The Rare Royal Privilege of Wearing White Before the Pope
When it comes to meeting the pope, the Vatican has long held strict sartorial protocols—particularly for women. Traditionally, female attendees are expected to wear modest, black attire with long sleeves and a veil, typically made of lace. However, a rare exception exists—the privilege of wearing white, a symbolic honor reserved for only a select few Catholic royal women.
Despite the thousands who have met the pope over the years, only seven women in the world are granted this honor, known as the “privilège du blanc” in French or “il privilegio del bianco” in Italian. Even these women must forgo white at solemn occasions such as papal funerals, where mourning attire is strictly observed.
Evolving Traditions: Royal Dress Codes in the Vatican
The dress code has evolved in recent years, reflecting a more relaxed Vatican approach. When Camilla, now Queen Consort of the United Kingdom, met Pope Benedict XVI in 2009 as the Duchess of Cornwall, she adhered to tradition—wearing a long black dress and lace mantilla.
But in April 2017, during an audience with the late Pope Francis, Camilla made headlines by wearing a pale gold dress and coat by designer Anna Valentine—and notably, no head covering. The Vatican welcomed the deviation. “There are no hard and fast rules anymore,” a Vatican spokesperson remarked, indicating a growing flexibility in protocol.
Nevertheless, certain boundaries remain. Because her husband, King Charles III, is the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, Camilla is not entitled to the privilege of white. When she met Pope Francis during a 2022 visit to Italy—her first papal audience since becoming Queen—she respectfully wore a conservative black outfit, following centuries-old customs.
A Symbolic Dress Code Rooted in Faith
Queen Elizabeth II often followed tradition by wearing black when meeting the pope. However, her visits with Pope Francis saw her embrace her signature bold colors, including a lilac ensemble during a 2014 meeting—subtle proof of the Vatican’s increasingly relaxed attitude.
But not everyone is free to experiment with color. When Cherie Blair, wife of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, wore white to a 2006 audience with Pope Benedict XVI, critics accused her of overstepping. The symbolism of white remains deeply rooted in Catholic doctrine, representing purity, grace, and fidelity to the Church.
Only women from devout Catholic royal families—traditionally those with deep, historical ties to the Vatican—may don white for papal audiences and special religious ceremonies such as canonizations or beatifications. This elite group includes:
- Princess Charlene of Monaco
- Queen Letizia of Spain
- Queen Sofia of Spain
- Queen Mathilde of Belgium
- Queen Paola of Belgium
- Grand Duchess María Teresa of Luxembourg
- Princess Marina of Naples
Princess Charlene, for instance, upheld the privilège du blanc during her 2016 meeting with Pope Francis. Dressed in white from head to toe—with a mantilla, gloves, and a fitted jacket—her only touch of color was a crimson lipstick.
Papal Funerals: A Return to Strict Formality
The passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, marked a solemn moment for the Catholic world. His funeral, held on April 26 in St. Peter’s Square, was attended by numerous global dignitaries, including royals like Queen Letizia of Spain, Queen Rania of Jordan, and Princess Charlene.
At such occasions, Vatican protocol strictly requires all attendees—regardless of privilege—to wear black. Women must don modest attire, often a dress or suit with long sleeves, a veil, and discreet jewelry. Tulle, lace, or netting are commonly used for mourning veils, and footwear is expected to be closed-toe and understated, with low heels preferred.
Queen Letizia, for example, wore a black gown with three-quarter sleeves, matching heels, and a traditional black veil. She carried a simple black handbag and was accompanied by her husband, King Felipe VI, who wore a classic black suit.
As royal correspondent Danielle Stacey noted, “Dressing head-to-toe in black is typically reserved for funerals and remembrance. A black outfit is always packed by royals when traveling, in case of a family death abroad.”
Notably, even the seven women entitled to wear white must abandon the privilege during papal funerals. The color white—so closely associated with the pope’s cassock—is reserved for moments of joy, celebration, and spiritual purity, not mourning.
The Meaning Behind the White
The privilège du blanc is not just about fashion; it’s a deeply symbolic gesture, representing centuries of loyalty to the Catholic faith and an acknowledgment of spiritual connection with the Holy See. Those granted the honor are seen as custodians of tradition and reverence.
As Queen Sofía of Spain once demonstrated—wearing dignified pearls to the funeral of Pope John Paul II in 2005—the details of royal mourning attire carry quiet power. Each accessory, each fabric, is steeped in meaning.
