Just like with the all-seeing eye and pyramid symbolism of the Illuminati, another reference to a secret society that gets quite a few nods in the fashion world is the square and compass symbolism of Freemasonry. It is this symbolism that plays an important role in the belief system of the Freemasons, as well as is included in the rituals of the secret society. Below you will learn some of the ways that the square and compass have found its way into today’s fashion world.
From solo crafters on Cafepress to a wide range of independent graphic artists to worldwide fashion designers, Masonic symbolism has found its way into T-shirts and hoodies sold both online and in retail stores. While some people are simply jumping on a generational bandwagon, and embracing symbolism thought controversial or rebellious – others are spreading the meaning behind the symbols to show support for a secret society that has a questionable, ritualistic history.
A lot of alternative-themed online shops geared towards selling clothing to the younger generation are notorious for embracing symbolism related to secret societies. The picture below highlights how the square and compass has been incorporated into fashion designs with other disturbing references, such as skulls and other symbols.
Masonic Symbolism in Women’s Wear
While there are plenty of T-shirts and hoodies sold that incorporate symbolism related to Freemasonry, something you don’t see very often is references to the secret society appearing in clothing for women – especially since women aren’t even allowed to join the organization. However, Greek designer Mary Katrantzou has decided to weave Masonic imagery into a dress design that appeared in the designer’s Fall Ready to Wear 2014 collection.
If you look closely and scan the intricacies of the featured dresses, you will notice the square and compass symbol hidden within the fabric print – the symbol of the Freemasons. At least two of her dresses, which include more than 30 different pieces, have this hidden symbolism. Katrantzou is known for blending digital artwork with a range of symbols and techniques. However, it is highly unlikely that she accidentally chose to include the Freemason symbolism; and the use in the design was purely intentionally.
Masonic Symbolism in Hats
Actor Ashton Kutcher is usually in the news for his past romantic relationship with Demi Moore, his ‘Three and a Half Men’ role, or his escalating relationship with Mila Kunis. However, this time…he’s been making the rounds in the news for something entirely different – a fashion statement that he has recently made. Known for wearing trucker hats (to the point that he may have even helped the sales of this fashion accessory), which is why him wearing a hat displaying a particular piece of symbolism associated with the Freemasons is a bit disturbing. The square and compass symbol is one of the most recognizable symbols of Freemasonry, and serves as the main design for the hat Kutcher is wearing in the photo below.
In case you didn’t know…
The Square is a symbol that represents virtue and morality, where Freemasons believe they must “square our actions by the square of virtue with all mankind.” The Compasses is a symbol of ‘boundaries’ and represent the wisdom of conduct for Freemasons, where they draw a strength to “circumscribe their desires and keep their passions within due bounds.”