Hanky Code

The hanky code, also called the handkerchief code, bandana code, or flagging, is a way of non-verbally signaling sexual interests using colored cloth. It became widespread among gay and bisexual men, leather communities, and kink circles in the 1970s, though the practice of signaling with bandanas traces back further. The color of the handkerchief names the activity or fetish, and the side it is worn on names the wearer's preferred role: left pocket for a top, dominant, or active partner, and right pocket for a bottom, submissive, or receptive one. For example, navy blue signals anal sex. Once a discreet code, flagging is now recognized as a piece of LGBTQ+ cultural history.