Femininity is expressed in so many different ways all around the world, and today I want us to take a look at Africa more precisely West Africa.

One thing that is so special about African femininity is that it is hidden in the smallest details. Some aspects of it are visible and some are not to just anyone.

What are waist beads?

Waist beads are colorful chains of pearls or beads that African women wear around their waist and/or hips. In some African countries, they also wear them around their hands and ankles.

Historically, waist beads were worn by little girls to keep track of their growth. As they grow taller and bigger, the pearl chains would get tighter and tighter around their waist until it was time to cut it and put on a bigger one. These chains are believed to help young girls get a smaller waist and thus have a more feminine figure.

Waist Beads and Femininity

As a girl enters her young adult life, the meaning of this chain of beads changes from a practical object to a more private and sacred ornement. The beautiful string of colours sitting on her curvy and beautiful waist and hips embodies her growing femininity and makes her more aware of her womanhood. Waist beads not only help you be more feminine but also more sensual.

The colours put on waist beads are thoughtfully chosen. Every colours have meanings that can vary from one country to the other. Generally speaking, pink is for love and beauty, gold is for power and wealth, blue is for loyalty and truth and red for confidence and vitality. These are some examples, but there is an infinity of colours.

Fun Fact!

Waist beads can be used as a weight loss tool. They can serve as excellent weight trackers. If over time the chain becomes tighter on you it means that weight is being gained. But if the waist beads becomes looser, you are loosing weight.