That was the first thing I noticed. He looked very formal, very "priest" like, and it did not sit well with me at all. The piece of turban hanging down on his left side may or may not have significance, but the overall I think the clothes are a very serious indicator. He has ascended in rank in some way, and seems to indicate it by shedding the vest.
< I agree. Since I have to be away from the computer for most of the rest of today, perhaps there are some here who can do a deeper evaluation of his dress in comparison to past appearances is in order (in addition to the turban).