- 1 / 7Yes, we already have this one here in the States—the classic V-sign for "peace" or "victory". The popularity of the gesture, however, seems to have emerged from a strange confluence of pop culture phenomena including an American figure skater Janet Lynn, a Japanese comic, and a television ad for a camera.Illustration by Rachel Tepper Paley
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Some sources point to Japanese teen model Manami Enosawa as the instigator of the pistol pose. It’s apparently inspired by anime tropes—the pistol suggests that a character is plotting something malicious—but generally, it’s meant to appear cute.Illustration by Rachel Tepper Paley - 3 / 7
This pose may have begun as a way for magazine photographers to showcase their models’ fingernail designs. Over time it trickled down to selfie culture, and now many young girls imitate the gesture, called mushiba no poozu, which in Japanese literally means "cavity pose."Illustration by Rachel Tepper Paley - 4 / 7
Korean celebrities are often photographed making this gesture, in which a crossed thumb and forefinger make the shape of a heart. It’s often used to express love or appreciation, making it the perfect sign for celebrities to flash at fans.Illustration by Rachel Tepper Paley - 5 / 7
It’s unclear where this pose began, but it’s a popular one in China. It may be a derivative of the classic peace sign, or perhaps adapted from a military salute.Illustration by Rachel Tepper Paley - 6 / 7
This sign is meant to form the word “OK,” with the thumb and forefinger forming an “O” (often around the eye) and the other fingers forming a “K”. Definitely meant to look whimsical and breezy, we think this gesture is more than just OK!Illustration by Rachel Tepper Paley - 7 / 7
Illustration by A. Salamandra
