Subtle Communication Devices in the Victorian Age

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Women had several subtle ways of sending covert messages to those of the opposite sex that they might be interested in. Fans were a flirting tool used to send coded messages. A fan held to the heart meant that the other person had their heart. Opened wide meant -- let's chat. I am single. If the fan was slapped shut suddenly it meant to leave them alone. If it was dropped on the floor it was to get noticed. Handkerchiefs could be scented and even have secret messages sown in then left in a strategic spot for a suiter to find. Eyebrows moved slightly could mean interest if raised ever so slightly or complete disdain if raised higher. Gloves were a mandatory part of a woman's accessories. Touching a woman's bare hand was basically third base. They were also symbols. Removing a glove directly in someone's direction could make pulses race. It was seen as a gallant gesture for a gentleman to pick up a lady's dropped glove. The parasol twirling slightly meant you found the other interesting. Resting it on the shoulder meant you were open to conversation.