Embracing Sexual Fluidity: Moving Beyond Binary Definitions
Posted by Desmond Napoles on Mar 25th 2023
Sexual orientation and sexual attraction are complex and multifaceted aspects of human identity, encompassing a variety of different experiences and identities. People may identify as heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, or any number of other identities, and may feel attracted to people of different or same genders or regardless of gender. Cultural and social contexts can influence the terms and labels that people use to describe their sexual orientation and attraction. Ultimately, it is crucial that individuals are free to express themselves authentically without fear of discrimination or prejudice.
The spectrum of sexual attraction is not a fixed binary construct but rather a diverse spectrum that includes a wide range of experiences and identities. People's sexual preferences and attractions can also shift over time, and some may identify as fluid or non-binary in their sexuality. There is no one "correct" way to experience or express one's sexuality and attraction, as the spectrum of human sexuality is complex and diverse.
It is important to recognize that there is no shame in identifying as something other than 100% heterosexual or experiencing attraction beyond the binary. Sexual orientation and attraction are deeply personal aspects of our lives, and they are not something that can be chosen or changed at will. Unfortunately, discrimination and prejudice against those who identify as non-heterosexual or beyond the binary are still present, making coming out a challenging and sometimes dangerous process.
Despite these obstacles, coming out can be an empowering and liberating experience, allowing individuals to live authentically and embrace their true selves. By coming out, people can help to break down stereotypes and promote understanding and acceptance of diversity within our communities. However, coming out is a personal decision and should be made in a way and at a time that feels safe and comfortable for each individual.
Our products are inclusive of a diverse range of sexual orientations and attractions. We encourage you to explore and discover the identities that resonate with you:
Abrosexual
Abrosexual is a sexual orientation that describes a person whose attraction to different genders changes or fluctuates over time. This means that an abrosexual individual may experience shifts in their attraction to specific genders, or they may feel that their level of attraction to a particular gender varies. This orientation can also include fluidity in one's gender identity, meaning that one's sense of self and gender identity may change over time as well. Abrosexuality is a valid and unique experience that reflects the complexity of human sexuality and should be respected and acknowledged.
Aceflux
Aceflux is a specific subset of the asexual spectrum that refers to individuals who experience fluctuations in their level of sexual attraction. Unlike other asexual identities that describe a lack of sexual attraction, aceflux individuals may experience varying levels of sexual attraction over time, ranging from no attraction to occasional attraction. This fluctuation can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as hormones, emotional state, or external circumstances. Aceflux individuals may also experience shifts in their sense of identity, with some feeling more connected to their asexuality at certain times and less so at others. It's important to note that the asexual spectrum is diverse and unique to each individual, and that there is no one "right" way to experience or express asexuality.
Androsexual
Androsexual is a term used to describe a person who is primarily attracted to masculinity or male-identified individuals, regardless of their gender identity. This orientation can include attraction to cisgender men, transgender men, or non-binary individuals who present or identify as masculine. It can also encompass a range of gender expressions and presentations that are perceived as masculine, including but not limited to clothing, behaviors, and physical features. As with all sexual orientations, the term Androsexual is a self-identifying label and can be used by individuals who feel it accurately describes their experiences and desires.
Aroace
Aroace is a term used to describe a person who identifies as both aromantic and asexual. This means that they do not experience romantic or sexual attraction to others. Aroace individuals may still form deep, meaningful connections with others, but these connections are not romantic or sexual in nature. The term "aroace" is often used to describe a person who experiences both a lack of romantic and sexual attraction, as the two are closely linked for many people. It is important to note that aroace individuals may still experience other forms of attraction, such as aesthetic or platonic attraction, and that the lack of romantic and sexual attraction does not define their entire identity. Aroace individuals may also identify with other terms that reflect their specific experiences and identities, such as gray-aroace or demi-aroace.
Aroflux
Aroflux is a term used to describe a person who identifies as aromantic, but experiences fluctuations in their level of romantic attraction over time. Aroflux individuals may experience periods where they feel little or no romantic attraction to others, while at other times they may feel a stronger or more nuanced sense of romantic attraction. This orientation can also include a fluctuation in one's sense of identity, meaning one may feel more or less connected to their aromanticism at different times. It is important to note that the experience of aroflux can vary widely between individuals, and some may experience more significant fluctuations than others. Additionally, aroflux individuals may still form close emotional connections with others, but these connections are not typically romantic in nature.
Aromantic
Aromanticism is a part of the asexual spectrum and is a term used to describe individuals who do not experience romantic attraction to others, or experience it to a significantly lesser degree than the general population. Aromantic individuals may still experience other forms of attraction, such as sexual attraction or platonic attraction, but not romantic attraction.
