He says there will be no emulation between individuals, when no one is possessed of it.

But, in truth, it will be a source of grief and indignation to all, when they see those ornaments allowed to the wives of the Latin confederates of which they themselves have been deprived; when they see those riding through the city in their carriages, and decorated with gold and purple, while they are obliged to follow on foot, as if the seat of empire were in the country of the others, not in their own.

This would hurt the feelings even of men, and what do you think must be its effect on those of weak women, whom even trifles can disturb?
Neither offices of state, nor of the priesthood, nor triumphs, nor badges of distinction, nor military presents, nor spoils, can fall to their share.

Elegance of appearance, and ornaments, and dress, these are the women's badges of distinction; in these they delight and glory; these our ancestors called the women's world.

What else do they lay aside when in mourning, except their gold and purple?
And what else do they resume when the mourning is over?
How do they distinguish themselves on occasion of public thanksgivings and supplications, but by adding unusual splendour of dress?
But then, (it may be said,) if you repeal the Oppian law, should you choose to prohibit any of those particulars which the law at present prohibits, you will not have it in your power; your daughters, wives, and even the sisters of some, will be less under control.