Pope Francis' simple, unfussy style, including cream-colored cassocks and black leather shoes, contrasted sharply with his predecessor's more ornate attire. This understated approach made him an unlikely fashion icon, garnering attention from publications like The New York Times, The Cut, Rolling Stone, and Esquire.
Francis' choice of attire was seen as a reflection of his humble demeanor and commitment to simplicity, a departure from the extravagant style of Pope Benedict XVI. His simple style was interpreted as a visual manifestation of his commitment to serving the poor and marginalized, contrasting with the more traditional and ornate attire of his predecessor.
While his style appeared modest, it carried symbolic meaning. The white cassock represented purity and charity, while the black shoes, reminiscent of Franciscan friars' attire, suggested poverty and service. Experts like Carol Richardson highlighted the differing sartorial choices as reflections of deeper contrasts in their approaches to their roles within the Catholic Church.
An AI-generated image of Pope Francis in modern streetwear, though a hoax, subtly complimented his unique blend of tradition and modern relevance.