A poll of 2,000 women has revealed the top 20 signs that indicate membership in the 'sisterhood,' including tucking in a clothing label, warning of a wardrobe malfunction, and not going to bed until everyone is safely home. The study, commissioned by Maltesers, highlights the 'sisterhood code,' a secret language women share through gestures and unspoken cues.
Key Signs of Sisterhood
The most common sign is the quick 'Are you okay?' check-in, followed by complimenting someone's outfit and giving a knowing look when someone needs rescuing from a conversation. Other signs include telling someone if there is no toilet paper in the cubicle (41 percent), fixing a bra strap discreetly (37 percent), and sharing tissues, plasters, safety pins, phone chargers, and hair ties.
Unspoken Communication
The study found that 37 percent of women have a mutual unspoken form of communication with their friends, and 68 percent can carry a conversation using only eye contact. On average, women perform a 'sisterhood code' gesture three times a week. A spokesperson for Maltesers said: 'These moments might be subtle, but they speak volumes. From a knowing look across the room to stepping in without a word, the sisterhood code is built on empathy, instinct, and having each other's backs.'
Where the Code Is Used
The places where women are most likely to use this covert communication include bars or nightclubs (36 percent), public toilets (26 percent), and the workplace (22 percent). The study also revealed that 68 percent of women generally feel supported by other women, and 77 percent believe women should support each other to look on the light side of life. Additionally, 77 percent said experiencing the sisterhood code improves their day, and 80 percent reckon a moment of shared humor or a small gesture can turn a bad day into a better one.
Top 20 Signs of the Sisterhood Code
- Doing the quick 'Are you okay?' check-in
- Complimenting someone's outfit
- Giving a look when someone needs rescuing from a conversation
- Tucking in a clothing label
- Telling someone if there is no loo roll in the cubicle
- Warning of a wardrobe malfunction
- Telling someone if their makeup is smudged
- Telling someone if they have something in their teeth
- Sharing a smile to boost someone else's mood
- Passing a tissue, plaster, or safety pin when needed
- Fixing a bra strap, dress zip, or necklace clasp discreetly
- Never being judgmental
- Helping lift a pushchair upstairs or off public transport
- Going to the loo together on a night out
- Holding someone's place in a queue
- Protecting a female colleague in a meeting when it's getting frustrating
- Distracting a friend's kids while she's trying to concentrate
- Letting someone borrow your charger or power bank in an emergency
- Offering a hair tie or bobby pin when someone needs one
- Not going to bed until all your party have messaged to say they are home safe
The study was conducted via OnePoll.com and commissioned by Maltesers, which has partnered with Angela Scanlon and Judi Love to bring the Sisterhood Code to life in a short film.