It is important to note that aromanticism is a valid and natural orientation, and not a disorder or a choice. Aromantic individuals may still form close, meaningful relationships with others, but these connections are typically not characterized by romantic gestures, such as holding hands, kissing, or saying "I love you" in a romantic sense.
Aromantic individuals may also identify with other terms that reflect their specific experiences and identities, such as gray-romantic, demiromantic, or lithromantic. Gray-romantic individuals experience romantic attraction infrequently, weakly, or only under certain conditions, while demiromantic individuals experience romantic attraction only after forming a strong emotional connection with someone. Lithromantic individuals experience romantic attraction but do not want it reciprocated.
Asexual
Asexual is an umbrella term used to describe a diverse spectrum of individuals who experience little to no sexual attraction towards others. This orientation can include those who experience no attraction at all (known as "asexuals"), those who experience attraction rarely or under specific circumstances (known as "gray-asexuals" or "gray-aces"), and those who experience sexual attraction but have no desire to act on it (known as "demisexuals").
Asexual individuals may also have varying levels of libido, or sexual desire, which is separate from attraction. Some may have a high libido but no sexual attraction, while others may experience low or no libido at all.
It's important to note that asexuality is a valid and natural orientation, and asexual individuals can still form deep, meaningful connections and have fulfilling relationships with others, including romantic, platonic, or queerplatonic relationships.
Bisexual
Bisexual is a sexual orientation that describes a person who experiences attraction to more than one gender. This can include attraction to men and women, as well as non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals. Bisexual people may also identify as pansexual or polysexual, as these identities also encompass attraction to multiple genders.
It is important to note that bisexuality is not binary, and does not require a perfect 50/50 split between attraction to men and women or to different genders. Attraction can be fluid and change over time, and individual experiences of bisexuality can vary widely.
Bisexual people may face unique challenges and discrimination, such as erasure of their identity or the assumption that they are not capable of monogamous relationships. It is important to respect and validate the experiences of bisexual individuals, and to understand that their sexual orientation is a valid and important part of their identity.
Demiromantic
Demiromantic is a term used to describe a person who experiences romantic attraction only after forming a deep emotional connection or bond with someone. Demiromantic individuals may not experience romantic attraction until they have developed a close emotional connection with someone, and may not feel romantic attraction to people they have not formed a connection with. This orientation is sometimes described as being on the aromantic spectrum, but still experiencing romantic attraction. It is important to note that a deep emotional connection does not guarantee romantic attraction, and that demiromantic individuals may still experience attraction differently from each other.
Demisexual
Demisexuality is a sexual orientation where an individual experiences sexual attraction only after developing a strong emotional bond or connection with someone. This means that demisexual individuals may not feel sexual attraction to people they do not have an emotional connection with, and may need to establish a deep bond or connection before experiencing sexual desire. Demisexuality is not the same as celibacy or a low libido, as demisexual individuals can still experience sexual attraction and desire, but only under specific circumstances. Demisexuality is a relatively new term, and some people who identify as demisexual may also use other labels to describe their orientation, such as grey-ace or grey-sexual.
Gay MLM
Gay MLM (Men Loving Men) is a term used to describe a man who is primarily attracted to other men, regardless of their gender identity or expression. This orientation can include attraction to cisgender, transgender, or non-binary men, and can encompass a range of gender expressions and presentations. The term "MLM" is often used as an alternative to "gay" or "homosexual" as it is more inclusive and acknowledges the diverse experiences of men who love men. Gay MLM individuals may also identify with other terms that reflect their specific experiences and identities, such as bi+, pan, or queer. It's important to note that sexual orientation is personal and can be complex, and individuals may use a variety of terms to describe their attraction to others.
Greyromantic
Greyromantic is a term used to describe a person who experiences romantic attraction in a limited, infrequent, or ambiguous way. Greyromantic individuals may feel that they are on the spectrum between aromantic and romantic, or that their romantic attraction is not consistently present or clearly defined. They may experience romantic attraction only under specific circumstances, or their attraction may fluctuate over time. Greyromanticism is a complex and diverse orientation that can vary greatly from person to person.
Greysexual
Greysexual, also known as gray-asexual, is a term used to describe a person who experiences sexual attraction in a limited or infrequent way, or with low intensity. Greysexual individuals may feel that they are on the spectrum between asexual and sexual, or that their sexual attraction is not consistently present, but may occur under certain conditions, such as after developing a strong emotional bond with someone or in response to specific stimuli. Greysexuality is a complex and diverse orientation that can manifest differently for each individual, and may be influenced by factors such as hormones, past experiences, and personal preferences.