Ultimately, the privilege of wearing white before the pope is more than a sartorial distinction—it’s a mark of enduring faith, legacy, and honor. And for the few who carry it, every stitch tells a story.
A Symbolic Dress Code Rooted in Faith
Queen Elizabeth II often followed tradition by wearing black when meeting the pope. However, her visits with Pope Francis saw her embrace her signature bold colors, including a lilac ensemble during a 2014 meeting—subtle proof of the Vatican’s increasingly relaxed attitude.
But not everyone is free to experiment with color. When Cherie Blair, wife of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, wore white to a 2006 audience with Pope Benedict XVI, critics accused her of overstepping. The symbolism of white remains deeply rooted in Catholic doctrine, representing purity, grace, and fidelity to the Church.
Only women from devout Catholic royal families—traditionally those with deep, historical ties to the Vatican—may don white for papal audiences and special religious ceremonies such as canonizations or beatifications. This elite group includes:
- Princess Charlene of Monaco
- Queen Letizia of Spain
- Queen Sofia of Spain
- Queen Mathilde of Belgium
- Queen Paola of Belgium
- Grand Duchess María Teresa of Luxembourg
- Princess Marina of Naples
Queen Sofía of Spain, for example, famously wore the full white ensemble—including a white veil—during her 1997 audience with Pope Paul VI, accompanied by King Juan Carlos and other members of the Spanish royal family. Her appearance was a textbook example of the privilège du blanc, underscoring Spain’s close and enduring relationship with the Catholic Church.
Princess Charlene also upheld the privilège du blanc during her 2016 meeting with Pope Francis. Dressed in white from head to toe—with a mantilla, gloves, and a fitted jacket—her only touch of color was a crimson lipstick.
A Symbolic Dress Code Rooted in Faith
Queen Elizabeth II often followed tradition by wearing black when meeting the pope. However, her visits with Pope Francis saw her embrace her signature bold colors, including a lilac ensemble during a 2014 meeting—subtle proof of the Vatican’s increasingly relaxed attitude.
But not everyone is free to experiment with color. When Cherie Blair, wife of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, wore white to a 2006 audience with Pope Benedict XVI, critics accused her of overstepping. The symbolism of white remains deeply rooted in Catholic doctrine, representing purity, grace, and fidelity to the Church.
Only women from devout Catholic royal families—traditionally those with deep, historical ties to the Vatican—may don white for papal audiences and special religious ceremonies such as canonizations or beatifications. This elite group includes:
- Princess Charlene of Monaco
- Queen Letizia of Spain
- Queen Sofia of Spain
- Queen Mathilde of Belgium
- Queen Paola of Belgium
- Grand Duchess María Teresa of Luxembourg
- Princess Marina of Naples
Queen Sofía of Spain, for example, famously wore a full white ensemble—including a veil—during a papal audience with Pope Paul VI on February 10, 1997, accompanied by King Juan Carlos and other Spanish royals. Her attire was a clear reflection of Spain’s enduring bond with the Catholic Church.
Queen Letizia of Spain exercised the privilège du blanc on June 30, 2014, during her first papal audience as Queen Consort. She and King Felipe VI met Pope Francis in his private library within the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican. Letizia wore a refined white outfit in accordance with protocol—a symbolic affirmation of her new role and of Spain’s royal connection to Catholic tradition.
Similarly, Queen Paola of Belgium, a devout Catholic and former Queen Consort, has also observed the white privilege during papal visits. Known for her elegance and deep religious commitment, Queen Paola’s appearances in white before the pope have long reflected Belgium’s close relationship with the Holy See.
Princess Charlene also upheld the privilège du blanc during her 2016 meeting with Pope Francis. Dressed in white from head to toe—with a mantilla, gloves, and a fitted jacket—her only touch of color was a crimson lipstick.
A Symbolic Dress Code Rooted in Faith
Queen Elizabeth II often followed tradition by wearing black when meeting the pope. However, her visits with Pope Francis saw her embrace her signature bold colors, including a lilac ensemble during a 2014 meeting—subtle proof of the Vatican’s increasingly relaxed attitude.
But not everyone is free to experiment with color. When Cherie Blair, wife of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, wore white to a 2006 audience with Pope Benedict XVI, critics accused her of overstepping. The symbolism of white remains deeply rooted in Catholic doctrine, representing purity, grace, and fidelity to the Church.
