If Looks Could Kill- Evil Eye Fashion

Evil eye amulets hanging in a Mykonos storefront display.

Everyone has seen this evil eye symbol before, some probably even owned one at some point or another. Walking through the beautiful white and blue streets of Mykonos, the evil eye symbol can be seen everywhere. Some stores hang them out front not for sale, but for good luck. They are on display in all forms. The popular and trendy evil eye is not only a part of Greek history, but also a major fashion statement, especially when it comes to jewelry. Local Greek boutiques and jewelers sell evil eye everything from inexpensive children’s bracelets and necklaces to gold plated pieces sparkling with diamonds.

Small evil eye trinket bracelets sold in Mykonos.

The earliest evidence of the belief in the evil eye dates back about 3,000 years. As one of the strongest symbolic figures in the world, the evil eye is believed by ancient Roman and Greek cultures to provide protection against evil forces. The eye has symbolism in almost every country and religion in the world, such as Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam and Christianity. Though many cultures and religions have unique beliefs on the symbol, ultimately the overall idea is the same. The evil eye is thought to be a look that when given inflicts bad luck and harm. The superstition of the evil eye tells that looks hold enough power to bring about misfortune to the receiver of the glare. It was believed that the evil eye held the most power against those who had been praised too highly to the point that the admiration and attention was undeserved. The idea of being consumed with pride and ego would cast one’s own doom of the evil eye onto themselves. In addition to the amulets, the Greeks were known to have carried incense or a cross as protection against the evil eye. Wearing the amulet is thought to “reflect” the negative power of the evil glare and ward off the curse.

There is an evil eye design for every one. For those who don’t particularly want such a bold statement there are jewelers who have crafted subtle pieces that still represent the eye. Nowadays, wearing the amulet not only represents culture but also high fashion. Throughout the years, these iconic pieces have been gaining popularity and been seen on some of the trendiest celebrities such as Cameron Diaz, Kim Kardashian, Rihanna and so many more.

These necklaces are some of the culturally unique pieces representing the evil eye belief found in Mykonos. The evil eye is represented for different religions.