Gynesexual
Gynesexual is a sexual orientation characterized by a primary attraction to femininity, women, or individuals who identify as female. It is a term that encompasses attraction to cisgender, transgender, or non-binary individuals who are perceived as female, and may also include those who express femininity in a variety of ways. The term is often used by individuals who identify as lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, or queer, and can describe a range of experiences and desires related to gender and sexuality. Overall, gynesexuality emphasizes a connection to femininity and female identity as a key aspect of attraction.
Lesbian
Lesbian is a term used to describe a woman who is exclusively or primarily attracted to other women. This orientation can encompass a diverse range of gender expressions and presentations, and may include attraction to cisgender, transgender, or non-binary individuals who identify as women. It is important to note that not all individuals who identify as lesbian may use the term "woman" to describe themselves or their partners, as gender identity is a complex and personal aspect of individual identity.
The experiences of lesbian individuals can also vary greatly, with some feeling a strong and constant attraction to other women, while others may experience fluctuations in their attraction over time. Lesbian individuals may also have a range of romantic and sexual orientations, and may identify as homoromantic, panromantic, or other romantic orientations.
It is important to respect and validate the experiences and identities of lesbian individuals, as they may face unique challenges related to discrimination, marginalization, and erasure. By creating inclusive and affirming spaces for lesbian individuals, we can work towards a more equitable and just society for all.
Neptunic
Neptunic is a sexuality that is often associated with non-binary individuals who are attracted to women, neutral non-binary individuals, and feminine non-binary persons. This attraction can be romantic, sexual, or both. Neptunic individuals may be drawn to people who present as feminine or have feminine qualities, regardless of their assigned gender at birth or current gender identity.
The term "neptunic" can be useful for individuals whose sexual orientation involves an attraction to all genders except for masculine-aligned individuals or men. This can include people who identify as non-binary, genderqueer, or genderfluid. It can also include people who do not identify as non-binary but who do not feel that their attraction to others is defined by gender.
Neptunic is a widely used term among gender-fluid individuals who want to describe their attraction without relying on the gender binary. It is a way for people to express their sexual identity and desire for specific individuals without feeling constrained by traditional gender labels or norms. Neptunic individuals may feel more comfortable with partners who have a non-traditional gender expression or who are more fluid in their gender identity. Ultimately, Neptunic is about celebrating the diversity of human sexuality and the many ways in which people can find love and connection with others.
Omnisexual
Omnisexual is a term used to describe a person who experiences sexual, romantic, or emotional attraction to people of any gender or identity, without regard to gender as a defining factor in their attraction. Omnisexual individuals may experience attraction to cisgender, transgender, or non-binary individuals, and may also be attracted to individuals who identify as genderqueer, agender, or other non-binary identities. This orientation is sometimes also called pansexual, but some individuals may prefer the term omnisexual as it emphasizes the focus on all genders rather than the prefix "pan," which can be perceived as implying a binary view of gender. Omnisexual individuals may also identify with other terms that reflect their specific experiences and identities, such as queer or fluid.
Pansexual
Pansexual is a term used to describe a person who is attracted to people regardless of their gender identity or expression. This orientation can include attraction to cisgender, transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, intersex, and gender non-conforming individuals, as well as those who identify as two-spirit, agender, or any other non-binary identity. Pansexuality is characterized by the potential for romantic or sexual attraction to people of any gender or gender identity, and is often viewed as a more inclusive alternative to other sexual orientations. It is important to note that pansexual individuals may still have personal preferences in terms of physical or emotional attraction, and that individual experiences of pansexuality can vary greatly.
Polyamory
Polyamory is a consensual and ethical approach to romantic and/or sexual relationships where individuals have the freedom and capacity to experience love, attraction, and/or intimacy with more than one person at the same time. It is based on open and honest communication, mutual respect, and the understanding that love and intimacy are not limited resources. Polyamorous relationships can take various forms, from a closed network of committed partners to an open network where partners may have multiple relationships outside of the core network.
Polysexual
Polysexual is a term used to describe a person who is attracted to multiple genders, but not necessarily all genders. This orientation can include attraction to two or more genders, and can encompass a range of gender expressions and presentations, including cisgender, transgender, and non-binary individuals. Polysexual individuals may have unique attractions and preferences towards certain genders or expressions, but do not necessarily experience attraction to all genders.
In addition to being attracted to multiple genders, polysexual individuals may also have different levels or types of attraction to each gender they are attracted to. For example, a polysexual person may feel a strong emotional connection to people of one gender, while feeling more physically attracted to people of another gender. It's also worth noting that polysexuality is different from bisexuality in that it does not necessarily imply attraction to only two genders.
