Courtship and flirtation have definitely changed through the years!
The young ladies of the Victorian Era had to rely on more subtle hints and
gestures to convey their feelings. Fans played a definite role in the courtship
game and when used properly the messages were unmistakable. The
following list will give you an idea of these gestures and the emotions
they represent.

  • Fanning Fast-Independance
  • Fanning Slow-Engaged
  • Fan Snapped Open/Shut-Kiss me
  • Wide Open Fan-Love
  • Half Open Fan-Friends
  • Closed Fan-Hate
  • Fan Twirling in Right Hand-You're being watched
  • Fan Rested on Right Cheek-Yes
  • Fan Placed To Left Ear-Leave me alone
  • Fanning Face With Right Hand-Come on
  • Fanning Face With Left Hand-Leave me
  • Fan Placed To Lips-Kiss Me
  • Resting Closed Fan To Right Eye-When can I see you?
  • Open Fan Pressed To Left Ear-Do not betray our secret
  • Pulling Fan Across The Eyes-I apologize
  • Fan Twirling in Left Hand-We are being watched
  • Presenting The Fan Closed-Do you love me?




If you have anything that you would like to add to this page then feel free to email me!

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