FAQ

What is the meaning,purpose,and/or significant of waist beads?"

Briefly the art of adorning oneself with waist beads is an age old African tradition dating back to the 15th century. Some believe that the practice started in Ancient Egypt others believe it started in West Africa. Different regions in Africa wear waist beads for various reasons during different stages in ones life. The reasons range from femininity, sensuality, fertility, weight management/ body shaping, status symbol, healing, protection, rights of passage, intimacy/ seduction, etc.
Why do women wear waist beads today?

In today's modern times women wear waist beads for a lot of the traditional reasons stated above especially femininity, healing, protection, weight management, and sensuality. Some women wear them solely for decorative adornment purposes. Others wear them because they are a confidence booster, they love the way they look and how wearing waist beads makes them feel. Traditionally waist beads were worn under clothing hidden from site only for a woman's husband to see. Now some women choose to show them on the bare stomach, and others wear them over clothing.
How do I measure myself for waist beads?

Use a tape measure to measure the spot in inches you would like your waist beads to lay between your waist and high hip. See How to measure diagram.
Can I wear waist beads while pregnant/ how do I measure while pregnant ?

Yes. When measuring for waist beads while pregnant you can either measure below your baby bump, across your navel, or slightly above the navel. It is a personal preference, if you measure your across your baby bump (navel) or above as your belly grows your waist beads will slide up higher little by little.
Can babies, toddlers, and young girls wear waist beads?"

YES
How do I properly care for my waist beads?

See care instructions
Can I bathe in my waist beads?

Yes you can bathe in the traditional African waist beads.
Where does this store ship from?

Raleigh , North Carolina
Can I take my Waist Beads off once tied?

If you tie them around your stomach, No. Traditionally waist beads are worn along the panty line and not tight around the waist. This allows the beads to be pulled up and off similar to a t-shirt.
I need a longer size for my waist beads:

All of our beads come 50 inches long, If you need longer Send a message to us and we’ll make whatever length you need and create a custom listing just for you. Custom orders vary in price and may take up to 2 weeks to process.