If you’re a gay man then you may have already heard about the hanky code and it’s use in hooking up and gay cruising. If you’re not familiar with this colorful and sometimes complex way to communicate your tastes and hook up expectations, I’ll give you a quick re-cap before getting into the new and improved modern hanky code. Remember that this was a quick way to discretely share your sexuality and it pre-dated the internet
Hanky Code Origins – Don’t let history as great as this be lost!
The hanky code, short for handkerchief code (also known as bandana code or flagging) was a way for gay men to define roles and interests in other males in the late nineteenth century. Historical rumor says that it emerged in San Francisco after the Gold Rush when women weren’t around and men needed to determine whether they would lead or follow at square dances when dancing with other men. What we recognize as a Modern Hanky Code is thought to have developed in New York during the early 70’s.
The hanky code is essentially a way to communicate your interests depending on the color of the bandana and the place at which you wear the bandana. For example: wearing a hanky on your left side meant that you were a “top”. You would typically wear the hanky sticking out from the back pocket of your jeans. Depending on the region the colors for hanky codes changed slightly but an example of the most popular would be the red handkerchief which means you’re into fisting. Want to learn more about the accepted Hanky Code and what all the colors mean?
Click Here For Hanky Code Details.
New Fun Twist to the Hanky Code Tradition
Now that you get an idea of what the handkerchief code is we’re telling you that we are here to bring it back. Now there’s no question about which color to wear, but recently staffers at advocate.com decided to have a little fun with the Hanky Code concept. Not only is this a blast from the past but in today’s world these colors may say something very different. The folks at Advocate Health present a different and cheeky take! Enjoy!
White: The Narcissist, this is your gay male pillow princess. He’s cocky but not in a way to please you. He wants it to be all about himself and if you love giving pleasure he’ll love you. Wear this if you’re looking for some selfish love.
Dark Blue: Viagra King, he has a permanent hard on but it’s not because of you. He’ll be able to keep that loving going but he might be older or scared to be caught having sex with a man.
Off White: Off Key, just kidding but these are your fantastic, bubbly Broadway gays. They’ll sit you down to watch RENT and then serenade you before seducing you and getting it on.
Light Blue: Daddy blue, married with children and even possibly a straight wife but wants to get some action in.
Red: Plastic surgery gay. These are the guys who know what’s up with all the fillers and teeth whiteners. They’re perfect and groomed and probably wearing Ralph Lauren.
Beige: Rebound, this gay just got out of a relationship and as we know gay circles can be tight so if you haven’t already been with him now is probably a great time… unless you’re looking for something more serious.
Black: Online romance, this is the guy who will text you and make you smile but it’s never going to anywhere. Keep your dating in Secondlife and for Skype chats.
Silver: Bisexual, now don’t get all judgmental here. There is nothing wrong or slutty about being bisexual. If you think they’re cute give them a chance.
Do you have any ideas of your own? Has our modern world demanded an update to the Hanky Code? Tweet us and remember to follow @AllMaleDating
