How Ukrainian President Zelensky Chose His Clothes for Pope Francis’ Funeral

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made waves on the global stage not just for his leadership during the war with Russia but also for the unique way he uses fashion as a tool to communicate strength and resilience. On April 26, 2025, during Pope Francis’ funeral in Vatican City, Zelensky’s attire stood out, symbolizing the ongoing struggle of his country while also adhering to the somber dress code required by the occasion.

As the world tuned in to witness the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, many eyes were drawn to the Ukrainian leader’s wardrobe choice. Zelensky, whose usual attire during the war consisted of military-inspired shirts and casual styles, chose a more formal yet still military-themed outfit for the funeral. His all-black look was a striking contrast to his typical ensemble, which is a statement of solidarity with Ukraine’s soldiers on the front lines.

The funeral brought together leaders from around the world, including former U.S. President Donald Trump, U.K. Prince William, and French President Emmanuel Macron. The event was deeply symbolic, as Pope Francis was not only the first Latin American pope but also known for his humble approach to leadership. The dress code at the Vatican for such a solemn occasion was strict: men were advised to wear a dark suit with a black tie, and women were expected to wear long black dresses, veils, and gloves.

While many dignitaries adhered to the dress code in their own unique ways, including Melania Trump in Dolce & Gabbana and Jill Biden in Schiaparelli, Zelensky’s choice of clothing sparked conversation. His outfit was a carefully considered decision that blended formal respect with his unique identity as a wartime leader. Zelensky chose a tailored military-style black field jacket with patch pockets, buttoned up to the neck, which gave a nod to his usual military-inspired wardrobe but elevated it for the occasion. This was paired with a classic cotton shirt, straight-cut trousers, and black shoes. His wife, Olena Zelenska, also followed the dress code with a chic all-black ensemble, including a black skirt suit and high-heeled boots.

How Ukrainian President Zelensky Chose His Clothes for

The designer behind Zelensky’s outfit, Viktor Anisimov, has been working closely with the Ukrainian president to create clothing that reflects both the nation’s military resilience and modern sensibilities. The “capsule collection” created for Zelensky included natural, certified fabrics such as linen, cotton, and nettle, and was designed with the idea of preserving the essence of a military uniform while presenting it through a contemporary lens. These specially designed pieces are not available for the public to purchase, but they serve as a powerful symbol of Ukraine’s fight for survival and its commitment to maintaining dignity even in the face of adversity.

Anisimov’s work for Zelensky is not just about fashion. It’s about creating jobs for Ukrainians and supporting the country’s patriotic initiatives. Despite the war, Anisimov’s brand has continued to operate out of Kyiv, showing resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges. The collaboration between the designer and Zelensky is a reflection of the broader “Made in Ukraine” initiative, which has been promoted by Zelensky as a means to support local industries and show the world that Ukraine remains a strong and proud nation, even amidst war.

Zelensky’s choice of attire at the funeral also serves as a reminder of the human cost of the war in Ukraine. With over 43,000 civilian casualties reported by March 2025, the conflict has left deep scars on the country, both physically and emotionally. The images of Zelensky in his carefully chosen outfit, standing among the world’s most powerful leaders, convey a sense of dignity and strength despite the heavy toll the war has taken.

The world may have focused on the high-profile discussions held during the funeral, such as the 15-minute meeting between Zelensky and Trump in St. Peter’s Basilica, but it is the president’s sartorial choices that continue to captivate attention. His outfit at the funeral reflected not just the gravity of the occasion but also the indomitable spirit of Ukraine.

As Zelensky continues to navigate the political and diplomatic challenges of the war, his fashion choices—though often subtle—remain an important tool in his leadership. Whether wearing his military-style shirts or a tailored jacket for a funeral, Zelensky’s wardrobe communicates a narrative of defiance, strength, and resilience to the world.