The wearing of various colored bandanas around the neck was common in the mid- and late-nineteenth century among cowboys, steam railroad engineers, and miners in the Western United States. Other objects such as keys, key chains, watch fobs, or even handcuffs can also be used to let people know if you’re a “top” or “bottom.” If worn in the back on the center belt loop, it translates as “versatile.” Hankies can also be worn around the wrist, ankle, or leg (at the thigh, above the knee), or around the neck with the tie going either right or left. Although not as widely used these days, it is still a worthwhile resource and is, among those who know, a great conversation starter. Gay men used this code to communicate with each other in the noisy and distracting environment of gay bars.
The Hanky Code is a traditional form of signaling to others what your sexual preferences and interests are.
