Style isn’t as cut and dry as most people would love to make it. Style is a studied and labored tradition that has been carried on, and handed down for generations. We do not want to dictate your wardrobe, as much as we’d love to inspire the mind, and open up possibility. Style {Wise} provides resources to inspire creativity through exploring the mysteries and wonders of the past.
possessing the characteristics of Byron or his poetry, especially romanticism, melancholy, and melodramatic energy.
Regarded as one of the most important English poets, as well as a leader of the Romantic Movement of the early 19th Century. . . he was a revolutionary in the Greek War of Independence, a politician, as well as a major celebrity of the time!
Indeed, before Beatlemania – there was “BYRONMANIA”, as described by his own wife Annabella. Self-aware to the max, and huge proponent of personal promotion- his celebrity was equivalent to that of a modern day rock star of the time.
As an Aquarius, it is no surprise that he was extremely odd and eccentric about certain things. He had a fascination for the macabre and stories tell of him having a coffin at the dining table of his family’s Gothic manor, as well as collecting the skulls of animals which he proudly displayed in an enormous shooting gallery. He also loved to drink out of a monkey skull turned into an elaborate chalice…so they say.
His antics were legendary, however, as much as he enjoyed the spotlight, he retired to a self imposed exile from Britain later in his life. . . how Byronic.
He knew himself a villain—but he deem’d
The rest no better than the thing he seem’d;
And scorn’d the best as hypocrites who hid
Those deeds the bolder spirit plainly did.
He knew himself detested, but he knew
The hearts that loath’d him, crouch’d and dreaded too.
Lone, wild, and strange, he stood alike exempt
From all affection and from all contempt:
“The Corsair” (1814) by Lord Byron
Incredible to know these robes are all over 150 years old, and as beautifu and stylish as ever! Time traveled and dripping with the luxury of mystery . . . any of these robes are as home with Lord Byron in his gothic estate to modern day hype boys on the subways of New York City.
Check out for instance rapper FUTURE below wearing this incredibly opulent embroidered velvet robe with Vetements X Doc Martens shoes . . . time is relative – style is eternal.
One of the most outrageous things the notorious playboy did in his life, you will get a kick out of!
Back in the 1800s, it was quite customary for lovers to keep mementos of their love of letters, drawings, even a lock of hair – however, Byron took this to the extreme and kept clippings of each lovers pubic hairs and kept them in labeled envelopes in his library for safe keeping…
Now that’s Byronic!
{also…AQUARIUS, much?}
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30% OFF SALE UNTIL 02/01/2020
And in honour of LORD BYRON we’d like to highlight some recent acquisitions that absolutely conjure this unique style spirit from the {SHOP}
+MOODY BLUE+ Odd Fellows Initiation Ceremony Robe
Antique Embroidered Blue Velvet Luxurious Secret Society Robe
Below is a little style inspo gallery in the Byronic Hero fashion to put you in the mood. . .
Treasures and Artifacts of Days Long Past: Allegory for the 21st Century
“Tis the perception of the beautiful, A fine extension of the faculties, Platonic, universal, wonderful, Drawn from the stars, and filtered through the skies, Without which life would be extremely dull”
-LORD BYRON
That man of loneliness and mystery,
Scarce seen to smile, and seldom heard to sigh— (I, VIII)
The Corsair (1814)
+BONE+ Odd Fellows Initiation Ceremony Robe
Antique Victorian Bone Velvet & Champagne Silk Embroidered Luxurious Secret Society Regalia Robe
So if you’ve kept up with us over the last 8 years our +TAROT+ Dress is one of the pride and joys of our brand. It is a beautiful image full of iconography of life – various moments we all experience whilst on the rollercoaster. The highs and lows all told visually….which admittedly as artists is one of the Tarot’s most appealing features.
The graphic nature of the cards; their colours and line all make for gorgeous impact, and with its chainmailesque quality- it is such a delight to see it hanging there, as if by magic…over one hundred and fifty cards linked together in a grid-like pattern. Complete Paco Rabanne (who we must dedicate an entire post to and will update this when we do!) vibes but with a romantic esoteric edge.
We’ve had the honor of showcasing it in two fashion shows in Hamilton, ON – premiering in 2016 in our aptly titled +TAROT+ COLLECTION, and again in 2018 at the Zoetic Theatre for the City of Hamilton’s Fashion Show entitled “Darkness” alongside Hamilton’s top designers.
