Gay neckerchief

Some may think that the gay community’s obsession with finding out the sexual proclivities of a potential partner is a trend of today. But questions like “into” and “looking for” have been around a lot longer than the dating apps we use today to ask them. Here, we take a look at the tools gay men have historically used to determine who is into what. The Hanky Code The handkerchief.

The hanky code, also called the handkerchief code or flagging, is a subtle signaling system in the gay community with origins that are both practical and creative. Back in the midth century American West, bandanas were a common part of life for cowboys, miners, and railroad workers—they were mainly used for practical reasons.

Ever heard of the "Hanky Code?" Queer artist and activist Andy Simmonds' illustrations take us behind its sexy, and colorful, history!.

Consider: you could change people's opinions of the neckerchief forever if you wear it the right way. That is to say, if you wear it, and you rock it, and you're a stand up guy who people enjoy hanging out with.