The festival itself was a resounding success, with record livestock sales reported and cultural bonds reinforced.
Yet, for social media users and event-goers, the images of President Ruto’s sunglasses quickly went viral, sparking discussions about fashion, luxury, and political branding.