Meet Filippo Sorcinelli, the Openly Gay Designer Behind the Pope’s Wardrobe

A sign of strong faith in the contemporary world is embodied by Filippo Sorcinelli, who is not only a devout Catholic, but is also a proudly gay fashion designer covered in tattoos. Regardless of potential conservative backlash, he honors the Vatican through thoughtful and resonating designs, blurring ideological contrast for almost two decades now.

The first pontiff he dressed was Pope Benedict XVI, who wore his creation in a televised service back in 2007. From then on, Filippo created over 50 ornate vestments for him, all inspired by the intricacies of medieval motifs and baroque magnificence.

The 50-year-old designer’s sartorial service carried on as he received a call from the Office for the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff in 2013, one that came urgently after Pope Francis was elected. Of course, he needed an inauguration vestment, and Filippo diligently took on the task. 

During this pontificate, Filippo designed over 20 pieces as he cultivated depth and gathered inspiration from Giotto, the Renaissance painter responsible for the frescoes of the Papal Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi. A clear understanding that his work was meant to reflect the pope’s individuality, his collection includes a simple silk mitre. It was worn by the late Pope Francis prior to his passing, and honoring humility until the end, the same piece was used during his funeral as well.

Filippo’s remarkable contributions continue as he now designs Pope Leo XIV’s robes and mitres.

Beyond fashion, Filippo categorizes his atelier as a lifestyle concept, given that he embraces the various facets of the modern world. That includes the art of olfactory tailoring through his perfumery called UNUM. As wonderfully said through his website, he is embarking on “a journey through spirituality and harmony, in the constant and daring pursuit of beauty.”