Vogue Magazine Includes Pope Leo XIV in Its List of 2025’s Most Fashionable Personalities
Since his election in May 2025, Pope Leo XIV has garnered attention for sounding the alarm on climate change, participating in DJ sets led by priests, and proudly supporting the White Sox. Now, he’s also being recognized for something quite surprising: his personal fashion sense. Vogue magazine named him one of the 55 Best Dressed People of 2025, a distinctive acknowledgment for the leader of the Catholic Church.
Even with his limited wardrobe options, the pope has infused his clothing with personal flair. Vogue highlights that Pope Leo XIV has gained a reputation for “departing from the modest tastes of his predecessor, Pope Francis—but retaining his tailor and upholding the papal tradition of finely tailored liturgical garments.” Additionally, by inviting Monica Bellucci and Cate Blanchett to the Vatican, he has endeavored to modernize the church’s image.
Vogue selected the outfit Pope Leo XIV wore during his inaugural appearance on the central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica as his best ensemble of the year. He emerged dressed in a red satin mozzetta cape, a wine-red, gold-embroidered stole, and a cross pendant on a gold silk cord. More than these elements, it’s his surprising accessories that have captivated fashion fans and specialists alike. Whether he sported a White Sox hat with his papal attire, or when filmmaker Spike Lee gifted him a Knicks jersey—showcasing three players from the pope’s alma mater, Villanova University—these moments highlight his distinctiveness.
The pope’s garments are crafted by Italian designer and tailor Filippo Sorcinelli at atelier LAVS in Santarcangelo di Romagna in Rimini. Sorcinelli, hailing from a family of weavers and seamstresses, comes from a background in sacred art and historical weaving. Now 50, he has outfitted the last three popes, including Leo XIV; a fitting choice given their long-standing relationship. “I’ve known Pope Leo XIV for 30 years,” Sorcinelli shared with Le Monde. “We first met in 1995 in Tolentino, not far from my hometown. At that time, I was playing organ in churches while he was an Augustinian friar in the area.”
Among the other names on the Best Dressed list are former First Lady Michelle Obama, musician Bad Bunny, actor Jeremy Strong, and basketball player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. While most individuals listed can showcase their styles frequently on red carpets, fashion enthusiasts might have to content themselves with catching a glimpse of the pope’s OOTD (outfit of the day) during mass or while he travels in the Popemobile.
You can view the complete Best Dressed People of 2025 list on Vogue.