Can anyone wear waist beads?

Yes, anyone can wear waist beads regardless of background, gender, or body type. While they originate from African traditions, waist beads have become globally embraced as symbols of beauty, identity, and empowerment. What’s important is wearing them with respect and awareness of their cultural significance.

Wearing waist beads with intention — whether for fashion, spiritual practice, or personal growth — is a form of honoring yourself and, when done mindfully, honoring the culture they come from. Supporting Black-owned artisans and learning the traditions behind them is one way to do that.