THE world was riven last week when pictures emerged that split opinion asunder.

Well, the world of Instagram was, that is.

The source of such contention? A couple got married in their tracksuits.

Videographer Sarah Gonzalez, of Wildwood Films, shared controversial footage in which the bride can be seen wearing a white veil, crop top, trackie bottoms and trainers. The groom has on an all-black hoodie and tracksuit bottoms set.

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If you’re thinking Shellsuit Bob meets Vicky Pollard, be assured the happy couple could not have looked more glam had they been wearing the full wedding works.

I smell a whiff of self-promotion on the part of the videographer. If so, it has worked. In a flurry of posts, the Instagram commentariat exchanged views on the nuances and finer points of wedding regalia.

The videographer kicked things off with “I love when couples say screw tradition and find unique and fun ways to show their personalities on their wedding day and start new trends of their own”.

“I predict sweat suits will be an up-and-coming trend this year and I am HERE FOR IT,” she added.

While Gonzalez was a fan, those who joined in the discourse were not so sure.

“If I’m paying over $1000 for a gown, you better believe I’m wearing it until I die,” wrote one follower, obviously not deterred by the impracticalities of day-to-day life in a posh frock.

Another opined: “Personally, that would be my worst nightmare! I have a Pinterest board with a few hundred pictures of potential wedding dresses and I’m not even engaged yet. I’m looking forward to be a princess soooo much.”

Yet, there were more who thought this trend should catch on.

“I’m obsessed with this,” said one.

“As a ‘change into after the ceremony to be comfortable’ thing I get it. All for it,” agreed a second.

Such is the passion for debate in the febrile world of Instagram.

But often it is what’s going on in the background of a picture that is more interesting. Look beyond the tracksuit-clad bride and groom and there are the guests, all dressed to the nines.

Wear what you like on your big day … but at least tip off the rest of the company so they also have the luxury of ditching the faff of formal attire and pitching up in leisurewear.

Heaven knows, we’ve got used to dressing down over the past 18 months. This hit home for me last week when I found myself getting ready for a night out at the Scottish Press Awards.

“Dress code black tie” warned the invitation, so I duly wheeled out the big black dress and shoes with the merest suggestion of a heel which nevertheless challenge my ability to walk.

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Despite being out of my comfort zone of joggy bottoms and slippers, it was good if a little strange to be out and meeting colleagues and old friends.

Yes, there were some fancy frocks and the usual wall of tuxedos. But it was refreshing to see many dressed in far more relaxed style.

On reflection, maybe I could have worn black leggings and a T-shirt and got away with it.

Not sure about the baffies, though …