I was browsing the pewter skull masks and other bobbles in Diablo 4's premium battle pass tiers when it occurred to me that premium cosmetics look like premium cosmetics. That is, "premium cosmetic" is a vibe with definite characteristics. In fantasy games at least, those characteristics tend to be intricate, shiny textures—often but not always precious metals—and lots of straps, belts, and other bits and bobs.
The skull above is a prime example of the premium cosmetic aesthetic: Intricately detailed metal with a characterful but mild tarnish level, leather straps around the horns, and a cloth blindfold which has not taken into account the glowing third eye on the forehead. One look and you just know this is a premium battle pass tier item. Incredibly, this observation remains true even if you go all the way back to the very first premium cosmetic I can remember, Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion's infamous horse armor:
