BDSM Symbols and Meanings: Triskelion, Flags and Collars Explained

Last Updated on 1 November, 2025 by Cara Sutra

Curious about BDSM symbols? This guide explains the BDSM triskelion, the BDSM flag, and other icons that represent kink culture and community. Learn their history, meaning, and how they are used today.

Why Are Symbols Important in BDSM?

Symbols have always been powerful markers of identity and belonging. Within BDSM, discreet signs and emblems allow people to recognise others in the scene without having to speak openly. These symbols are often worn as jewellery, tattoos, clothing designs, or displayed in online profiles.

They serve as a way to show awareness, interest, or participation in BDSM while remaining subtle enough to be recognised mainly by those in the know.

The BDSM Triskelion Symbol

What Does the BDSM Triskelion Look Like?

The BDSM triskelion is a circular symbol divided into three swirling sections, often black on a white background. Each third is separated by curved lines that resemble a three-spoked wheel.

The Origins of the BDSM Triskelion

The design was created in the mid-1990s by Steve Quagmyr during an AOL discussion. He drew inspiration from The Story of O, where a ring was described as bearing a three-spoked wheel. The triskelion is also reminiscent of ancient triskelion motifs and the yin-yang symbol, both of which represent balance.

The Meaning of the BDSM Triskelion

Interpretations vary, but common associations include:

• The three pairings of the BDSM acronym: Bondage and Discipline, Dominance and Submission, Sadism and Masochism.
• The BDSM principles of Safe, Sane and Consensual (SSC) or Risk-Aware Consensual Kink (RACK).
• The three core BDSM roles: Dominant, submissive, and switch.

Quagmyr explained that black represents the chains and irons of BDSM, the curved lines represent the lash in motion, and the circle represents unity within the community.

The BDSM Rights Flag

Another well-known BDSM symbol is the BDSM Rights Flag. It was created in 2005 by Tanos, a Dominant who ran the website BDSM Rights.

The design features nine horizontal stripes that alternate black and blue, with a thick white stripe running across the centre. In the middle sits a red BDSM triskelion inside a white circle. The colour palette references the Leather Pride Flag, a long-standing symbol in leather, fetish and BDSM communities.

The BDSM Rights Flag was intended to highlight the importance of consent, visibility and the rights of BDSM practitioners.

Other BDSM Symbols You May See

Beyond the triskelion and the BDSM Rights Flag, there are other symbols used in the wider kink community:

• Collars: A collar worn around the neck can symbolise submission, ownership, or commitment within a D/s relationship.
• The Leather Pride Flag: Designed in 1989, this flag has black, blue, white stripes and a red heart, and is strongly associated with the leather and BDSM scene.
• Handkerchief Code: Borrowed from gay leather culture, bandanas or handkerchiefs in different colours can indicate preferences or kinks.

How Are BDSM Symbols Used Today?

BDSM symbols are often worn in subtle ways to signal awareness and participation without being overt. Some examples include:

• Jewellery with the triskelion design.
• Tattoos featuring the BDSM symbol.
• Profile pictures or icons in online kink communities.
• Displayed discreetly at events or munches to signal interest.

For many, these symbols create a sense of community, connection, and belonging in a world where BDSM is still often misunderstood.

BDSM Symbols FAQ

What is the BDSM triskelion?

The BDSM triskelion is a circular symbol divided into three swirling sections. It represents the BDSM acronym, consent principles like SSC or RACK, and unity in the BDSM community.

What does the BDSM triskelion mean?

The meaning varies, but it is often said to symbolise Bondage and Discipline, Dominance and Submission, and Sadism and Masochism. Others interpret it as Safe, Sane and Consensual, or the three roles of Dominant, submissive, and switch.

Is there a BDSM flag?

Yes. The BDSM Rights Flag was created in 2005 by Tanos. It features nine horizontal stripes in alternating black and blue with a thick white stripe through the centre. At the middle sits a red BDSM triskelion inside a white circle. The design was inspired by the Leather Pride Flag and created to represent consent, visibility and the rights of BDSM practitioners.

What do collars symbolise in BDSM?

Collars can symbolise submission, ownership, or commitment in a D/s relationship. They may be worn as jewellery or discreet markers of a submissive dynamic.

What symbols are used in BDSM culture?

Common BDSM symbols include the triskelion, the BDSM Rights Flag, collars, the Leather Pride Flag, and the handkerchief code colours that indicate preferences.

Related Reading and Resources

• What Does BDSM Stand For?
• Beginner’s Guide to BDSM
• Safe Words and Traffic Lights: How to Say Stop in BDSM
• Bondage Beginner’s Guide

External resource:

• National Coalition for Sexual Freedom – BDSM Basics

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