Color-coded Handkerchiefs or Bandanas have different meanings across the globe. While the word “Bandana” may have been derived from a Hindi term, Bandanas have become a standard code for non-verbal communication, especially in the West.
For instance, gang members use them for symbolism, while music fans wear them to represent their music choice or love for a particular artist or band. Likewise, Bandanas play an integral role in the homosexual community or, in this case, the Orange Bandana Hanky Code.
Today, I am going to help you understand what an orange Bandana stands for (orange Bandana meaning) and what each wearing position means in these communities.
Orange Bandana Meaning
Orange Bandanas have different meanings for contrasting communities. Usually, orange represents energy and adventure, which perfectly implies to gang members expressing their territorial jurisdiction.
For instance, New Jersey’s East Coast gang H3AT employs orange Bandanas to symbolize flame or fire. Initially, the gang used the name “Heat” but later changed the name to “H3AT”, replacing “E” with “3” to represent the three ruling generals.
ALSO READ: Bandana Colors To Avoid (3 Unsafe Bandana Colors)
Likewise, LGBT communities use orange Bandanas to represent originality, allowing them to express their affection or sexual desires for others. Furthermore, Bandanas worn at different positions will enable the wearer to convey his message, depicting his choice as an active or passive partner.
According to The Leatherman’s Handbook II by Larry Townsend, the left and the right paradox of wearing an orange Bandana allow an individual to showcase his preferences.
However, the author indicates that wearing an orange Bandana and displaying a sexual preference still requires partner discussions and may sometime even become a case of self-satisfaction.
The following table will help you understand more about orange Bandanas (what does wearing orange Bandana in the back pocket mean) in the LGBT community.
Orange Bandana Meaning LGBT
| Type (Wearing Style Meaning) | What That Style Stands For |
|---|---|
| Orange Bandana in the left pocket or orange Bandana on left leg meaning | When a wearer keeps an orange Bandana in his left pocket, it indicates a desire to do anything and at any time. |
| Orange Bandana in the right pocket | If a wearer carries an orange Bandana in his/her right pocket, it means that he/she wants nothing or not looking for a sexual partner. |
| What does orange Bandana around neck mean? | There are no possible meanings for wearing orange Bandanas around the neck in the LGBT community. However, wearing a blue or red Bandana can symbolize male or female roles during a sexual meeting. |
Black And Orange Bandana Meaning
Initially, Bandanas were available in five different colors, but as manufacturers introduced more options in the mix, communities picked choices to suit their needs.
For instance, wearing a black Bandana represented a gang affiliation, where the color indicated power and control over a specific territory. Although you can consider black as intimidating and hostile, it also speaks for luxury, sexy, and mystery in other communities.
On the other hand, orange symbolizes a positive outlook and is a color that is social and inviting. Although gangs like H3AT use orange Bandanas as a symbol of flame or fire, the rising popularity of Bandanas in the music industry has normalized the use of these color-coded handkerchiefs among the masses.
Is It Safe To Wear Orange Bandana?
Although every Bandana color comes with some sort of gang affiliation, you can wear an orange Bandana in most American cities.
Furthermore, the rest of your outfit also conveys a lot about your identity, which means wearing an orange Bandana with a not-so intimidating outfit, can portray you as a neutral working man.
However, wearing an orange Bandana within an LGBT community can trigger sexual emotions, which might become awkward, especially if you are new in town.
In short, it would be best to understand your location and consider the rest of your outfit to be on the safer side.
Should You Avoid Wearing Orange Bandana?
Bandanas were a common symbol for gangs during the 80s and 90s. However, strict laws laid down by law enforcement agencies have curbed gang wars a lot.
Furthermore, popular artists and bands have adopted Bandanas as their symbol, making them more common in the streets of major American cities.
However, you might want to stick with neutral colors with your pick for Bandanas, as they can give you complete reassurance that you will not fall into any untoward incident.
In short, the best way to go completely safe is to pick an orange Bandana with symbols like peace or religious drawings. You can also complement your orange Bandana with a neutral outfit that will help people differentiate you from a possible gang member.
Final Thought
Although Bandanas have a deep association with gangs, times have changed where they have become a symbol of identity, enthusiasm, and encouragement.
You can sport an orange Bandana whenever you want, provided they do not offend or disrespect any specific community.
References
Photo by Kelsey Mirehouse on Unsplash