Is carabiner code only for lesbians. A secret code or dog whistle if you will.

Is carabiner code only for lesbians Useful for both climbing Everest and signalling your identity as a queer woman. But what is the ‘carabiner code’ and what’s the history behind this sapphic symbol? Let’s get into it. Hi! My carabiner is pretty basic, and while I like it, I’m looking for more/other options. Dec 20, 2024 · In this sense, the carabiner was the lesbian version of the hanky code, a system where gay men would communicate their sexual preferences by wearing a coloured bandana in the left or right back pocket. But what is the ‘carabiner code’ and what’s the history behind this sapphic symbol? Why are carabiners the unofficial accessory of every sapphic night out? Today, for many queer women, wearing a carabiner isn't just about holding keys - it's a nod to history, a statement of identity, and a way to connect with others in the know. (Getty) What does the violet symbolise in lesbianism? Violets have long been a symbol of sapphic love and their purple colour has become a subtle code to indicate queerness. Ngl, I've never even heard of that. TikTok video from Openly | LGBTQ+ news (@openlynews): "The carabiner has been a signal for WLW for decades - and it’s more similar to the hanky code than you might think 👀 #tiktokunpacks #lesbianhistory #lgbtqhistory #wlw #HavaianasLivreDeCliches". Archived post. May 30, 2024 · The hottest accessory for lesbians is the trusty carabiner, a functional yet fashionable outfit edition. Clipping a carabiner to your belt or bag can indicate you're part of the queer community, and, like the key code, side placement matters—left for more dominant or top, right for more submissive or bottom. One popular theory states that hanky flagging started during the Gold Rush in nineteenth-century San Francisco. The Hanky Code emerged in the USA in the 1970’s (some say New York on the East coast, some say San Francisco on the West coast) as a way to signal (using back pockets) to others in the Queer community just what exactly you’re into. Dec 5, 2024 · Carabiners might be having a “moment” in the fashion world, but as LGBTQ+ people (especially lesbians) know, the tool has long been a staple of queer style. There are certain fashion statements that people in the LGBTQ+ community have become associated with, and now use to identify one another. Left hip = top, Right hip Jun 1, 2025 · The free shipping option is First Class mail with a loosely tracked stamp. How did you find us? We describe ourselves as a gender-free company, and we know that, as shirt lovers, you're seeking button-up shirt styles that are classic, gender-neutral, androgynous, non-binary, and tomboy. Plus, learn why the position of a carabiner can also symbolise sexual preference within the community. S. But what is the ‘carabiner code’ and what’s the history behind this sapphic symbol?. A secret code or dog whistle if you will. PaprikaShopRU on Etsy JessicaElizabethCo on Etsy CopperBoomCraftShop on Etsy Beyond flag imagery and colors, other modern-day symbols in fashion that indicate queerness to other WLW include flannels, eyebrow slits, patterned shirts, rings and carabiners. 🎥 ‘History of the Carabiner’, the latest WaterBear documentary, made in There’s an assumption, in the online spaces frequented by young lesbians, that lesbian history is clear-cut. An iconic accessory for lesbians and queers all around. Aug 11, 2025 · But what is the carabiner code and what’s the history behind this sapphic symbol? A carabiner is a small metal clip, usually made of aluminium or steel, with a spring-loaded gate, and is commonly used in activities such as rock climbing. It is pretty much a queer “secret code,” only able to be deciphered by other queer people who know Dec 21, 2016 · The semiotics of the carabiner have largely been divorced from sex for today’s lesbian, but key clips are still reliable identity flagging implements. Feb 14, 2018 · Baby queers searching the internet for ways to find their people and send out lesbian vibes will learn that “the universal key chain signal for lesbians is the carabiner clip” and even straight people know it. Butches and femmes always knew how to dress, fluently speaking the language of lesbian sartorial communication. Nov 22, 2021 · The lesbian flag has been used in many fashion pieces, some of which are pictured below. Two feats that can, at times, feel equally challengin­g. Once upon a time, the story goes, lesbians