One of the latest trends to take over TikTok is the idea of ’beige flags’, defined as something about someone who is unpleasant but doesn’t completely put them off, and isn’t as bad as a ‘red flag’.
According to social media users, this could include always telling a “funny story” before sharing a funny anecdote, cutting food into oddly small pieces, or liking pineapple on pizza.
In other words, beige flags are behaviors that are considered a bit out of the ordinary, leaving people scratching their heads. And the term has taken the internet by storm, with searches for the term recently skyrocketing 479 percent on TikTok over a 24-hour period.
While some relationship experts have warned that overuse of the term can make people overly cautious when dating, others say it may be worth identifying your own.
Sex and relationship expert Charlotte Johnson, who says a beige flag “generally refers to a red flag or concern that may not be as serious as a red flag but still requires attention and consideration,” has been associated with the astrologer Inbaal Hönigman to discuss what your beige flags may be, based on your zodiac sign.
The latest trend in dating is the concept of ‘beige flags’, which has been defined as ‘a warning sign or concern that may not be as serious as a red flag, but still deserves attention and consideration’ (image from archive)
Cancer: Frequent use of cheesy or cliché phrases
According to experts, while the occasional use of a playful or light-hearted phrase can be fun, relying too heavily on cheesy or cliché phrases “may indicate a lack of originality or depth in the dating approach.”
This, they say, can be perceived as a ‘beige flag’.
‘Those born under the sign of the crab love traditional ways and stick to the tried and tested.
“They believe in true love and would like to make sure that you are attracted to them,” say Charlotte and Inbaal.
Leo – Showing an obsession with social media or excessive selfies
Excessive focus on social media or constant posting of selfies can imply a need for validation or concern from others, which is why you clearly have Leo traits, according to experts.
According to Charlotte and Inbaal: ‘Those born under the sign of the lion love to present a well-organized image. They dress impeccably and are well versed in manners. Leos pride themselves on looking good.
Virgo – Having an extensive list of requirements or ‘deal breakers’ for dating
While having preferences and limits is healthy, a long and rigid list of deal-breakers or requirements can indicate an overly picky or inflexible mindset, reducing your chances of finding someone, and can also be seen as judgmental for some.
Charlotte and Inbaal say: ‘Those born under the sign of the virgin like things to be just the way they like them. They are very particular and feel comfortable within their own limits. They learn from personal experience.
Libra: Being too focused on appearance or constantly checking yourself in mirrors or reflective surfaces
Those born in Libra under the sign of the Scales are gorgeous and they know it. But they’re never sure if maybe they could look better, so they check it out.
‘A little look in the mirror here, a quick selfie to be sure. However, excessive preoccupation with physical appearance or self-image can be a turn-off for some, as this can indicate insecurities or a superficial focus on your superficial qualities, according to experts.
Scorpio: Being too excited about future plans too early in the relationship
While excitement about the future can be positive, excessive enthusiasm or premature planning can indicate a tendency to rush or an unrealistic view of the relationship’s progress.
The experts say: ‘And intensity is everything for those born under the sign of the scorpion. They want you to know that they mean business and try to think big. They don’t want to miss the opportunity to blow your mind.
Sagittarius: Frequently cancel or reschedule plans at the last minute
While occasional changes in plans may be understandable, frequent last minute cancellations or rescheduling may indicate a lack of respect for your time or a general irregularity.
But they can’t help it! Those born under the sign of the archer are clueless and bite off more than they can chew.
“They may be heading to a different party after their date, or arriving after lunch, and having a hard time fitting all of their socializing into their day,” Charlotte and Inbaal note.
Capricorn: Shows a tendency to drop names or flaunt connections and accomplishments.
The constant mention of names or boasting of connections and accomplishments can be indicative of an inflated ego or a need for validation.
According to experts, Capricorns, the sign of the sea goat, are very impulsive and motivated.
They add: “They find it easy to navigate the business world, but the world of dating is not their natural setting.”
Aquarius: excessive self-deprecating humor
Those born under the sign of the water bearer are loyal and fun, and certainly quirky.
They love to make you laugh and will often do so at their own expense.
“This can be seen as a ‘beige flag,’ as a little self-deprecating humor can be endearing, and too much can hint at deeper insecurities or a negative self-image,” say Charlotte and Inbaal.
Pisces – Always talking about their exes, even in passing.
Those born under the sign of the fish are so romantic that they have probably already dated everyone.
And they remain friends with their ex-lovers, which means those exes become a part of your life, too.
However, constantly bringing up past relationships, especially early on, can suggest unresolved emotional ties or a lack of preparation to move on.
According to experts: “It may be worth discussing boundaries and making sure the focus is on building a new connection rather than living in the past.”
Aries – Being excessively competitive during casual activities or games
A good dose of competition can be nice, but excessive competition can create tension or an imbalance in the dynamics of the relationship.
Aries people enjoy some hearty competition, according to experts.
They add that Aries people “love exhilaration and love to win, a clear match to this beige flag.”
Friends may find it charming, but others may see it for how unusual it is.
Taurus – Demonstrating an obsession with their pet or hobby.
Those born under the sign of the bull love their own peace and their own space.
While having a passion for or strong connection to a pet or hobby is not necessarily negative, an excessive view of it could indicate difficulty finding a balance between personal interests and the relationship.
“Taurus find it difficult to open up to a partner and therefore hide behind a pet or a hobby,” say Charlotte and Inbaal.
Gemini – Constantly checking your phone during a date
Those born under the sign of twins are always on their way to a party and have a social life that rivals anyone’s.
They need a multitude of people around them, not just one.
This behavior may indicate a lack of presence or interest in the current moment.
“It can suggest that they are easily distracted or not fully involved in the date, which may be an indication of a ‘beige flag,’ experts believe.
