At the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV on May 18, 2025, a striking visual contrast emerged in St. Peter’s Square: while most women donned traditional black attire, a select few royal women stood out in pristine white ensembles. This sartorial distinction is rooted in a centuries-old Vatican tradition known as the privilège du blanc, or “privilege of the white,” which permits only certain Catholic queens and princesses to wear white in the Pope’s presence .
Understanding the Privilège du Blanc
The privilège du blanc is a rare honor granted by the Vatican to a limited number of Catholic royal women. This privilege allows them to wear white garments, typically a long-sleeved dress with a high neckline and a matching white mantilla, during papal audiences or ceremonies. The tradition symbolizes the close ties between the Catholic Church and these royal families, reflecting their historical significance within Christendom . In contrast, the standard protocol for women attending papal events dictates wearing black attire, including a long dress and a black mantilla, signifying humility and respect in the presence of the Pope .
The Seven Women Entitled to Wear White
As of 2025, only seven women worldwide hold the privilège du blanc. These are:
- Queen Letizia of Spain
- Queen Sofía of Spain
- Queen Paola of Belgium
- Queen Mathilde of Belgium
- Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg
- Princess Charlene of Monaco
- Princess Marina of Naples
Their eligibility stems from their positions within Catholic monarchies and their countries’ deep-rooted connections to the Catholic Church .
A Notable Display at Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration
During Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration, Queen Letizia of Spain, Queen Mathilde of Belgium, and Princess Charlene of Monaco exercised their privilège du blanc, donning elegant white outfits that contrasted with the predominantly black attire of other attendees. Queen Letizia wore a long-sleeved, tea-length dress by Redondo Brand, complemented by a white lace veil, pearl drop earrings, and nude heels . Princess Charlene opted for a sophisticated white ensemble, accessorized with a white Akris clutch and a translucent patterned veil . Their presence in white not only adhered to tradition but also highlighted the enduring relationship between the Vatican and these Catholic monarchies.
Significance of the Tradition
The privilège du blanc is more than a dress code exception; it represents the historical and spiritual bonds between the Holy See and specific Catholic royal families. This tradition underscores the recognition of these monarchies’ roles in supporting and upholding the Catholic faith throughout history. While the practice is steeped in tradition, it also sparks discussions about the evolving nature of religious customs and their place in contemporary society. Nonetheless, the privilège du blanc remains a poignant symbol of the intersection between faith, history, and monarchy.
Conclusion
The visual of select royal women in white amidst a sea of black at Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration served as a powerful reminder of the enduring traditions of the Catholic Church. The privilège du blanc not only honors the unique relationship between the Vatican and certain Catholic monarchies but also adds a layer of historical continuity to modern papal ceremonies.
