As one fan explained, the prince was following the dress code recommended by the Vatican.

According to the Vatican, the funeral dress code “requires men to wear a dark suit with a long black tie and a button of the same colour on the left lapel of the jacket, where only Vatican honours can be placed”. It also says that attendees are “allowed to wear white shirts”.

So, William’s choice of outfit was completely appropriate and fully respected the guidelines.

William ‘reluctant’ to attend Pope’s funeral

Even though he eventually went, the Prince of Wales was reportedly “reluctant” to follow his father’s orders and attend the funeral on his behalf.

King Charles wasn’t able to go to the funeral himself because of an old royal tradition.

Buckingham Palace explained that the king “will not travel to the Vatican, in accordance with protocol and precedence which dictates that the Sovereign does not attend funerals.”

The same rule was observed back in 2005 when Charles went to Pope John Paul II’s funeral in place of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

According to the MailOnline, Prince William was “reluctant to obey the order to go to Rome on Saturday until his father pulled rank”.

After the Pope passed away on Easter Monday (April 21), Charles shared a heartfelt tribute.

“Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the Church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry,” he said.

“His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith. And to those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others.”

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