would meet in bars and dance, drink, and fall in love. Jan 15, 2024 · Keywords: carabiner flagging, caribiner flagging, rogue lesbian, lesbian flagging carabiner, carabiners lesbians, carabiner lgbt, carabiner code, tiktok carabiner, lesbian carabiners, carabiner emoji, flagging, carabiner meaning, carabiner keychain wlw, gay carabiner, hanky, carabiner wlw meaning, carabin code, calliber meaning, carabiner lesbian, carabiners and docks, can i wear a carabiner The only keys I have are for my front door and mh car, but I also have a three-compartment pill capsule that has meds in two compartments and Aquaphor in the top, because I can't stand having dry skin or lips. Though the importance of carabiners in lesbian Feb 8, 2022 · For Lesbians, signals have historically been incorporated into their fashion, some developing into a niche of their own (i. Perfect her and hers pride month apparel or lesbian wedding or engagement celebration! Celebrate pride with the perfect gay camping accessories for women adventurers with a red carabiner A safe space for GSRM (Gender, Sexual, and Romantic Minority) folk to discuss their lives, issues, interests, and passions. Code, Lesbians, Carabiner And More Check out our lesbian carabiner selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our keychains shops. ️ #wlw #wuhluhwuh #tomboystyle”. 2K Likes, 745 Comments. By simply sneaking a glance at the booty, anyone who knows what’s up can either give you a knowing nod, a tight lipped smile, or come over and ask to buy you Yeah carabiner coding is cool BUT… P. i'm not lesbian and want to start using a carabiner so i'm curious on what the discourse is regarding them. Find your thing. Since then, the hanky code in its original form has greater evolved into new forms amongst the women loving women community; taking form in nail designs. Jun 21, 2024 · These days, the global lesbian community is able to unite over social media. Check out our lesbian carabiners selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our keychains shops. So naturally I had to further claim them by engraving carabiners with these 5 silly queer phrases. An enduring symbol of queer aesthetic. Learn how this simple item represents strength, resilience, and identity today. If you’re reading this and thinking “What!? My carabiner is gay!? Since when!?” Congratulations, you may have just found out that you’ve i'm curious about why carabiners are so important to lesbians and what your thoughts are on people who are not lesbians wearing them. Oct 6, 2022 · 63. So, flagging is a way of telling other lgbtq people your gay without telling them. These codes are shaped by history, culture and a need for safety, and they take on unique forms in everything from fashion to film Check out our carabiner for lesbian selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our keychains shops. The history of carabiners as lesbian signals | Source: Slate | Source: Clio, 2013 | The history of carabiners as Check out our carabiner lesbian selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our keychains shops. Dec 30, 2024 · Not only are butch lesbians choosing to wear these more masculine pieces, but femme lesbians are also using these as ways to flag. Queer coding refers to the subtle, often non-verbal ways LGBTQ+ individuals express or signify their identity, both to each other and to a wider audience. #TheGiver #ChappellRoan #pride #wlw #carabiner Keywords: carabiner wlw culture, construction helmet pride, no discourse carabiner, pride symbols for lesbians, wlw carabiner usage, carabiner code for pride, embracing wlw identities, creative uses of carabiners, LGBTQ+ construction themes May 14, 2021 · Tag Archives: carabiners Lez Accessorise: Carabiners and Rings as Lesbian Signals “What does a lesbian look like?” feels like an age-old question – or, to be more realistic, a decades-old question. Like even the carabiner trend for lesbians came from butches who worked in the trades, so the fact that some lesbians talk about them like they were some quirky little accessory that we invented can get kind of annoying if you have just always been around them. Jun 30, 2023 · Ah, the sturdy carabiner clip. Having a carabiner hanging from your belt loops is very lesbian culture to me and other Sapphics I know, but never have I heard of or even considered it to be put together with a kink scene, maybe with the trecking/hiking/outdoorsy type lesbians, but yeah certainly none of any kinky fashion. In