Trump's blue suit at Pope Francis' funeral sparks unexpected debate

As dignitaries gathered in St. Peter's Basilica to bid farewell to Pope Francis, US President Donald Trump's attire unexpectedly became a topic of conversation.

Breaking from Vatican tradition, Trump attended Saturday’s funeral wearing a dark blue suit, a light blue tie, and his signature American flag lapel pin. According to Vatican protocol, men are expected to wear a dark suit paired with a black tie and black lapel button for papal funerals. Trump also reportedly left immediately after the ceremony, skipping the burial rites.

According to the dress code required by Vatican officials for Pope Francis' funeral, men were required to wear a dark suit, along with a long black tie. Trump shows up in blue. pic.twitter.com/Ou5ckXjJqm

— Molly Ploofkins (@Mollyploofkins) April 26, 2025

First Lady Melania Trump adhered strictly to the Vatican’s guidelines, wearing a long black dress and veil.

While other global leaders, including former US President Joe Biden and the UK's Prince William, also wore dark blue suits, their ensembles were more subdued compared to Trump’s. Biden was notably spotted taking a selfie with Uganda’s Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa. Prince William represented King Charles III, who remained in the UK due to health concerns.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky opted for an all-black outfit without a tie, a decision that drew some attention. Zelensky had previously faced criticism for dressing informally during a February visit to the White House, responding then that he would only return to formal wear after the end of Russia’s war on Ukraine.

Reactions to Trump’s attire quickly surfaced online.

Political analyst Molly Ploofkins wrote on X, "According to the Vatican’s dress code, men were required to wear a dark suit and black tie. Trump shows up in blue."

Critic Ron Filipkowski quipped, "One guy shows up in a blue suit to the Pope's funeral. You’ll never guess who."

However, others defended Trump. Political strategist Joey Mannarino praised his look, calling it “complete and total class” and said Trump’s appearance projected a strong image for America. Mannarino also pointed out, "The dress code called for a dark suit. Navy blue qualifies. Trump looked fit, youthful, and perfectly appropriate. Prince William and King Abdullah wore navy too."

The funeral Mass, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, drew over 250,000 mourners to St. Peter’s Square. Afterward, Pope Francis's coffin was carried through the streets of Rome before his burial at the Basilica of St. Mary Major—a location deeply meaningful to him—rather than at St. Peter’s Basilica.