“AN ENDURING FASCINATION OF CHARMS”
EYE PROMISE
A PRECIOUS TALISMAN
“Eye Promise - a collection that marries jewellery with symbolism in a refreshing and edgy way.”
Concentric circles and evolving azure hues – we see them dangling from wrists or being conspicuously displayed in homes; the ubiquitous ‘evil eye’ seems to be omnipresent. When it comes to deflecting harm or ill intent, there is perhaps no charm as renowned as the Evil Eye . Illustrated in age-old mythologies from diverse cultures, the evil eye has always been depicted as a powerful, mystical element that helps ward off bad luck. This seemingly magical element was the sole inspiration for Outhouse to conceptualise Eye Promise - a collection that marries jewellery with symbolism in a refreshing and edgy way. Giving it a unique sense of direction and just the right kind of edginess for its elements, the collection is a subtle echo of history and tradition. A gripping narrative of these historical elements, Eye Promise is an ode to protection.
“A gripping narrative of these historical elements, Eye Promise is an ode to protection.”
The belief dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, when a form of apotropaic magic - charms and amulets that deflect misfortune were used. History has recorded a number of prominent symbols of apotropaic magic. A phenomenon brilliantly represented through Eye Promise is the protective energies these symbols emit. Undeniably, the evil eye and its striking blue is a prominent patron of good karma. Symbolizing truth and honesty, it provides direct protection against malicious vibes. This served as the main inspiration, the starting point of the tapestry that led to the creation of this collection - the very idea of protection.
JEWELLERY AND SYMBOLISM
Trinity
Circle of Life
Rune Star
Protego
Digging further into ancient symbolism, we at Outhouse, among the Evil Eye Jewellery, embedded other prominent elements into this collection.
Immersed intricately in carefully crafted pieces is The Trinity Star or The Triquetra - which represents the infinite circle of life. Explicitly containing the fundamentals of life: air, water, and earth, it is one of the oldest runes of protection.
The Pentacle, a five pointed star, has several layers of symbolism that indicate love, light, unity and a quest for knowledge - making it a shield against all evil forces.
Coined from the Latin word for protection, the eponymous Protego, as the name suggests, is a symbol of protection.
THE MAKING
Inspired by the ancient symbols of Evil Eye, Triquetra and the Nine Pointed Star and Goddess of Moon as true silhouettes of design, this collection is rooted in the brand’s belief in safeguarding. With its two-sided form, these evil eye charms form a Universe of Protection. On one side, it features a large hand painted enamel pupil in the centre forming the evil eye, and on the other side, stones are intricately set in prong setting.
“A symbolic collection that’s more than just an accessory, it portrays the form of the universe and radiates positive energies for its wearer to soak in.”
These stones are set in a way that they portray the form of the universe: for the wearer to soak it all in and recognize their true place in the universe. Representing ‘balance and infinity’ in a style personified by grace; the Stars, Squares, and the Sun make for eye-catching motifs and embody themes reminiscent of stability, positivity, and happiness in an artistic way. Despite their diverse cultural adaptations, these symbols maintain the same meaning no matter how the story is told. Commodified in its essence, the evil eye has always been integrated into jewellery. Essentially an ode to protection, Outhouse upholds the tenets of these ancient elements through its decidedly utilitarian Eye Promise. A symbolic collection that’s more than just an accessory, it portrays the form of the universe and radiates positive energies for its wearer to soak in. Made with hand painted enamel and intricate Swarovski stones, Eye Promise is daintily edgy and effortlessly translated as ‘a gift with a meaning.’
A GIFT WITH A MEANING
“Made with hand painted enamel and intricate Swarovski stones, Eye Promise is daintily edgy and effortlessly translated as a gift with a meaning. ”
The signature talisman whether stacked or worn by itself is perfect for everyday wear. To be loved and cherished forever, like an eternal promise against it all. Making for an ideal gift to someone special, it is a perfect translation of love and good wishes on your wrist. Furthermore, representing growth and protection in a style personified by grace, these elements symbolize the creative forces of life. #EyePromiseToProtect portrays the harmony of these elements, and a sense of serenity is offered to its wearer.
PARTNERS IN CHANGING THE WORLD
“With Eye Promise, the concept to protect and care extends not only to the people we love, but the world around us, too. With #EyePromiseToCare, the pledge to protect extends to our ultimate nurturer - the earth.”
The expression of comfort in the face of modern adversaries like climate change or increasing societal discomfort has seen the Evil Eye turning into a recurring symbol - whether it’s on the wing of a plane or sported by the newest it girl, the Evil Eye has been around since the dawn of civilization for justified reasons and is here to stay. Inspired by the Universe and its endless bounty, the earth was an indispensable part of the creation process of this collection and in keeping with the spirit of Eye Promise, the brand deemed it fit to join hands with CERE (Center for Environment Research and Education.) With a conscious consumer base that wants to indulge in responsible consumption, corporate social responsibility goes beyond accountability to a time of action.
Keeping in mind the global climate crisis, a testament to Outhouse’s belief in safeguarding is their effort to give back to the earth. 10% sale proceeds of the Trinity Pendant and Protego chain bracelet from this collection will go towards the Urban Afforestation Project (UAP), wherein native trees will be planted across India. With Eye Promise, the concept to protect and care extends not only to the people we love, but the world around us, too. With #EyePromiseToCare, the pledge to protect extends to our ultimate nurturer - the earth. Though its primitive roots indicate superstitious connotations, modern man is no exception to the seemingly effective charm of the evil eye. It has maintained a steady hold on human cultures across the globe, and its imagery is ever relevant in fashion through symbolism. Whether this is a renaissance in fashion and art, or reinvention of the evil eye for modern usage, its sudden surge in popularity is undeniable. Eye Promise's tendency to mirror the past with the present and its ability to transcend boundaries is perhaps an indicator of its powers - proving that it is more than just a mere trinket.