some lesbian circles, carabiners have worked like a hanky code - where placement matters. I think the most interesting one I've heard recently was from a heavy equipment operator, she had the keys to a bulldozer a backhoe and a 300 foot tower crane. wikihow. Lavender. Carabiners are used by climbers as they move, the metal loop with a spring-loaded clip is often used to make quick connections to ropes Nov 18, 2022 · These simple metal clips have long been a coded signal for WLW (women-loving-women: an umbrella term that encompasses lesbian, bi and queer women). A carabiner is a small metal clip Apr 10, 2009 · Accessories may include: Nalgene bottles; carabiners; keys at your belt; fanny packs; femme lesbians who only dress girly for the attention or to get a real man. While rings are often associated with traditional notions of love and commitment, their placement on the thumb became a historical act of rebellion for women. This carabiner lesbian aesthetic design for anyone who loves using carabiners features a interlocking carabiner design and reads Together Forever And Proud. While many lesbians tend to opt for bulky, bohemian, or grungy style rings, having more than a few rings of any style will definitely help signify queer identity. Though the importance of carabiners in lesbian Le Monocle was a lesbian club in Paris that was open from the 1920s to the 1930s, prior to the invasion of Nazi Germany. Jun 26, 2025 · Why are carabiners the unofficial accessory for every lesbian night out – and what is their meaning for LGBT people? Today, for many queer women, wearing a carabiner isn’t just about holding keys: it’s a nod to history, a statement of identity and a way to connect with others in the know. Versatile, stylish, and available at various price points, these everyday essentials make the perfect Valentine’s Day gift. Jun 2, 2023 · The hanky code wasn’t only popular among queer men, as mentions of it were found in the very first issue of the lesbian erotic magazine On Our Backs, published in 1984. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. What do these all have in common? They are all used for flagging: the use of symbols, colors, clothing, and more to symbolize one’s LGBTQ+ identity or sexual preferences. In recent years, the carabiner has become a more mainstream fashion accessory. There's no sides either. Clipped on the left, they can signal someone being a “bottom”; on the right, a May 5, 2025 · “The only thing I want to make clear is this is not me saying that every lesbian wears a carabiner,” Stewart said about their ongoing project, Carabiner. Wearing a carabiner on your right side indicates that you're a bottom. The lesbian love of key rings and carabiners, explained. In no way am I saying this is what a lesbian looks Apr 27, 2025 · Discover the fascinating history behind carabiners as a symbol in lesbian culture, tracing its roots to WWII and the use of keys. Daniella Parete Clarke rounds up Sextras’ top 12 favourite carabiners, blending fashion and function for a queer-friendly celebration. But how relevant is it today? (ABC: Rachel Rasker/Luke Tribe) May 30, 2023 · For lesbians and queer women in general, the “key code,” was prevalent. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Lesbians and wlw used carabiners as a type of flag code back the the old days to signal to other wlw. Wearing a carabiner on the left side indicates that you're a top. But remember that it’s quite a niche thing! #wlw #carabiner #lesbian #lgbt #lgbtqia #bi #04 #chappellroan #mullethaircut #mullet #pinkhair #relationship starlightg3ms 430,014 giving the people what they want - the Check out our lesbians carabiner selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our keychains shops. While the color of your carabiner doesn’t mean anything, some lesbians use the position of their carabiner to indicate whether they’re a top or a bottom. Feb 9, 2025 · Carabiners aren’t just practical—they’re a powerful symbol in the queer community, worn by queer women to build community. As Cassie Doney wrote for Refinery29, the carabiner likely emerged as a lesbian signifier during World War II, when women were widely As women’s job opportunities expanded, the carabiner remained, becoming a quiet symbol of queer resilience, butch style, and community within the wider WLW world. Practical, understated, subtly provocative. And much like the hanky code, which hip you wear your carabiner on can indicate your sexual preference. Pretty