Purple, Blue & Orange Multicolored Strand

Traditionally waist beads are worn along the hips semi-permanently, which means they are worn while bathing, sleeping, swimming, etc. until they break or they are cut off. To tie them on, you simply place them around your waist, decide where you want them to sit, remove the excess beads and tie 3-4 knots. Once you are sure the beads are secure, cut off the excess string and beads. Be sure not to tie them too tight or else they will break! Leave enough room for sitting, bending and bloating.

You do not need to select a size for our traditional tie-on beads. Our regular size tie-on waist beads are 55 inches long and fits up to size 18. You will fit them to your waist when they arrive. If you require longer, shop our extended length 60 inch beads. You do not need clasps for our traditional beads, you simply tie them on.

You can choose to wear your beads on your waist line, high hip or low hip depending on your personal preference. Make sure to leave some wiggle room when tying your beads, or ordering the ones with clasps.

Waist beads are an African tradition that can be found all across the continent and throughout the diaspora. They have been used in various ways and have taken on a multitude of meanings including body shaping and awareness, lingerie/sensual adornment, coming of age initiations, wedding gifts/bride price, to indicate societal status, and to connect with your feminine essence.

Waist beads are designed to be worn on your waist, on your hip or on your panty line. They are comfortable enough to be worn for long periods of time, even permanently; you might even forget that you’re wearing them! Some women wear their waist beads over their clothing, or with a crop top or swimsuit, while others choose to wear them under. If you choose to wear your waist beads under your clothing, do not worry as they are created to withstand the friction created by your clothing and still remain comfortable.

Black - Protection, Power & Strength

White - Purity, Healing, New Beginnings

Brown - Earth, Healing, & Security

Blue - Peace Harmony, & Patience

Turquoise - Spiritual Connection, Healing, Success

Green - Growth, Abundance, Renewal, Fertility

Yellow - Happiness, Warmth, Energy

Orange - Creativity, Vibrance, & Confidence

Red - Passion, Sexuality, Energy

Pink - Femininity, Beauty, Love, Kindness

Purple - Royalty, Healing, Purification

Gold - Wealth, Royalty, Abundance

Silver/Grey - Serenity, Purity, Wisdom, & Reflection