When Pope Leo first appeared on the central balcony of Saint Peter's Basilica following his election on May eighth, observers of Vatican fashion immediately noticed significant changes. The simple white cassock and silver cross that had characterized Pope Francis were replaced with more elaborate traditional vestments including a red satin shoulder cape called a mozzetta, a burgundy stole decorated with gold embroidery, and a golden cross suspended from a double strand of silken gold cord.
Throughout Pope Leo's initial weeks in office, Catholic observers who follow liturgical fashion continued to spot additional traditional elements returning to papal attire. These included details like cufflinks, white trousers, and decorative lace, all elements that had been largely absent during the previous papacy.

The shift in papal wardrobe has prompted speculation about whether Pope Leo's embrace of traditional vestments signals broader changes in Vatican policy and approach. After the revolutionary style of Pope Francis, Vatican watchers are questioning if this return to historical papal dress indicates a more comprehensive return to traditional practices.

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