What are Beige Flags - and Can They Predict Relationship Compatibility?
Dating in the modern world is complicated.
From maximizing your time on dating apps to debating the best way to slide into someone’s DMs, you want to feel armed with as much knowledge as possible.
You know how to avoid red flags and look for green flags, but suddenly a new type of flag has popped up: Beige flags.
But what is a beige flag, and how can you recognize one?
Here at KMA Therapy, we know relationships can be complicated. Led by relationship expert Kimberly Moffit, our team is here to answer your most pressing questions and help you find the supportive, exciting relationship you deserve.
After reading this article, you’ll know what a beige flag is, examples of beige flags, and why they’re important in relationships.
What is a Beige Flag?
A beige flag is a harmless but strange habit someone else has - it’s not necessarily a turn-off, but it’s not necessarily an asset either.
They’re the kind of things you begin to find out about someone as your relationship progresses.
The first time you stay the night with your partner, you realize they absolutely cannot sleep without socks on. The first time you grab coffee together, you realize they use a fake name to make the baristas laugh.
Examples of beige flags include:
- Watching a tv show and announcing all the others shows each actor was in
- Refusing to download TikTok but watching every single trend a few weeks later on Instagram
- Refusing to put your phone on silent because you’re scared your alarms won’t go off in the morning
- Not being able to accept that physical cash is money (if it doesn’t come off your account balance, it doesn’t count!)
- Returning items you bought and thinking of it as making money (even though you already spent it in the first place)
My best friend’s beige flag is that he deletes every single email that comes into his inbox - it’s either junk that doesn’t need to be read or a message he can delete right after he’s replied.
The #beigeflag hashtag on TikTok has hundreds of other examples to look at - not only will they help you recognize beige flags in yourself and your partner, but they’re fun to laugh at.
But what’s the point of adding yet another term to our already overly complex relationship vocabulary?
Why are Beige Flags Important in Relationships?
Beige flags are a great way to recognize your compatibility with a potential partner.
“Beige flags are just as important as the other ingredients in compatibility soup,” Kimberly shared in an article with the New York Times. “What is adorable to one person will almost certainly be repellent to someone else.”
Think of it like the infamous haircut test - when you start dating someone, a bad haircut will let you know whether your attraction runs deep enough to stay with them or if it’s time to call it quits.
When you start noticing someone’s beige flags, you’ll either begin to feel annoyed or start to fall for them even more. Their beige flags are a part of who they are and can help you determine whether it’s the kind of habit you can put up with or something that will begin to get on your nerves.
Next Steps to Learn about Dating and Relationships
After reading this article, you know what beige flags are, examples of beige flags, and how they can actually help your relationship.
Here at KMA Therapy, we’re here to be your compass as you navigate the dating world. Our experienced team of relationship therapists has been helping our clients and community create their ideal relationships for over 14 years.
Book an appointment today or connect with our caring team if you have any questions.
If you’re not yet ready to book an appointment, check out these articles to learn more:
