Vatican’s iconic Swiss Guards get a style refresh

The Swiss Guards, famous for their colorful Renaissance-style uniforms, have revealed a new look — a sleek black suit with a yellow-and-white belt and Mao-style collar.

The updated uniform, which revives a centuries-old design last used in the 1970s, will be worn by senior officers at formal events such as diplomatic dinners, while the iconic blue, yellow, and red uniforms will remain for ceremonies and daily duty.

Founded in 1506, the Swiss Guards are often called the world’s oldest standing army, created by Pope Julius II to defend the Vatican. Today, only 135 soldiers serve, all of them Swiss, Catholic, and under 30, trained both as soldiers and as symbols of Vatican tradition.

Each May, new recruits are sworn in, commemorating the 147 guards who died protecting Pope Clement VII during the Sack of Rome in 1527. This year, the ceremony follows the death of Pope Francis and the election of Pope Leo XIV.

Plans are also underway to renovate the Guards’ barracks, potentially opening the way for female recruits in the future.