Horning In
I have a conflicted relationship with horns. Along with images of Jesus (on the cross in 3-D sculpture, wearing a crown of thorns in a framed hologram, sitting at the table as part of a burgundy velvet Last Supper portrait, I am not kidding), the horn was one of the prevailing icons of my Italian-American childhood. My grandparents hung red plastic versions above their front doors and each of my cousins and uncles—even my dad, I think—wore curvy-with-a-tail gold styles on thick chains. Depending on whom you talk to, Italian horns symbolize good luck, protection against the "evil eye," or virility. To me, they've always seemed masculine, even macho, and maybe a little bit scary. But it's funny how impressions you've held for a lifetime can suddenly, unexpectedly change.
This morning in our cafeteria, I spotted the most beautiful girl wearing a silky, deep pink '70s dress, slouchy boots, and the prettiest horn necklace. It was slightly oversize and long, and just the perfect little finish to her outfit. I found one similar to hers here, but I also like the wild, fortune-teller feel of this clustered-charm necklace. And, if I really want to bring things full-circle and embrace my inner machismo, I'd choose this straight-up gold pendant from Alexis Bittar. It even comes with the requisite thick chain.
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