Queen Camilla’s Unexpected Style Move at the Vatican Has Everyone Talking—Here’s Why It Matters More Than You Think
Yesterday marked a rare and captivating journey as King Charles and Queen Camilla left the familiar grounds of Buckingham Palace to venture into the historic heart of Rome. Their destination? A meeting with none other than Pope Leo XIV, the new steward of the Catholic Church since May. Sure, royal visits to the Vatican aren’t headline-grabbing on their own — but this time, something truly unprecedented unfolded, a landmark moment that hasn’t been seen since the 16th century. It’s fascinating to watch tradition and modernity collide as the British monarchy and the Vatican come together in a display of unity and unexpected symbolism. And speaking of symbolism, Queen Camilla’s fashion choice—a black mantilla with a fresh twist—had me wondering: when was the last time a royal’s hat sparked more buzz than a state affair? Dive in to uncover all the layers behind this extraordinary day. LEARN MORE
Yesterday, King Charles and Queen Camilla made their way from Buckingham Palace to Rome, to pay a visit to Pope Leo XIV, who took the reins of the Catholic Church back in May. And while a meeting between the British royals and the Vatican is not entirely unexpected, their day-long series of events did include a surprising modern-day first.
In keeping with traditional custom, Camilla wore an all black ensemble for the occasion, featuring a silk midi dress by London-based couture designer Fiona Clare. Constructed with a hidden front-zip detail and pleated skirt, the tailored piece featured long, slightly capped sleeves and an A-line silhouette. The queen added two brooches to the dress, while pairing it with black tights and pumps. Around her neck, she wore several strands of pearls, held together by a central diamond pendant.
To finish off the look, she picked out a black mantilla—a traditional lace veil—with a funky twist. The piece, courtesy of Irish haute couture milliner and royal favorite Philip Treacy, was designed with a leafy headband and similarly embroidered motifs. Given the proximity to Halloween, responders have joked that the statement piece was fitting for the upcoming holiday. Playfulness aside, women are traditionally expected to wear some sort of mantilla or headscarf when attending papal audiences, and her striking fashion choice befitted the monumental occasion.
Following their meeting at the Vatican, Charles and Pope Leo prayed together in the Sistine Chapel—marking the first time a British monarch and a Pope have prayed together in public since the 16th century. It was a historic move that signified a unity between the Church of England and the Catholic Church.




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