FAQ

1. What are waist beads?

Waist beads are traditional body jewellery made from small glass beads on string or wire, worn around the waist or hips. They originate from various African cultures and are often used to symbolise femininity, sensuality, fertility, spirituality, healing, and rites of passage. At Femme Waist Beads, each strand is handcrafted with love, intention, and meaning.

2. What do waist beads symbolise?

Waist beads can represent a range of things depending on personal or cultural significance. Common meanings include:

  • Feminine energy and empowerment
  • Body awareness and self-love
  • Weight management (they tighten or loosen with body fluctuations)
  • Spiritual protection
  • Sexuality and sensuality
  • Milestones such as marriage, fertility, or healing

3. How do I choose the right waist beads for me?

Consider your intention first. Are you choosing waist beads for:

  • Healing and energy (choose by crystal/colour)
  • Body confidence (look for comfort and flexibility)
  • Seduction and sensuality (opt for layered styles)
  • Tradition and culture 

You can also browse by:

  • Colour meaning (e.g. red for passion, blue for calm, gold for abundance)
  • Material type (glass beads, crystals, charms)
  • Fastening style (tie-on vs clasped)

4. What is the difference between tie-on and clasp waist beads?

  • Tie-on waist beads are traditional and permanent until cut off. You tie them to your body once, and they stay on through showering, sleeping, and daily life.
  • Clasp waist beads work like a necklace or bracelet with a clasp, allowing you to remove and re-wear them.

At Femme Waist Beads, we offer both styles depending on your lifestyle and preference.

5. How do I measure myself for waist beads?

To get the perfect fit:

  1. Use a flexible measuring tape.
  2. Measure around your stomach, hips, or wherever you’d like the beads to sit.
  3. Ensure the tape sits snug but not tight, while you’re in a relaxed, standing position.
  4. Do not suck in your stomach while measuring.
  5. Record the measurement in inches or centimetres, depending on the listing.

Tip: For tie-on beads, a few extra inches will be included to allow you to knot and trim.

6. Can I wear waist beads all the time?

Yes! Our tie-on waist beads are designed for everyday wear. You can:

  • Shower with them
  • Sleep with them
  • Swim with them (chlorine may fade colour over time)
  • Exercise with them

Just avoid excessive tugging or friction to prolong their lifespan.

7. Can waist beads help with weight loss or body awareness?

Absolutely. Waist beads naturally promote body awareness. As your body changes, you’ll notice the beads move higher or lower on your waist.
They’re perfect for tracking:

  • Bloating
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Monthly cycles
  • Pregnancy progression

They do not directly cause weight loss, but they’re a great non-scale tool for your wellness journey.

8. Are waist beads safe during pregnancy?

Yes – many women wear waist beads throughout pregnancy to mark each trimester, connect with their bump, and celebrate their changing bodies.
For safety:

  • Opt for stretchy or clasped waist beads to allow flexibility
  • Or wear tie-on beads loosely under your bump

Always listen to your body, and if anything feels too tight, remove the beads.

9. Can I wear waist beads if I’m not African or Black?

Waist beads are part of African heritage, but they have become a global symbol of femininity, wellness, and energy.
Anyone can wear them respectfully, especially when:

  • You purchase from African or Black-owned businesses (like Femme Waist Beads)
  • You acknowledge and honour the cultural roots
  • You use them with intention, not appropriation

10. Can I wear waist beads to the gym or while sleeping?

Yes! Our waist beads are durable enough for active lifestyles. Whether you’re:

  • At the gym
  • On the treadmill
  • Practising yoga
  • Or sleeping through the night

You can wear them with comfort. Tie-on beads become a second skin. If you're concerned about damage, clasped styles offer easy removal.

11. Do waist beads have spiritual meanings?

Definitely. Many women wear waist beads for:

  • Energy protection
  • Root and sacral chakra alignment
  • Fertility intentions
  • Emotional healing

You can choose crystal waist beads (like amethyst, rose quartz or obsidian) to support your personal growth and spiritual wellness.

12. How do I care for my waist beads?

To maintain the quality of your waist beads:

  • Avoid harsh soaps and chemicals
  • Pat dry after swimming
  • Store clasped beads flat or hanging
  • Avoid over-stretching elastic styles
  • Trim any excess string neatly (for tie-on styles)

We use high-quality glass beads, charms, and durable thread, but proper care extends their beauty and energy.

13. Do waist beads stretch over time?

Our tie-on beads do not stretch, which is why they’re excellent for tracking body changes.
Clasped or elastic styles may loosen slightly over time depending on use. We recommend gentle wear and regular checks to keep them secure.

14. How long do waist beads last?

With proper care, waist beads can last months to years. Tie-on beads are meant for long-term wear, and many women keep them on for years unless cut off.
Clasped styles may need restringing over time, especially with frequent removal.

15. Do you ship internationally?

Yes, Femme Waist Beads is based in the UK, and we ship worldwide!

  • UK Standard & Express Delivery available
  • International Shipping to the US, EU, and more
  • Tracking provided on selected services

16. Can I customise my waist beads?

Absolutely! We offer custom waist beads tailored to:

  • Your waist size
  • Favourite colours
  • Personal intentions (healing, sensuality, abundance)
  • Crystals, charms, or names

Message us directly to request your custom design.

17. Do you offer wholesale or bulk orders?

Yes! Whether you’re a boutique owner, wellness coach, or want to gift waist beads to a group of women, we offer wholesale pricing on bulk orders.
Get in touch for minimum quantities and turnaround time.

18. I tied my waist beads too tight. What should I do?

If your beads feel uncomfortable or are digging in:

  • Carefully cut and remove them
  • Re-measure and order a new strand
  • Or contact us – we may be able to help remake them for a small fee

19. I still have questions – how can I contact you?

We’d love to hear from you! For questions about sizing, custom orders, shipping or your journey with waist beads, reach out:

Femme Waist Beads is more than jewellery – it’s a journey. Whether you’re rediscovering your body, reclaiming your power, or simply adorning yourself in beauty, we’re here for it.