At the funeral of Pope Francis on April 26, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump drew significant attention and criticism for his choice of attire. While most attendees adhered to traditional mourning customs by wearing black, Trump opted for a navy blue suit paired with a light blue tie, diverging from the expected dress code for such a solemn occasion. This sartorial choice sparked widespread backlash on social media, with many accusing him of being disrespectful and seeking attention.
Vatican protocol traditionally dictates that men wear a black suit, black tie, and a black insignia on the left lapel during funerals. However, a Vatican insider clarified that no official dress code was enforced for Pope Francis’ funeral, allowing attendees to select attire they deemed appropriate. Despite this leniency, Trump’s choice stood out, especially when contrasted with his wife, Melania Trump, who adhered to traditional mourning attire by wearing a black veil and a double-breasted black coat. IAELimited+1–+1
Adding to the controversy, Trump was observed using his mobile phone during the funeral, which many viewers considered a sign of disrespect. A video circulated on social media showing him sending a text message before quickly putting the device away. Additionally, some observers noted that Trump faced the wrong direction during parts of the ceremony, further fueling criticism.
While Trump was not the only attendee in non-black attire—Prince William and Indian President Droupadi Murmu also wore blue—the criticism appeared inconsistent. Some commentators argued that Trump’s attire was emblematic of his tendency to defy norms, whereas others, like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, managed to balance personal style and respect by wearing a military-style field jacket that aligned with his identity while still paying homage to the solemnity of the occasion. GQ
In summary, Trump’s attire and conduct at Pope Francis’ funeral drew significant attention and criticism, highlighting the complexities of protocol and the scrutiny public figures face during high-profile events. While there was no strict dress code enforced, the expectations of decorum and respect at such solemn occasions remain significant, and deviations from these expectations can lead to public disapproval.
At the funeral of Pope Francis on April 26, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump drew significant attention and criticism for his choice of attire. While most attendees adhered to traditional mourning customs by wearing black, Trump opted for a navy blue suit paired with a light blue tie, diverging from the expected dress code for such a solemn occasion. This sartorial choice sparked widespread backlash on social media, with many accusing him of being disrespectful and seeking attention.
Vatican protocol traditionally dictates that men wear a black suit, black tie, and a black insignia on the left lapel during funerals. However, a Vatican insider clarified that no official dress code was enforced for Pope Francis’ funeral, allowing attendees to select attire they deemed appropriate. Despite this leniency, Trump’s choice stood out, especially when contrasted with his wife, Melania Trump, who adhered to traditional mourning attire by wearing a black veil and a double-breasted black coat. IAELimited+1–+1
Adding to the controversy, Trump was observed using his mobile phone during the funeral, which many viewers considered a sign of disrespect. A video circulated on social media showing him sending a text message before quickly putting the device away. Additionally, some observers noted that Trump faced the wrong direction during parts of the ceremony, further fueling criticism.
While Trump was not the only attendee in non-black attire—Prince William and Indian President Droupadi Murmu also wore blue—the criticism appeared inconsistent. Some commentators argued that Trump’s attire was emblematic of his tendency to defy norms, whereas others, like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, managed to balance personal style and respect by wearing a military-style field jacket that aligned with his identity while still paying homage to the solemnity of the occasion. GQ
In summary, Trump’s attire and conduct at Pope Francis’ funeral drew significant attention and criticism, highlighting the complexities of protocol and the scrutiny public figures face during high-profile events. While there was no strict dress code enforced, the expectations of decorum and respect at such solemn occasions remain significant, and deviations from these expectations can lead to public disapproval.
At the funeral of Pope Francis on April 26, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump drew significant attention and criticism for his choice of attire. While most attendees adhered to traditional mourning customs by wearing black, Trump opted for a navy blue suit paired with a light blue tie, diverging from the expected dress code for such a solemn occasion. This sartorial choice sparked widespread backlash on social media, with many accusing him of being disrespectful and seeking attention.
Vatican protocol traditionally dictates that men wear a black suit, black tie, and a black insignia on the left lapel during funerals. However, a Vatican insider clarified that no official dress code was enforced for Pope Francis’ funeral, allowing attendees to select attire they deemed appropriate. Despite this leniency, Trump’s choice stood out, especially when contrasted with his wife, Melania Trump, who adhered to traditional mourning attire by wearing a black veil and a double-breasted black coat. IAELimited+1–+1
Adding to the controversy, Trump was observed using his mobile phone during the funeral, which many viewers considered a sign of disrespect. A video circulated on social media showing him sending a text message before quickly putting the device away. Additionally, some observers noted that Trump faced the wrong direction during parts of the ceremony, further fueling criticism.
While Trump was not the only attendee in non-black attire—Prince William and Indian President Droupadi Murmu also wore blue—the criticism appeared inconsistent. Some commentators argued that Trump’s attire was emblematic of his tendency to defy norms, whereas others, like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, managed to balance personal style and respect by wearing a military-style field jacket that aligned with his identity while still paying homage to the solemnity of the occasion. GQ
In summary, Trump’s attire and conduct at Pope Francis’ funeral drew significant attention and criticism, highlighting the complexities of protocol and the scrutiny public figures face during high-profile events. While there was no strict dress code enforced, the expectations of decorum and respect at such solemn occasions remain significant, and deviations from these expectations can lead to public disapproval.
