Real reason Queen Camilla wore a surprising accessory to the Vatican | Royal | News

Her veil draped gracefully over her head and shoulders, symbolising both respect and modesty in accordance with Vatican protocol.

The long-standing dress code, which has been observed for centuries, requires women meeting the Pope to wear black attire with long sleeves and a veil as a sign of reverence.

By contrast, a small number of royal women from Catholic nations are granted what is known as “il privilegio del bianco” or “the privilege of wearing white.”

As Britain is a Protestant country, Queen Camilla was expected to adhere to the traditional black dress code, rather than the papal white permitted to Catholic queens and princesses.

However, her look caused quite a stir online, with some royal watchers divided over the dramatic headpiece. Taking to X, one user commented: “I see that Queen Camilla is dressed, head to toe, in black as required by Vatican protocol, as she is not Roman Catholic. Might I suggest that @Pontifex give this protocol the old ‘heave-ho’ and not make non-Catholic women dress like they’re attending a Victorian funeral?”

Another remarked on the styling similarities to the Princess of Wales, writing: “I don’t like it but many others love it. To me, it looks like a Temu version of Catherine’s headpiece worn at the coronation. Almost as if Queen Camilla wanted a tiara effect. If she wanted a statement veil, something like her beautiful wedding headpiece would have been lovely.”

A third observer added a more playful critique: “Queen Camilla’s headband is a very unique accessory – it looks straight out of a horror movie!”

Adding a personal and sentimental touch, Camilla was snapped wearing the late Queen Elizabeth II’s raspberry pip brooch, a diamond piece shaped like a cross.

The brooch was a poignant tribute to her late mother-in-law and served as a reminder of continuity within the monarchy.

Her accessories were completed with a string of classic pearls and matching earrings, echoing the understated grace that has come to define her royal style.