It was always such an achievement each time we were able to showcase this dress, on a body, walking and moving and seeing people’s faces amazed. It truly is a work of art, which is why this unique opportunity is all the more special.
Downtown Hamilton was lucky indeed when The Witch’s Fix appeared. Full of beauty to the highest degree – a bona fide witch shop on John Street just off of King in the gorgeous Treble Hall building. Owner Lauren Campbell, who began her career in witching on Etsy (like us), offers everything a cool downtown ubran witch might need – crystals, charms, spell kits, candles, occult books, incense, and of course- TAROT CARDS!
At the end of September, a call was put out for an artist to showcase work in her “Toil & Treble Gallery” with the request for a piece revolving around the theme of “Cabinet of Curiosities”. . . what better than a fabulous mannequin in a Tarot Dress in the main window display of a witch boutique?!
Exactly, our thoughts…and whilst the dress is – well a dress, it is also a virtual cabinet of curiosities – each card a singular capsule of one of the many curiosities of life.
Take for instance, the FIVE OF WANDS – five youthful characters in different outfits imitating fighting with their large sticks, describing those minor conflicts you might have at work, with siblings, and school mates….compared to the FIVE OF CUPS- a shrouded figure stares head bent down at three chalices toppled and spilled over not noticing the two full he has still behind him; a curious situation indeed.
“Remember that the Tarot is a great and sacred arcanum – its abuse is an obscenity in the inner and a folly in the outer. It is intended for quite other purposes than to determine when the tall dark man will meet the fair rich widow.”
Each card represents a moment in everybody’s life which is why it is such an immense honour to have this one of a kind work out loud and proud for the public to see.
Viewers are encouraged to take a good look at the dress and take note of cards they are immediately drawn to and contact The Eye of Faith via email or DM on Instagram (@theeyeoffaith)!
The dress will be in the window indefeinitely, but we will update the website with news as we receive. Seems like Amanda (the mannequin) is right at home…
Please, if you are in the Hamilton, ON area go down to The Witch’s fix for a hit of sidewalk divination and pay Lauren a visit. Let her know The Eye of FaithThe Eye of Faith recommended her shop.
This one-of-a-kind piece of fashion art is also available for purchase in our {SHOP} so follow the top menu link, or the banner link below to visit, or click here for a direct link to the listing!
That’s right! On this day. . . January 8, 1953 a KING was born. King of so many things… King of Rock N Roll, King of Hearts, King of his own castle (GRACELAND which you can still visit today), and most definitely KING OF STYLE!
To this day, his classic American style has us all under his influence whether we know it or not. His looks are nonchalant, timelessly cool, and bold without making a fuss. Say it with a colour, a ring, a texture, a pattern, or better yet…a single look.
And that hair! It’s a god damn work of art. . . we can only dream. Elvis definitely appreciated the importance of looking good to feel good, and every once in a while, have some fun and take the plunge…
In honor of this KING OF COOL, here’s a sweet little gallery of some of his hot looks for your viewing pleasure and eternal inspiration!
That’s enough inspiration to get you through at least this next decade!
Not everyone is as bold or brave(or cool), however this Capricorn King was doing it with his eyes closed. Sadly, Elvis Aaron Presley died prematurely at the age of 42 on August 16, 1977.
He is remember today for his timeless music and style.
“You’ve got to follow that dream, wherever that dream may lead to.”
-Elvis Presley
Until next time,
{theEye}
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ELVIS APPROVED
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From the second I saw this vivid Italian woman with her wild high fashion look and heard her speak (her name was Stegania Rotolo who was a signer herself, but would die tragically only a year after this!) I knew to be ready for something truly out of this world.
And boy did she deliver. . . (Thanks, Stefania!)
This is “Night Rider” but aptly named Venus (fresh out of conjunction with Jupiter, but that’s a different Venus entirely…) . . .Venus Dobdson, to be exact.
Nothing better than starting a Monday off right with a little obscure disco. Watch the video., because you definitely won’t be disappointed!
Hope you enjoyed!
HAPPY MONDAY!
Looking forward to 12/12/19 on Thursday.
LAST FULL MOON OF THIS YEAR. LAST FULL MOON OF THE DECADE!!!
Hopefully this song put enough pep in your step to get you through the rest of you daze.
Make sure also yo visit our {SHOP} newly added items, and use code XIXIXI to save 25% at anytime!
The struggle is real. More and more everyday we ponder the {FUTURE} of humanity . . . and it doesn’t always seem to most promising. If we’re not careful, we could be the next on the endangered species list!
