Language

The Lexicon

The Lexicon preserves the language of the Lifestyle — its words, concepts and traditions. It records meaning; it never prescribes practice. Where usage varies between Houses or lineages, each is set down with equal respect.

Community

Hanky Code

also known as Handkerchief code

A conventional system for signalling interests and roles by coloured handkerchiefs.

Definition

The hanky code is a conventional system, largely originating in mid-twentieth-century gay Leather communities, in which colour and placement of a worn handkerchief signal specific interests, roles or availability.

Discussion

The code has expanded, contracted and been reinterpreted across time and place; no single canonical list is universally recognised, though the framework is broadly understood.

See also