Understanding The Maasai People
Who Are The Maasai people?
People across the globe are fascinated by the Maasai people. The Maasai are an ethnic group found in East Africa, specifically in Kenya and Tanzania. They are known internationally for their unique customs and dress-code. They like to reside in undeveloped savannah lands where they graze their cows on virgin lands. This is why you find them near game parks and great African lakes where the land is as natural as it comes.
The Maasai Dress-Code
Most Maasai people wear a special combination of garments and accessories. The men wear a shuka which is a type of blanket draped over their undergarments and held together with a belt. The women wear Lesos which are a type of cape also draped over their undergarments. They accessorize these with a variety of brightly colored necklaces, earrings, bracelets, sandals, belts, and anklets made with leather, strings, and colorful beads. The main Maasai colors are mostly red and blue, but they have other colors to complement these.
Understanding The Maasai Colors
Different colors represent different special meanings in the Maasai culture. Red which is an important color represents Blood and bravery. Black is a symbol of brotherhood, unity, and identity as a people. White represents peace and purity. Blue is the color of the sky representing coolness and calmness. Yellow is the color of the sun and it represents energy, growth, and fertility. Orange is the color of warmth representing friendship and generosity. Green is the color of the earth representing home, productivity, and nourishment.
The Beadwork Has Meaning Too
Modern fashion has borrowed heavily from the Maasai beadwork. Traditionally, different ornaments mean different things. Unmarried girls for example wear flat beaded necklaces that look like enormous disks around their necks. Once they marry, they wear a long necklace with pre-dominantly blue beads. The men wear colorful necklaces with interesting pendants. When the young men graduate to Morans (warriors) they wear a special cross body necklace. Men and women also wear headbands, anklets, bracelets, and earrings to their preference. All these are hand-made with beads, wire, leather, and strings. They take pride in this art of beadwork which is passed down from generation to generation.
The Modern Adaptation Of The Maasai Accessories
The Maasai have maintained their way of life and dress-code for thousands of years. Modern fashion icons such as Louis Vuitton, Naomi Campbell, Mafikizolo, victoria’s Secret, and others have borrowed some ideas from the Maasai people. Today people use the Maasai shuka to make clothes or even interior décor pieces. Today, Maasai accessories are popular worldwide. They are particularly savvy because they are made with natural and eco-friendly materials.
We Have Some In Stock!!!
If you have been wondering how to get some of these Maasai goodies, worry no more!! We have a variety of Maasai accessories sourced from Kenya. We collaborate with artisans in Kenya where we buy their products. When we sell them here in the USA, we give back to the Maasai community. We will talk more about that on our next blog. If you have any questions, we are glad to answer them. Happy shopping!!
Author: Wambui Catherine