Recipromantic
Recipromantic is a term used to describe a person who experiences romantic attraction only when it is reciprocated by the other person. This means that the individual only feels romantic attraction when they know that the other person feels the same way about them. The reciprocity is an essential factor for the development of romantic feelings. Recipromantic individuals may not feel romantic attraction until they know that the other person feels the same way, and may not feel romantic attraction to people who do not reciprocate their feelings. This orientation can be especially challenging for recipromantic individuals when it comes to initiating romantic relationships, as they may require confirmation of mutual attraction before pursuing a romantic connection. It is important to note that reciprocity is an essential element of a recipromantic's romantic attraction and that the lack of it may lead to the fading of romantic interest in the other person.
Reciprosexual
Reciprosexual is a term used to describe a person who experiences sexual attraction only in the context of a mutual or reciprocal attraction with another person. This orientation is characterized by a strong emphasis on consent and mutuality, and can be seen as a subset of demisexuality, which is the experience of sexual attraction only after a deep emotional connection has been formed. Reciprosexual individuals may not feel sexual attraction until they are sure that the other person also feels the same way, and may not feel sexual attraction to people who do not reciprocate their feelings. This orientation can exist alongside any gender identity or expression, and encompasses a wide range of sexual behaviors and preferences.
Uranic
Uranic is a term used to describe a type of sexual attraction that is characterized by an individual being attracted to those who identify as masculine or male-aligned, including androgynous or masculine-presenting non-binary individuals. This attraction can be experienced by people of any gender or sexual orientation, and may be described as a form of same-sex attraction. However, it is important to note that Uranic attraction is not exclusive to cisgender or binary individuals.
Those who experience Uranic attraction may feel drawn to the energy and characteristics associated with masculinity, such as assertiveness, confidence, and physical strength. However, it is important to note that individuals who identify as Uranic may still have varying preferences in terms of the specific gender expression, personality traits, and physical characteristics that they find attractive.
It is also important to note that Uranic attraction does not include attraction to women. While this type of attraction is often associated with individuals who identify as gay or queer, it is not limited to any specific sexual orientation. Ultimately, the label Uranic can be a helpful tool for individuals to better understand and describe their unique experience of attraction, but it is up to each individual to determine which labels, if any, feel most comfortable and accurate for them.
Beyond Labels: Exploring the Spectrum of Sexual Orientation and Attraction
*It is crucial to acknowledge that the list of sexual orientations and attractions provided here is not exhaustive.
Sexual orientation and attraction are complex and multifaceted aspects of human identity that are shaped by a range of biological, psychological, and social factors. As such, the list of sexual orientations and attractions provided in this blog post is not exhaustive and there are many more identities and experiences beyond what is included.
Furthermore, it is essential to recognize that each person's understanding and experience of their own sexual orientation and attraction is unique and valid, even if it does not fit into any specific label or category. Labels and categories can be useful for some people in understanding and expressing their sexual identity, but they should not be seen as rigid or definitive.
It is crucial to remember that sexual orientation and attraction fall along a spectrum and that there is a wide range of experiences that do not fit into traditional binary definitions. For example, the spectrum includes asexuality, which refers to individuals who do not experience sexual attraction, as well as demisexuality, which describes individuals who only experience sexual attraction after forming a deep emotional bond with someone.
Additionally, the spectrum includes identities such as pansexuality, which involves attraction to people of all genders, and queer, which can be used as an umbrella term for people who do not identify as heterosexual or cisgender.
It is important to acknowledge and celebrate the diversity of human sexuality and to create products that affirm and celebrate this diversity. This includes creating safe and inclusive spaces for people to explore and express their sexual identity without fear of discrimination or prejudice.
While labels and categories can be helpful for some people in understanding and expressing their sexual identity, it is important to recognize that sexual orientation and attraction are complex and multifaceted aspects of human identity that fall along a spectrum. It is essential to celebrate the diversity of human sexuality and create inclusive environments that allow individuals to explore and express their sexual identity freely and authentically.
Pride in Every Thread
Be Amazing NYC promotes inclusivity and diversity through our LGBTQ+ focused and inspired products. We believe that everyone should feel comfortable expressing their sexual orientation and sexual attraction, regardless of societal norms and expectations. The range of products offered by Be Amazing NYC are all designed to subtly affirm different sexual orientations and attractions, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and more.
Our mission is to create a safe and welcoming environment for people to express themselves freely and confidently, including their sexual orientation and attraction.