Pope Leo XIV: 2025’s Surprise Fashion Icon

He’s probably not the first person that comes to mind when you think of the most stylish people of 2025. And yet, Pope Leo XIV managed to make it onto this “New York Times” list. According to the American daily, he has permanently changed the image of the papacy since his election as the first American pope last May.

“Shortly after, he once again marked the image of his office by combining with his papal outfit a cap bearing the image of the Chicago White Sox,” continues the “New York Times”. Leon is a big fan of the baseball team.

More about tradition

Why does his style get so much attention? As the “New York Post” mentions, the Reverend John Wauck of the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome speaks of a “return to tradition”.

According to him, Leo XIV’s outfits are more reminiscent of those of older popes, such as Benedict XVI or John Paul II, and less of those of his direct predecessor, Pope Francis.

Shortly after his election, on May 8, 2025, Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica – with a large gold cross.Antoine Mekary/Godong/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

This was evident from the day he was elected. On this occasion, he opted for a red mosette (a short cape that covers the shoulders and upper torso), a stole embroidered with gold thread and a gold cross – a significantly more traditional appearance than that of his predecessor, usually dressed in a white cassock (priest’s habit) and carrying a silver cross.

Pope Francis usually wore a white cassock and a silver cross.
Pope Francis usually wore a white cassock and a silver cross.imago images/ULMER Pressebildagentur

Style, according to the “New York Times,” is not only expressed through clothing, accessories and hairstyles, but can also be manifested through “a unique charisma or a gesture that takes on a life of its own.”

What do you think about the Pope being among the most stylish people of the year?

Sofia Reyes

Sofia Reyes covers basketball and baseball for Archysport, specializing in statistical analysis and player development stories. With a background in sports data science, Sofia translates advanced metrics into compelling narratives that both casual fans and analytics enthusiasts can appreciate. She covers the NBA, WNBA, MLB, and international basketball competitions, with a particular focus on emerging talent and how front offices build winning rosters through data-driven decisions.

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