At Pope Francis’s funeral mass in Vatican City on Saturday, US President Donald Trump once again found himself at the center of controversy — this time for his choice of attire. While nearly all global leaders in attendance, including French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Argentine President Javier Milei, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, wore black in keeping with traditional mourning customs, Trump notably stood out by wearing a lighter blue suit paired with a matching blue tie.
Black is widely recognized as the appropriate color for funerals across many cultures, symbolizing mourning and respect for the deceased. Deviating from this norm, especially at such a solemn event, was perceived by many as highly inappropriate. Although a few other dignitaries, like the UK's Prince William and India's President Droupadi Murmu, wore very dark shades of blue, their outfits were much closer to traditional mourning attire and blended into the respectful atmosphere. Trump's bright blue, however, was visibly conspicuous against the sea of black in St. Peter’s Square.
The backlash online was swift and harsh. Critics slammed Trump's choice as "disrespectful" and "embarrassing," accusing him of intentionally seeking attention at a moment meant for unity and solemnity. "Dude really wore a blue suit, not even black or navy at least, but blue. Totally embarrassing and disrespectful," one user commented, capturing the mood of many others who expressed their shock and disappointment. Another user posted, "He always has to stick out and try and be the center of attention," reflecting a broader sentiment that Trump's actions were consistent with his long-standing image of defying conventions.
Interestingly, former President Joe Biden, who also attended the service, wore a black suit paired with a blue tie — adhering to the expected dress code except for the color of the tie, which did not attract as much criticism. Trump's full blue ensemble, on the other hand, was seen as a more blatant breach of funeral protocol.
This episode adds to the long list of occasions where Trump’s personal style and penchant for standing apart have sparked controversy, particularly in settings demanding decorum and sensitivity.