This anxiety has been prevalent throughout history, but with the growing attention on artificial intelligence and its impact on society. Indeed, many jobs have been and will soon be replaced by a computer, and robot technology has already been implemented in many workplaces all around the world. And lot’s not even start with Sophia…
This is image is from “The Southwest Radio Church” circa. 1980. What a bizarre image…notice the “666” – the mark of the beast! Considering the shape technology (computers, the internet, and the advent of social media) has taken, it seems impossible to remove the notion that perhaps its not too far off from the truth.
We also have 1984 – obviously a nod to George Orwell’s dystopian classic of the same name. Whilst Big Brother began as a fictional concept, a world where your every move and thought is monitored truly isn’t that far off. Indeed, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has already admitted that our “private” information is constantly monitored and even sold on our behalf. China is already using face recognition technology and fervent surveillance to watch over every move of their citizens…
It’s funny that this image warns of the Computer’s eminent approach, though it was made far before all these things seemed within the tangible realm of possibility! They hadn’t even heard of the world wide web (www) . . . but that’s a whole other topic.
Just some food for thought, as always…
Be sure to check out the {SHOP}! Remember XIXIXI gets you 25% OFF at the checkout, and we offering FREE SHIPPING to the USA!
1: the reanimated body of a dead person believed to come from the grave at night and suck the blood of persons asleep
2a: one who lives by preying on others
Scorpio season is upon us (how are we all faring? Nothing too terrifying, hopefully), and this sign and season are well known for invoking the deep darkness within us all . . . it is a moment for clarity, to explore your shadows, and hopefully by the end of it all – come out transformed.
Scorpio is ruled by the Eight House (House of secrets, the occult, sex, birth, and of course, DEATH) and the planet PLUTO (the appointed ruler of the underworld in Greek mythology)…so the concept of vampirism + SCORPIO make total sense.
The seductive charm of the Vampire puts the victim into a kind of trance, not expecting the deadly bite that comes later. . . if you are dealing with a particularly dark Scorpio, you might just be in for a touch of psychic vampirism according to Dion Fortune, author of Psychic Self-Defense.
Scorpios do have a natural inclination towards dark pyschic voyages using their unique gifts for their own selfish gain(s). As she puts it:
“Now vampirism is contagious; the person who is vampirized, being depleted of vitality, is a psychic vacuum, himself absorbing from anyone he comes across in order to refill his depleted resources of vitality. . . We all know that, when caught off our guard, there comes a dark temptation from the depths of our lower selves, something atavistic stirs, and we think thoughts, or even do deeds, of which we would never have believed ourselves capable. We have heard the voice of the Dark Angel speaking. ”
As much as Scorpio is known for its dark side – with the dark, must come the light, and the emphasis on healing and regeneration must be highlighted during this time!
Transformation can be deep, but you could always begin by updating your wardrobe, so make sure to visit the {SHOP} where we will be posting many NEW time traveled treasures…
Jimi didn’t even know the thoughts he would conjure when he posed for that iconic shot of him dressed as a VAMPIRE! How perfect…if anyone knows who, what, when, or why that photo was captured please let us know in the COMMENTS.
Because, like so many things on here . . . it is a mystery!
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.
-Henry David Thoreau
That is a quote by the great American philosopher Henry David Thoreau, and it perfectly encapsulates what The Eye of Faith is about.
ESTABLISHED 11.11.11.
In fact, The Eye of Faith is a timeless universal message of having faith in your destiny, and knowing that there is a greater force watching over that dream – always guiding the way.
It is a symbol as old as man himself; and one that we inherently can all relate to at the end of the day. The Ancient Egyptians , the Alchemists, The Freemasons, The Vatican, The Oddfellows (who we will be touching base on quite a bit in the near {FUTURE}), and dare we mention…..the ILLUMINATI!!!!
8 years ago today (EST. 11.11.11.), The Eye of Faith was born of a dream to explore the {PAST}, bring it to the {PRESENT}, and help shape the future! There have always been so many incredible moments to muse over that you rarely see brought to the forefront- so naturally, we took upon ourselves to do just that!
Explorations through time of remarkable people, places, and things that eternally inspire. . . we began as a vintage style blog, and could never dream the opportunities we would get in the meantime. Since then we have had pieces perused over and purchased by international artists, style influencers, television and movies, celebrities, and museums around the world!
