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The outward appearance of a Roman emperor was one of the criteria underpinning his legitimacy. In the case of Elagabalus (218–222), the ancient authors, and especially Herodian, paid particular attention to his clothing tastes and often focused on his outfit, described as barbaric and more suitable for a woman than for a man. His ostentatious wearing of silk clothing, purple and gold, and long tunics covering his arms and legs denoted a taste for luxury that was not compatible with the simplicity affected by Augustus, the founder of the Principate. His costume jewelry, gold and gemstone crowns, and make-up all contributed to making Elagabalus a figure contrary to the expectations of the Romans and to explaining, at least in part, why he was rejected by his subjects.