much everyone I know, straight/gay/bi whatever has one. I heard through the grapevine (tiktok) that straight people are now wearing carabiners. Gay men also often flag with the carabiner, as well as wearing bracelets, jewelry (such as a ear piercings), and dressing in non-traditionally masculine ways. Jul 7, 2025 · In this decade, it seems lesbians have started to subscribe to the notion that the more lesbian rings, the better, no matter the finger, especially for the more femme-presenting lesbian. Monocles. In the 1980s, an iconic lesbian magazine On Our Backs adapted the hanky code for the lesbian lifestyle with a sale of handkerchiefs alongside the edition. Small carabiners are super lightweight, your keys will probably outweigh the carabiner itself. “This is just me honing in on one specific signifier, and this group of people choosing to decorate their body with a historic code. Check out our queer carabiner selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our keychains shops. Green carnations. Reply reply lykanprince • Oct 16, 2022 · These simple metal clips have long been a coded signal for WLW (women-loving-women: an umbrella term that encompasses lesbian, bi and queer women). Does anyone have recommendations for stores/vendors with cool carabiner/key ring options? Any style is fine, I’m just wanting to browse more options. Like the modern day equivalent of the 1970s ‘Hanky Code’ (which originated in San Francisco and was used between gay Lesbians, queer women and non-binary people love a carabiner, but do you know where the trend comes from? 🔗🌈 We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. "Boyfriend fit"? We dislike this term, as it implies, we're "borrowing" a menswear fit. Wearing one’s keys on a chain or carabiner was just another way of letting people know what you like. For those who weren’t aware, the carabiner has a deep-rooted history as a symbol of lesbian identity. Apr 23, 2025 · The carabiner code is often compared to the hanky code, in which gay men indicate their sexual preferences based on the position and color of their hanky. butch aesthetic). Whether the name was inspired by the attire of patrons wearing suits and monocles, or the style was inspired by the name, isn’t quite clear - but we know that the practice was referenced in Germany too. Mar 13, 2025 · Gay men have the hanky code, and lesbians have carabiners. But why do lesbians wear carabiners? Let’s dive right in. Learn about the carabiner code with this guide from wikiHow: https://www. Oct 27, 2021 · Graphic by Sarah Nash If you’re LGBTQ+, you’ve probably heard the stereotypes of bisexuals with cuffed jeans, lesbians with carabiners on their belt loops, and queer people sporting button up shirts. Apr 29, 2024 · A tongue-in-cheek, historical documentary / fashion film hybrid that takes viewers on a journey through queer history to trace the origins of the carabiner as a lesbian symbol. This is a fantasy, the bare bones of history polished into a shine by a Dec 2, 2024 · From green carnations to carabiners, the language of queer coding has spoken volumes in silence for decades. com/Carabiner-CodeFollow our social media channels to find more interesting, Mar 17, 2025 · Rings Beyond clothing, accessories also play a significant role in lesbian signalling. Lesbian fashion historian Eleanor Medhurst says: “Violets became a lesbian symbol because they appear multiple times across Sappho’s poetry, alongside declarations of love for women. “Queer women on TikTok are using the platform to find out about style codes—things like rings, carabiners—and Aug 18, 2023 · The carabiner was once a subtle signifier of someone’s sexuality — particularly among lesbian or bisexual women — but has now been spread amongst the masses. Carabiner code! • Millions of unique designs by independent artists. 