1100 (coincidence?) POSTS, and over ONE MILLION VIEWS!
We’ve also been blessed to foray our knowledge into creating original designs that adhere to our principles.
‘Raging Bull” Supercrawl 2019, photo by Cyprian Estrada – all made using repurposed, reused, and found vintage fabrics and materials by The Eye of Faith.
Every year billions of pounds of clothing and textiles are put to landfills, and it truly is a travesty when with a bit of ingenuity and an open mind- anything can be transformed into something truly special…which is why, our original pieces are made primarily using vintage materials and fabrics that we have been fortunate to collect and acquire over time.
Our hunt for premium quality vintage pieces that are timeless and unique continues…and we will be posting more of these treasures in our {SHOP}. Remember, you are invited to use code XIXIXI to receive 25% OFF from any purchase, and most of our items are FREE SHIPPING in the US. Don’t be afraid…just something to think about!
The Eye of Faith: Celebrating 8 Years of Hard Work & Mastery!
Style is knowing who you are, what you want, and not giving a damn
-Gore Vidal
So in honour of 8 years of hard work and mastering the illusions of time, we wanted to take a look back at our 8 highest viewed posts that have provided inspiration not only to us, but evidently thousands of others around the world. Many thanks to everyone who has supported The E.O.F. over the years.
No surprise with this one when looking at our site’s stats! In fact, this is exactly the kind of post The Eye of Faith was built to have inhabit it…a wonderful gallery of prime vintage workwear inspiration photos from actual photographs of the working man from the late 1800s to the 1940s, actual articles of clothing, advertisements, and details that all encapsulate that vintage workwear feel that is so popular at this moment, especially in men’ style!
Since the dawn of civilization, man has been hard at work building the great cities we live in, gathering the food we eat, and finding the resources we need to stay afloat on this mad wild planet. It’s never been easy, but someone’s got to do it. So next time you’re walking down the sidewalk, or taking a stroll down the grocery isle, save a thought for the hoards of men and women who have put their blood, sweat, and tears into making the vision of this world a reality for us all.
This one is a bit more surprising, but in an age of celebrity obsession, I guess it really shouldn’t be that much of a shock. These two were definitely the IT couple for a hot moment, and their matching hairstyles and 90s minimal cool definitely seem to have struck a chord and we can’t forget.
It’s like youth on fire with these two. Their energy is obviously contagious between the two, and they really seem symbiotic to eachother . . . . most of the time, at least. All good thing must come to an end, and it’s always best to leave the relationship at a high, we get that.
Keep meaning to do more of these VINTAGE RED CARPET ROMANCE posts (Julliette Lewis & Brad Pitt were another favourite, but just didn’t cut the Top 8) , and there are a few couples on the To-Do List, but please, if you have a suggestion…leave it in the COMMENTS below!
This one was no surprise, however! MAILA NURMI was destined to a be a part of The E.O.F. Style Idol & Divinity Squad, and to keep growing that section of our blog over the years. These posts are FIRE!
Especially, this one….Maila Nurmi or VAMPIRA, as most of us know her, was a pioneer; a groundbreaker of individuality and style. Can you imagine being a woman in the 1950s and living the life she did?! She was good friends with James Dean, was the first ever horror show host (and was nominated for an Emmy in 1954 for her work), and was an overall bad ass B . . .
“Vampira is a kind of entity (and you can call her a woman though she is androgynous) that survives in this world. I, Maila Nurmi, am not.”
We do always have our finger on the pulse . . . and its really no surprise to us that today on November 11, 2019 – the concept of androgyny is a hot topic and continues to shift the main stream perception of individuality and style.
No longer are the rules of gender as it relates to style so stuck. Concepts of unisex wardrobing is being embraced by not only street culture, but high fashion, as well.
This is one of our earliest posts, and a testament to the fascination our society has with gender and its role in our identities as people.
“As you know, I’m androgynous. I can wear a jacket that most guys wouldn’t put on. But you make it in guys’ sizes, and suddenly they’re wearing them. I think styles should get back to getting people to wear things that look so good that they don’t care.”
Such a good sign that Ms. Neile Adams made her way into the TOP 5 Most Viewed Posts…another E.O.F. STYLE DIVINITY – one who doesn’t get enough recognition in the mainstream, which is exactly why this post was made in the first place!
She was the long time love and companion of action superstar Steve McQueen, and an integral force in helping him make it through the wild rollercoaster of Hollywood. Born in the Philipines, she was an actress, model, and stylista in her own right!
