I don't see a "dramatic difference" either. They're dressed 95% alike in the two photos.
The lace in the first picture (with Pope Benedict) is “Oh my goodness gracious, Maybelle. I haven’t seen anything like that since the Firestone girl’s wedding! I know what that cost, because I was at the fabric store when they special-ordered it from France. France! And her in white, too, when my mama told me her hairdresser said ...”
The lace in the second picture is, “Pretty nice. Good ironing job.”
Perhaps, you and I are not as fashion concious as some of our more sophisticated FReepers.
I am an old man who fondly remembers the pre-Vatican II Mass with all its oppulence and Gregorian chant. In fact, I can still serve at a Tridentine Mass but my arthritic knees would prevent me to kneel on bare marble while I recite the beautiful introductory prayers at the foot of the Altar.
You are crazy. There is a big difference. Per the pictures, the new pope walks next to way more black people.