The significance of Princess Charlene wearing white at Pope Leo XIV's inauguration

IOL News

19-05-2025

Princess Charlene Princess Charlene of Monaco.
Image: Facebook
At the historic inauguration of Pope Leo XIV on Sunday in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, much attention was given to the attendees' attire, particularly that of Princess Charlene of Monaco.
When she arrived dressed in a pristine white ensemble complete with a lace veil, many observers were struck by her striking appearance.
While most women at papal audiences and events traditionally wear black, Princess Charlene's choice of white was not a breach of protocol but rather a rare privilege steeped in Catholic tradition known as the 'privilège du blanc', which means the "privilege of the white."
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The 'privilège du blanc' is a centuries-old custom within the Catholic Church that allows certain Catholic queens and princesses to wear white in the presence of the Pope.
While the rule for most Catholic women during audiences with the Pope is to wear a black dress and veil, which is known as a mantilla, this privilege is extended to a very small number of royal women from predominantly Catholic monarchies.
In total, there are currently seven royal women permitted to partake in the "privilège du blanc": Queen Sofía and Queen Letizia of Spain
Queen Mathilde and Queen Paola of Belgium
Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg
Princess Charlene of Monaco
Princess Marina of Savoy.
Princess Charlene, the consort of Prince Albert II of Monaco, is a Catholic; therefore, she qualifies.
Although she was born in South Africa and converted to Catholicism prior to her wedding in 2011, her status as the Catholic princess of a Catholic principality grants her the right to wear white at papal events.
Charlene opted for a white midi-length Elie Saab dress for the event, featuring modest long sleeves and a delicate scalloped hem.
The fabric was adorned with white embroidery, adding texture and dimension to the otherwise understated design.
She accessorised with a small Akris clutch and completed her ensemble with a traditional white veil and classic pointed-toe stiletto pumps.
IOL Lifestyle