So glad so many people found their way to her beautiful face. Make sure to check this one out!
“My life and times with Steve had spanned twenty-four years. More than half my life at the time of his death. They were over now. Gone. Finished.
That he loved me and that I had been the most important person in his life, I have no doubt. That I loved him and that he had been the most influential person in mine cannot be denied.
Good-bye, my friend. You are missed. It sure was one hell of a ride.”
Neile Adams {read more here}
3. {DO-IT-RIGHT} – HOW TO MEN’S VINTAGE-STYLE [SWIMSUIT INSPIRATION]
Of course, a vintage mens swimwear inspiration post would make its way into the TOP 3! We have had many of the years {check out our posts tagged SURF}, but this one seems to be the one that keeps people visiting year after year…amazing!
This is a unique post because we showcased some of our prime vintage photographs of dudes from the 1910s – 1960s in classic swim trunks and showed how the {PAST} has infiltrated the {PRESENT} in contemporary brands and their then latest swim trunk styles.
Just another testament to keeping it classic…you’ll never have to worry about a thing when it comes to getting dressed each and every day. With a world full of stresses…who needs anymore?
By looking through dozens of vintage photographs, advertising, fashion plates, and magazines we were able to sum up certain elements that characterized each era:
America had James Dean…France has Alain Delon. Bad Ass to the max. Handsome AF. Stylish doesn’t even cut it when explaining this savant of style, which is exactly why we have worshiped this idol consistently for years, and apparently you do too!
There hasn’t been a single day since posting this that someone from around the world hasn’t perused this post about the iconic and divine – Anita Pallenberg!
“I’d wear that [second-hand red fox fur coat] to modelling jobs with just my underwear, boots and a bag because you couldn’t leave your clothes lying around. The other models would steal them!” -Anita Pallenberg
A model in the early 60s, Anita made her way into movies and rock and roll. Starring in such cult favourites as Barbarella, Performance, and Candy. We love her spin as the great tyrant in Barbarella, where her voice is dubbed yet her appeal cuts through the screen. This exotic alien villian is the perfect yin to Jane Fonda’s yang in the 1968 cult classic.
Style maven supreme, rock goddess, bohemian queen – this is the internet’s best look at the ultimate E.O.F. Style Divinity. This post was designed to showcase some of the best Anita Pallenberg content this planet did ever see…so check her out ad take in her wild energy!
So, there you have it! 8 TOP POSTS for 8 YEARS of THE EYE OF FAITH!!!
Over ONE MILLION VIEWS and over ONE THOUSAND POSTS!
We could never have done it without you, so thank you so much for your viewership, your support, your contributions, and your faith!
MThis is another REPOST of a popular topic here: HALLOWEEN!!!!
We sure have a reputation for keeping it spooky (since 2011!) so THANK YOU to everyone who helped get us to where we are today with this humble treasure trove of vintage musings...TRICK or TREAT?
It’s Halloween, and we thought that called for a special {PHOTOBLAST} in honor of the occasion!
We’ve devised a ghoulish buffet of vintage Halloween treats for your eyes and minds to delight in and devour!!!
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Halloween Mid-West Mag Cover 1955 Costumes popular with kids and adults as shown on Mid-West Magazine’s cover Oct 30, 1955
We say this a lot, but some things just never change, and if anything, our brothers and sisters of the past were forced to be a bit more creative when it came to the challenges of costuming yourself for the big night!
So, that said, what are you being for Halloween (or what were you, for those enjoying the early bird weekend special)? Let us know in the comment section below! And make sure you have a Happy Scary Halloween!
This is a repost of one of our most wildly popular posts of all time! Thanks for visiting THE EYE OF FAITH and visit our {SHOP} section to see what time traveled pieces we have in store...
HAPPY HALLOWEEN !
We are getting psyched up here, and in true E.O.F. tradition we wanted to spoil our readers with a weird and wonderful stash of creepy vintage halloween photos we have collected from scouring the depths of the interwebs…
It seems, sometimes the sheer simplicity of some of these costumes make for the creepiest outcome…although, a murderous clown will always give you the creeps especially standing behind an innocent baby bystander.
Perhaps, you will even get a little inspiration for your own costume from these crazy odd balls…
Hope you enjoy! Want to share your creepy costume with us? Email us at the.eye.of.faith@gmail.com // we would love to hear from you!
Until next time,
{theEye}
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