Only a small handful of women were allowed to wear white to Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration while everyone else had to wear black, and here’s why…
On 18 May, the inauguration ceremony took place in Vatican City.
Traditionally, in the pope’s presence, people wear black, with Queen Letizia of Spain being one of only seven women that can wear white.
The custom is called privilège du blanc or privilege of white – which allows a certain group of women to wear white. Black clothes symbolize “humility and the desire to remain unnoticed,” according to Dr. Taylor Marshall.
Women are expected to wear black clothing that covers their knees and longer sleeves that cover their shoulders. They must also cover their chest.
The only women exempt from this rule are:
- Queen Letizia of Spain
- Princess Charlene of Monaco
- Queen Sofía of Spain
- Queen Paola and Queen Mathilde of Belgium
- Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg
- Princess Marina of Naples.
“It’s a reminder that the Catholic Church holds high standards for the attire of the laity and recognizes Catholic monarchs as integral to Christendom,” Marshall wrote.
“Le Privilège du Blanc isn’t just about white dresses; it’s about history, influence, and remains an essential reminder of the history (and future) of Christendom.”
During the ceremony, Queen Letizia of Spain wore a white dress with long sleeves and a lace veil on her head.
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