Pope Leo XIV’s early papacy is drawing global attention not only for its pastoral leadership, but also for the visual witness it offers through sacred tradition. According to Catholic News Agency, that attention recently extended beyond ecclesial circles when Vogue magazine named the Holy Father among its 55 best-dressed people of 2025.
Catholic News Agency reported that the recognition places Pope Leo XIV alongside well-known athletes, entertainers, and cultural figures, including Rosalía, Rihanna, Bad Bunny, Jennifer Lawrence, and Venus Williams. While the list reflects contemporary fashion culture, CNA noted that Vogue’s interest centered on the Pope’s deliberate embrace of traditional papal vesture.
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According to Catholic News Agency, Vogue observed that Pope Leo XIV has broken “with the humble tastes of his predecessor,” Pope Francis, while preserving “the papal legacy of impeccably crafted liturgical vestments.” The magazine pointed in particular to the Pope’s first public appearance following his election on May 8, 2025, which it identified as the “best outfit of 2025.”
Catholic News Agency reported that Vogue highlighted the Holy Father’s attire on the central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, noting his red satin mozzetta, a wine-colored stole embroidered in gold, and a pectoral cross suspended from a golden silk cord. These elements, CNA explained, are rich in ecclesial meaning and reflect longstanding papal tradition.
The significance of these garments extends far beyond aesthetics. As Catholic News Agency noted, the mozzetta is an elbow-length cape worn over the rochet as a sign of authority, while the chasuble — the principal outer vestment worn during the celebration of the Mass — carries theological symbolism. Historically, the chasuble represents the “yoke of Christ” and serves as a symbol of charity, with its color changing according to the liturgical season.
Catholic News Agency contrasted Pope Leo XIV’s approach with that of Pope Francis, who chose not to wear certain traditional garments after his election in 2013. CNA reported that this decision was widely understood as a gesture of simplicity and became a defining visual marker of Francis’ pontificate. That understated style was later recognized by Esquire magazine, which included Pope Francis among its best-dressed men.
Behind the papal vestments stands a tradition of expert craftsmanship. According to Catholic News Agency, Italian designer Filippo Sorcinelli has emerged as one of the leading creators of papal liturgical garments in recent pontificates, beginning with Benedict XVI. CNA also reported that the tailoring of papal vestments continues to be entrusted to the historic Gammarelli tailor shop near the Pantheon in Rome.
While recognition from a secular fashion publication may seem unexpected, Catholic News Agency observed that Pope Leo XIV’s attire has prompted renewed reflection on the Church’s use of beauty and symbolism. Through vestments shaped by centuries of faith, the Holy Father’s public appearances offer a visible reminder that sacred tradition remains a powerful expression of Catholic identity.
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