Waist beads are strings of beads worn around the waist or stomach. They are also known as “Jigida,” “Lagidigba,” “Ileke,” and other native names according to the different ethnic groups in Nigeria. They are vital accessories worn by different African cultures. They are mostly worn by women, although men are beginning to wear them, too, at the moment. In the past, before colonialism, they were a vital part of everyday fashion among women. Now, they seem like luxury accessories worn by a select few in Nigeria.
Waist beads are worn for various reasons. They are beautiful. They are exquisite. Waist beads denote a connection to one’s spiritual self sometimes. The most common reason people wear waist beads is for their beauty and exotic nature.
During and after colonialism, waist beads were nearly forgotten. In the past, waist beads went well and were seen with traditional dressing. However, waist beads are regaining their importance and popularity among Nigerians and Africans. It does not only beautify the body of the wearer, but it also serves as a means of self-realisation and self-admiration.
There are several types of waist beads, and they are often made from different materials. Sometimes, it can be confusing for a person to choose which one to wear and how to wear it. What are the materials that are usually used to make waist beads?
What are waist beads made from?
Gemstones, glass, nuts, or metals are used to make waist beads. These materials are cut and shapely properly into tiny pieces. These pieces are cut through to create tiny holes in their middle, and it is through these holes that strings and ropes are passed through to link the tiny pieces together.
The waist beads in Nigeria are usually made from glass, crystal, and wood beads.
There are various reasons why people choose to wear waist beads, and some of the reasons have been listed earlier.
Why do people wear waist beads?
1. Waist beads beautify the body. It gives an added beauty to the structure of the human body.
2. It connects a person to his spiritual side and leads to full self-realisation.
3. Waist beads can be used by a person to monitor his or her weight.
4. They showcase a person’s origin.
5. Waist beads are used as some form of spiritual protection by African traditionalists.
Next, we’ll go down to how to choose the best waist beads for your body and style. What are the factors you need to consider when choosing the waist beads that would suit your body?
How to Choose the Perfect Waist Beads for Your Body and Style
1. Material of the Waist Beads
The first factor to consider before choosing waist beads is the material it is made from. The material used in the construction of waist beads usually determines the cost. This is the reason why some waist beads are more exquisite and costly than others. In addition to that, some waist beads are more durable than others.
If you want exquisite and durable waist beads, you will have to have a higher budget for them. Waist beads made from gemstones will cost more than ones made with wood. The ones made with crystal will cost more than the ones made with wood. However, gemstones and crystals are more durable and finer.
Furthermore, the waist beads tied together with strong threads are more durable than the ones with elastic thread. You just have to know your budget and needs.
2. Body Size
You have to check your body size before you set out to buy waist beads. To be more accurate and not make mistakes, you can measure yourself with tape before leaving the house to purchase them. Either you buy the elastic ones or the ones with regular threads. Regular threads tend to last longer than elastic ones but you can easily outgrow them.
Your best bet is to check your body size before leaving to get the waist beads.
3. ColourÂ
There are different varieties of colours of waist beads in the market. You can choose colours based on your complexion, your preference, and also the spirituality connected to these colours. For instance, a fair-complexioned person will go well with brown waist beads or black, while a dark-complexioned person will go well with white or gold.
@honestlyjordyn These are adjustable waist beads. You can adjust them whenever you want to! #beadedjewelry #beadedjewelry #bellybeads #bellychain ♬ original sound – JordoLux
There are also deeper or spiritual significances to these colours. These significances are:Â
White: Purity, Truth, and Light
Black: Uniqueness, Boldness, and Elegance
Yellow: Beauty, Attractiveness, and Boisterousness
Blue: Calmness, Maturity, and Growth
Red: Courage and Confidence
Brown: Balance, Conservative, and Stability
Orange: Uniqueness and Vitality
Pink: Innocence, Beauty, and Joy
Purple: Freedom, Liberalism, and Growth
Gold: Wealth, Power, and Elitism
Green: Life, Survival, and Growth
Conclusion
Your choice of waist beads depends on your budget, complexion, body size, and preference as well. You should consider all these as you set out to buy waist beads. If you have a good budget, go for the finest and more durable waist beads than the regular ones. While making that decision, ensure you check your body weight and how the colours of the beads suit your skin.