1d Carabiner Code Lace Code Carabiner Lesbian Outfit Transmasc Lesbian Flag Lgbtq Fashion Queer Femme But what is the carabiner code and what’s the history behind this sapphic symbol? A carabiner is a small metal clip, usually made of aluminium or steel, with a spring-loaded gate, and is commonly used in activities such as rock climbing. Joking: the only "code" I know is that lesbians who rock climb will be slightly judgemental if your carabiner isn't rated for climbing! Why are carabiners the unofficial accessory for every lesbian night out – and what is their meaning for LGBT people? Today, for many queer women, wearing a carabiner isn’t just about holding What's on your carabiner? I always find it interesting what keys different lesbians have on their carabiner. Nov 27, 2023 · From carabiners to the hanky code, queer people have subtly flagged who they are for decades. Carabiner w keys and a lesbian flag on my belt loop is what I do! Left side for top right for bottom is the commonly accepted code The handkerchief code (also known as the hanky / hankie code, the bandana / bandanna code, and flagging) [1] is a system of color-coded cloth handkerchief or bandanas for non-verbally communicating one's interests in sexual activities and fetishes. On a lesbian woman, a carabineer clip indicates sapphic inclination, and in some instances, the placement indicates interest- ie left hip = submissive, right hip = dominant got that backwards. Check out our are carabiners for lesbians selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our stickers shops. I dont think there is a code, I thought it was just a stereotype that lesbians wear their carabiner keys on their pant loops. LGBT is still a popular term used to discuss gender and sexual minorities, but all GSRM are welcome beyond lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people who consent to participate in a safe space. Rings hold a special place in lesbian culture, and this signal too holds historical meaning. ” Explore the fun side of carabiners and pride with construction helmets! Join the discourse on wlw culture. Anyone can wear them it just won’t have the same meaning. Discover the queer history of the carabiner from a multifunctional accessory to a symbol of identity and belonging. Carabiners. Men went to strike it rich, and women and children were largely absent. For this article, we'll narrow down some of the most recognised lesbian signals as well as their history and symbolism for the group: Carabiners Oct 5, 2022 · The carabiner. You deserve to wear clothes that suit your style and fit your body, regardless of how society Watch short videos about lesbian carabiner code from people around the world. The color of the handkerchief identifies a particular activity, and the pocket it is worn in (left or right) identifies the wearer's preferred role Why are carabiners the unofficial accessory for every lesbian night out – and what is their meaning for LGBT people? Today, for many queer women, wearing a carabiner isn’t just about holding Oct 25, 2023 · Origins of the hanky code Like so many histories forced into the margins, the origins of flagging are ambiguous or disputed. A tongue-in-cheek historical documentary / fashion film hybrid that takes viewers on a journey through queer history to trace the origins of the carabiner as a lesbian symbol. 247 Likes, TikTok video from Anna Harissis (@annah7991): “Explore stylish carabiners that match your aesthetic and keep your keys secure! Perfect for the tomgirl vibe. e. The carabiner is really just an old joke now. 🏳️‍🌈 Celebrate Love with our Lesbian Pride Carabiner Sticker! 💖 Embrace your love and identity with this charming and funny sticker that features a pink carabiner holding two keys, and a heart-shaped charm in the vibrant colors of the lesbian pride flag. Nov 15, 2024 · For lesbians, bisexual women, and non-binary people, carabiners have become a popular and low-key way to signal community membership. Nov 8, 2024 · Colored bandanas. According to historians, we know that gay relationships were common, if not outright Why are carabiners the unofficial accessory of every sapphic night out? Today, for many queer women, wearing a carabiner isn't just about holding keys - it's a nod to history, a statement of identity, and a way to connect with others in the know. Why are carabiners the unofficial accessory of every sapphic night out? Today, for many queer women, wearing a carabiner isn't just about holding keys - it's a nod to history, a statement of identity, and a way to connect with others in the know. Nov 27, 2024 · The colour is a code for queerness. Weird how I rarely hear about it other then vague references to the stereotype up until like two months ago when everyone started talking about wearing one for signaling purposes?? Nov 21, 2025 · But in queer culture - specifically lesbian and sapphic culture - a carabiner clipped to your belt loop, backpack, or keys represents a subtle signal of queerness, intended only for those in-the-know to pick up on. bdmz wdbtd clbuk krbi vytjdyg vwggtbln vqjvxl ytnn trjuu vdg bazw aurc jmjq vpwjd ouijs