Pope Leo XIV greets the crowd from St. Peter's Basilica balcony on May 8, 2025. AP Photo
When Pope Leo XIV first appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica after his May 8 election, many noticed something different. He wore rich red and gold robes, not the simple white outfit worn by Pope Francis. He brought back old papal clothes like a red cape, a gold-embroidered stole, and white pants. Fans of church fashion worldwide were excited to see these changes.
Over the next weeks, people spotted more traditional pieces like lace and cufflinks. This return to old styles reminds many of popes from the past, such as Pope Benedict XVI and John Paul II.
Why the Change Matters
The Rev. John Wauck, a church communication expert in Rome, said Pope Leo’s look shows respect for tradition. This matters a lot to many conservative Catholics. They felt Pope Francis was too informal and did not respect old church customs. Francis even limited the old Latin Mass, a traditional ceremony many conservatives value.
Pope Leo speaks Latin well and often prays in Latin. Some hope he will bring back the Latin Mass and reverse Francis’ restrictions. But experts say it is too soon to know if he will change church rules.
Mixed Feelings Among Experts
Massimo Faggioli, a theology professor, said Leo’s traditional clothing has pleased conservatives, especially in the U.S. He thinks Francis may have been a temporary change in papal style, and Leo is returning to older ways.
Pope Leo XIV carries his staff while walking out after Pentecost Mass at St. Peter’s Square on June 8, 2025. AP Photo
More Than Just Clothes
At his first big Mass on May 18, Leo wore new details like cufflinks and a lace collar called an amitto. He also wore a white tunic and a braided belt, pieces Francis avoided. Even Leo’s white pants caught attention, replacing Francis’ black pants.
Leo has brought back old customs, like letting people kiss his ring, something Francis did not like.
Wauck said Pope Leo’s style shows he values tradition. This may feel more formal than Francis but shows respect for the church’s history.
What’s Next?
It’s unclear if Pope Leo will live in the grand papal apartment. Francis chose to live simply in a smaller Vatican residence, which surprised many. For some, these changes mean the church is returning to older traditions after years of a more modern approach.
The Rev. Castro Prudencio said the difference is simple. “For Pope Francis it was simplicity. Always. And Pope Leo has taken up what Pope Benedict had and many others. That is what the church is like.”