Only women from devout Catholic royal families—traditionally those with deep, historical ties to the Vatican—may don white for papal audiences and special religious ceremonies such as canonizations or beatifications. This elite group includes:
- Princess Charlene of Monaco
- Queen Letizia of Spain
- Queen Sofia of Spain
- Queen Mathilde of Belgium
- Queen Paola of Belgium
- Grand Duchess María Teresa of Luxembourg
- Princess Marina of Naples
Queen Sofía of Spain, for example, famously wore a full white ensemble—including a veil—during a papal audience with Pope Paul VI on February 10, 1997, accompanied by King Juan Carlos and other Spanish royals. Her attire was a clear reflection of Spain’s enduring bond with the Catholic Church.
Queen Letizia of Spain exercised the privilège du blanc on June 30, 2014, during her first papal audience as Queen Consort. She and King Felipe VI met Pope Francis in his private library within the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican. Letizia wore a refined white outfit in accordance with protocol—a symbolic affirmation of her new role and of Spain’s royal connection to Catholic tradition.
Queen Paola of Belgium similarly observed the tradition when she visited Pope John Paul II on May 15, 1998, in Vatican City. Meeting the pontiff in his private library at the Apostolic Palace, Queen Paola wore the required white outfit complete with a white veil, exemplifying her devout Catholic background and Belgium’s historically close relationship with the Vatican.
Her daughter-in-law, Queen Mathilde of Belgium, has also been granted the privilege. As a Catholic queen consort and wife of King Philippe, Queen Mathilde has attended several Vatican events in white attire. Whether at private audiences or official masses, she continues to honor the tradition with grace, wearing modest white ensembles and veils that align with both reverence and royal protocol.
Princess Charlene also upheld the privilège du blanc during her 2016 meeting with Pope Francis. Dressed in white from head to toe—with a mantilla, gloves, and a fitted jacket—her only touch of color was a crimson lipstick.
A Symbolic Dress Code Rooted in Faith
Queen Elizabeth II often followed tradition by wearing black when meeting the pope. However, her visits with Pope Francis saw her embrace her signature bold colors, including a lilac ensemble during a 2014 meeting—subtle proof of the Vatican’s increasingly relaxed attitude.
But not everyone is free to experiment with color. When Cherie Blair, wife of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, wore white to a 2006 audience with Pope Benedict XVI, critics accused her of overstepping. The symbolism of white remains deeply rooted in Catholic doctrine, representing purity, grace, and fidelity to the Church.
Only women from devout Catholic royal families—traditionally those with deep, historical ties to the Vatican—may don white for papal audiences and special religious ceremonies such as canonizations or beatifications. This elite group includes:
- Princess Charlene of Monaco
- Queen Letizia of Spain
- Queen Sofia of Spain
- Queen Mathilde of Belgium
- Queen Paola of Belgium
- Grand Duchess María Teresa of Luxembourg
- Princess Marina of Naples
Queen Sofía of Spain, for example, famously wore a full white ensemble—including a veil—during a papal audience with Pope Paul VI on February 10, 1997, accompanied by King Juan Carlos and other Spanish royals. Her attire was a clear reflection of Spain’s enduring bond with the Catholic Church.
Queen Letizia of Spain exercised the privilège du blanc on June 30, 2014, during her first papal audience as Queen Consort. She and King Felipe VI met Pope Francis in his private library at the Apostolic Palace. Letizia wore a refined white outfit in accordance with protocol—a symbolic affirmation of her new role and Spain’s royal Catholic heritage.
Queen Paola of Belgium followed tradition when she visited Pope John Paul II on May 15, 1998, in Vatican City. In the private library of the Apostolic Palace, she wore white with a coordinating veil, a formal reflection of her deep Catholic devotion and her country’s relationship with the Holy See.
Queen Mathilde of Belgium also observed the custom when she and King Philippe met Pope Francis during a private audience on March 9, 2015. Dressed entirely in white—including a modest dress and veil—Mathilde was presented with a rosary, a symbolic gesture of spiritual unity and mutual respect. Her serene and understated appearance perfectly embodied the values of purity, reverence, and royal dignity.
Grand Duchess María Teresa of Luxembourg, a practicing Catholic and consort to Grand Duke Henri, is one of the few royals entitled to wear white before the pope. She has made several appearances at Vatican functions, consistently honoring the privilège du blanc. Her white ensembles, always accompanied by a veil, reflect Luxembourg’s strong Catholic identity and the Grand Ducal Family’s longstanding connection to the Holy See.
