Belly Rings: Sexy is as Sexy Does
Body piercings have been the object of much controversy --
besides being an artistic expression and a celebration of one's
physical endowments. The belly ring is such a piece of jewelry.
In times of old, body piercings were treated differently,
depending on the culture. As most body piercings had ritual or
ceremonial value, many cultures prohibited specific types of
body piercing that were purely for the sake of adornment. The
warriors of old Central and South American civilizations sported
body piercings, specifically in the nose area, in order to
appear more intimidating to their enemies. On the other hand,
lip piercings and decorations were meant to enhance
attractiveness, especially among women of the day and age.
And while body piercings were more or less common in ancient
Egypt, the ancient Egyptian pharaohs actually appropriated
specific types of piercings. For example, no one BUT members of
the royal family should wear a belly ring, on pain of death!
Talk about the price of vanity.
Nowadays there is still some stigma associated with body
piercings, especially among young women. It may be true that
piercing is not always a safe practice, but more and more tattoo
parlors are adopting measures that will ensure that infection is
at least avoided. The increasing popularity of body jewelry
cannot be ignored, especially since things like the belly ring
and lip ring are making their way to MTV!
Yes, we're talking about Britney Spears and her belly rings.
We're talking about the famous "stars and moon" dangling belly
ring she wore to the MTV music awards last year. We're also
talking about Christina Aguilera and her "Nirvana nipple ring,"
among lots of other unconventional accessories -- made slightly
less unconventional by their appearance on international TV.
Belly rings are popular among young people who like to get
together and dance. Dancers on TV are popularizing it as a sexy
accessory. There are no pharaohs nowadays who would want to lop
off Britney Spears' head for donning this spectacularly alluring
piece of jewelry. From a status symbol to a sexy fashion
accessory, the belly ring sure has come a long way.