Pope Francis tops Esquire’s best-dressed list

Esquire has named Pope Francis in top place in its annual style ranking, beating off close competition from sharply dressed actors Bradley Cooper, Chris Pine, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

The spiritual leader to the Church’s 1.2 billion followers, and the head of the Vatican City State, Pope Francis has been praised for his image as a man of the people. The Argentine cleric, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, ascended to the papacy in March 2013 and proceeded to have a highly successful 2013, going on to be named TIME Magazine’s Person of the Year. 

For Esquire, it was the pontiff’s decision to tone down the papal wardrobe (out with all the ermine, gold, and red leather shoes favored by his predecessor Benedict) for a sleeker, simpler look that won him the award: 

« Pope Francis’s sartorial decisions have subtly signaled a new era (and for many, renewed hope) for the Catholic Church, » say the magazine. His simple white vestments and skullcap have created « the most approachable Pope in recent memory. »

While he’s got no fashion experience, Pope Francis did briefly work as a chemical technician and nightclub bouncer before training to become a Catholic priest.