5 Ways To Convey You’re Queer That Definitely Aren’t Just “Wear Lots of Flannels”

Recently, VICE published a piece called “Let’s End Flannel as a Lesbian Signifier Once and for All,” in which Erin Sullivan, the author and presumable head lesbian, calls for an end to the use of the “lesbian flannel stereotype.” Sullivan argues that the trope is at best “corny” and at worst “downright offensive” and that it has no place “in 2018,” a year which we all know is praised for its total competence in protecting openly queer womxn. 2018 has been a baller year for gender equality! Aziz Ansari whomst? Louis C-qué?

Sullivan says there’s a flawed perception of what womxn who like womxn look like, and so she says the flannel’s gotta go. In response, I have compiled a list of other ways with which queer ladies could potentially present their sexuality so they too can convey that they are #gay.

1. Consider a nose ring that best matches your flannel –– Sometimes, queer ladies will have some quirky bod-mods that suggest “Yeah, I eat pussy!” or say “Of course I watched Carmilla!” Choose one that can bring out the hues from the tartan of the “non-flannel” shirt you’re wearing.
2. Dye your hair a color that highlights your flannel’s features — If that color happens to accentuate the red and black plaid you’re wearing, that’s just really not your fault. You can’t help it that you’re fabulous.
3. Think about getting a tiny lil conveniently-placed tattoo that implies you don’t trust men –– Props if it’s both soft and menacing at the same time. Extra points if it’s so conveniently placed that you can easily hide it with, I don’t know, say, a checkered green & blue woven long-sleeve?
4. Listen to lots of musical theater — That’s just it. Idk. Fantasize about how much better it’d be if the storylines were gayer.
5. Lastly, literally just wear flannels if you want to because although The Straights are co-opting the hipster queer look and honestly can’t we just have this one thing? Gay Culture is still about dressing whichever way makes YOU feel best, regardless of gender or sexuality. Gay Culture may also be about Carly Rae Jepsen and beanies.

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