Yellow Hanky

The yellow hanky is part of the handkerchief code, a color-coded system of bandanas or handkerchiefs that gay men, especially in leather and cruising scenes, used to signal sexual interests without speaking. In this system yellow flags an interest in watersports, meaning urine play. Placement carries its own meaning: worn in the left back pocket it typically indicates a top or more active role, and in the right pocket a bottom or more receptive role. The code took shape in gay communities in the 1970s and its details varied by city. It is used less often for everyday cruising now, but it remains a recognized piece of leather and kink heritage.