Author: Ciara Celeste | Reporter
It is the icon herself, Arai Kabadu, who adorns the stage with a nude-colored bodysuit, black head wraps and an exaggerated bottom area.
There was a mixed reaction in the audience. Some interpreted outfits as a playful jab in BBL culture, while others, like Tiktcar and fashion historian Shelby Ivy Christie, were bold statements that society was wrapping up the bodies of black women. Let’s analyze this.
On March 29th, Erykah Badu accepted the Icon Award at the Women’s Music Awards Ceremony. She wore a complex called “Thinking-stimulating Bodysuits,” created by designer Maia Husbany. The current “booty suit” has sparked widespread debate across social media. In context, BBL, or Brazilian butt lifts are cosmetic surgery procedures that reinforce the size and shape of the butt section.
But some spectators, especially in Tiktok, looked at something more deeply. Shelby Ivy Christie shared a fascinating piece of thought and suggested that Badu’s appearance was not mocking. It reflects the way society consistently scrutinizes and controls the emergence of black women.
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This issue is not new. It dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries, along with the tragic story of Sarah Bertman, a South African woman who was publicly exhibited and exploited in Europe for a natural, large bottom. After her death, her body remained on display until 2002 when she was finally returned to her hometown.
Shelby also referred to the Tignon Act, enacted by the governor of New Orleans in 1786. The law aimed to suppress self-expression and control the visibility of black beauty, as natural hair was considered “too attractive” or threatening. But even under these restrictions, black women have found ways to regain their dignity. He decorated Tinon with vibrant patterns and cultural pride.
Fast forward to today and the story continues.
In 2018, Serena Williams spoke about how her curvy, powerful physique was policed on the tennis court. She began designing custom bodies and athletic gear to support her form.
And then there’s Megan Trion. The violence she endured was publicly disregarded by many.
Yes, Badu’s outfit may have been a nod to BBL culture. But a bigger picture? It is a mirror that reflects the ongoing pressure for black women to adapt, distort and hide their bodies. The same traits we born into (our lips, hips, hair, nails) are considered to us as “ghettos”, but others are “edgy” or “fashion forward.”
Black women are not a trend. We are the blueprints.
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And the sooner society accepts the truth, the better.
