Even the whiteness of the "toga virilis" was subject to class distinction. After taking the "toga virilis" in 136, Marcus probably began his training in oratory. After taking the "toga virilis" in 136, Marcus Aurelius probably began his training in oratory. Usually, this was done when the young Roman assumed the "toga virilis". The boys donned the clothing of adulthood, the pure white toga virilis, or "man's gown". In AD 51, his brother Nero assumed the "toga virilis" despite not yet being 14.