The Vatican’s dress protocol for papal audiences has long followed strict traditions, particularly regarding what women may wear. Historically, women were expected to wear modest black attire, including long sleeves and a mantilla or veil, symbolizing humility and reverence.
A rare exception exists, known as the “privilège du blanc” or “il privilegio del bianco,” which allows only a select few royal Catholic women to wear white in the presence of the pope. This exclusive honor represents purity, innocence, and peace.
Over the years, there has been some relaxation in dress expectations. For instance, Queen Consort Camilla wore black with a veil during her 2009 visit to Pope Benedict XVI, but in 2017, she chose a pale gold outfit without a head covering when meeting Pope Francis, reflecting evolving standards recognized by the Vatican.
Despite changes, the privilege of wearing white remains tightly limited to just seven royal women globally. These include Queen Letizia and Queen Sofia of Spain, Queen Mathilde and Queen Paola of Belgium, Grand Duchess María Teresa of Luxembourg, Princess Marina of Naples, and Princess Charlene of Monaco.
These women have been photographed in elegant white attire—including mantillas and gloves—during formal Vatican events. Notably, Princess Charlene donned a pristine white ensemble during a private audience with Pope Francis in 2016.
However, even privileged royals must follow mourning protocols. At Pope Francis’ funeral on April 26, 2025, all royal women, including Queen Letizia, Princess Charlene, and Queen Mathilde, wore black veils and conservative dresses, in line with the Church’s traditions of grief and respect.
These garments reflected solemnity: modest necklines, minimal jewelry, and closed-toe footwear, underscoring the sacred nature of the occasion and the prohibition of white during such rites.
Just days later, on May 8, 2025, the Catholic Church ushered in a new era with the election of Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost. His introduction from Saint Peter’s Basilica marked a hopeful beginning, continuing the legacy of tradition, faith, and renewal.
