The Secret of the Caribbean Head Tie

Head Ties are a part of the native attire of most Caribbean Islands including the Virgin Islands.  Fancy Head Ties were worn many years ago to adorn and complement the ladies outfits which were worn to go to a Quadrille dance or the Sunday Market.   The secret of the  head ties is that they carry a message  by the number of points on the head ties. The head ties (not head wraps) were worn  to indicate the availability of a lady.  The following pictures  explains this information.  .

 

 

 

One Point says,

     "I am Free."

 

Today when a lady is in the native attire a message may still be sent by the points on her head tie. The Head Tie is usually made with Madras (plaid) material from India  that is 100% cotton. The size of the material for the head tie is usually 36 inches by 36 inches. It is starched before it is tied on the head so that the points can be stiff to stand up or out. The Head Tie is usually worn with a matching dress of the same madras material or with a white peasant blouse and the skirt matching the head tie. The design of the outfit was or can be simple to wear daily or elegantly designed to wear to a Ball.

 

Two Points says,

 "I'm engaged but, you can still try."

 

Three Points says,

     "I’m already taken.” 

 

 
 

 

Four Points says

“I am available.”

While your are here check out information about the present West Indian Woman that may be available by clicking PBWIW.

 

 
 

Photographs are copyright © 2008 Homeland Collections All Rights Reserved. No duplication or reproduction of any kind without permission from  Denise Bennerson, Ph.D. Homeland Collections

Copyright © 2008 Homeland Collections
Last modified: October 12, 2008