Princess Charlene of Monaco likewise upheld the tradition during her 2016 meeting with Pope Francis. Wearing white gloves, a fitted jacket, heels, and a lace mantilla, her ensemble was pristine and elegant—punctuated only by a touch of crimson lipstick.
Royal Appearances Upholding the Privilège du Blanc
Queen Sofia of Spain wore a full white ensemble—including a veil—during her papal audience with Pope Paul VI on February 10, 1997, accompanied by King Juan Carlos and other Spanish royals. Her appearance reflected Spain’s historic devotion to the Catholic Church.
Queen Letizia of Spain made her first papal visit as Queen Consort on June 30, 2014, wearing a tasteful white outfit during a private audience with Pope Francis in the Apostolic Palace. The choice signified both personal modesty and a national tradition of Catholic loyalty.
Queen Paola of Belgium, deeply devoted to her faith, wore white with a traditional veil during her audience with Pope John Paul II on May 15, 1998, at his private library in Vatican City. Her attire was both a religious gesture and a mark of her role as Queen Consort at the time.
Queen Mathilde of Belgium, also entitled to the white privilege, visited Pope Francis with King Philippe on March 9, 2015. Dressed head to toe in white, Mathilde’s serene appearance was marked by a meaningful moment when she was gifted a rosary—a traditional symbol of the Church’s blessing and connection.
Grand Duchess María Teresa of Luxembourg visited Pope Benedict XVI on May 8, 2006, at his private library in the Vatican. Dressed in white with a lace veil, she too received a rosary—an intimate, spiritual gift acknowledging her status and faith. Luxembourg’s royal family has long upheld a strong Catholic tradition, mirrored in María Teresa’s respectful and composed appearance.
Princess Marina of Naples—a member of the former Italian royal family—was recognized publicly by Pope John Paul II on May 18, 2003, during a special liturgy in St. Peter’s Square. The pope acknowledged her, along with her husband, Prince Victor Emmanuel, and son Emanuele Filiberto, as he passed in the popemobile. Though not a private audience, the public recognition reflected the Vatican’s acknowledgement of Marina’s royal heritage and Catholic identity. As a princess from a once-reigning, devout Catholic monarchy, Marina is among the few permitted to wear white for papal audiences.
Princess Charlene of Monaco most recently upheld the privilège du blanc during her audience with Pope Francis on January 18, 2016. The former Olympic swimmer turned royal was the image of poise and grace in a crisp white jacket, matching skirt, gloves, and mantilla. A devout Catholic since her conversion prior to her 2011 wedding to Prince Albert II, Charlene’s appearance reflected a quiet but clear respect for tradition. The only hint of color was her red lipstick—a contrast to the soft white that enveloped her.
The Last to Wear White — and a New Era in White Begins
Among the select few women granted the rare privilège du blanc, Princess Charlene of Monaco holds a unique distinction: she was the most recent royal to exercise this honor before a historic papal transition. On January 12, 2013, she attended a private audience with Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican. Dressed in pristine white, complete with a lace mantilla and white gloves, she honored centuries-old tradition with poise and grace, representing both Monaco’s devout Catholic roots and her own personal reverence for the Church.
That occasion marked her first audience in the privilège du blanc and the final one before a new chapter in papal history began.
The Pope Who Replaced Francis: A New Era Begins
On May 8, 2025, the world watched as a new page was turned in the history of the Catholic Church. Following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the College of Cardinals gathered in conclave and, within a day, reached a decision that would shape the Church’s future.
Standing before a hushed, expectant crowd in St. Peter’s Square, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti stepped onto the central loggia of the basilica to deliver the time-honored announcement:
“Habemus Papam.”
“I announce to you a great joy: We have a Pope,” he declared in Latin.
The newly elected pope was Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost, who chose the papal name Leo XIV, becoming the 267th Bishop of Rome.
From the same balcony where countless popes have greeted the faithful for centuries, Pope Leo XIV appeared and offered his first words:
“Peace be with all of you.”
His calm, measured greeting echoed across the square and throughout the Catholic world, symbolizing continuity, unity, and spiritual renewal.
With Pope Leo XIV’s election, the Church embarks on a new era of leadership. A former bishop of Chicago with deep pastoral experience and theological insight, Leo XIV is now looked to by millions for spiritual guidance, global moral leadership, and the preservation of sacred tradition—like the centuries-old privilège du blanc itself.
