document updated 14 years ago, on Nov 4, 2009
There are three ways to cross your legs:
- leg A's ankle resting on top of leg B's knee
The typical male way. However, in formal environments, it's considered improper, not least because it exposes the bottom of your shoe (shoe bottoms are considered dirty, for good reason). When wearing a skirt, this is the worst possible way to position your legs; as such, women have gotten in the habbit of avoiding this position generally.
- leg A's knee on top of, and just past, leg B's knee
Considered very feminine, or if a guy does it, sissy. This is due to practical considerations, not just heteronormative assumptions. When wearing a skirt, it's an excellent way to preserve modesty. With men, their genetalia make it difficult to be comfortable. (and even if a guy can manage to find a comfortable position, it can still make others feel empathetic pain just from watching him)
- both feet on the floor, with the ankles crossed
Considered somewhat feminine (again, required with skirts to preserve modesty). However, in formal situations, if a guy has to cross his legs, this is the most preferable position.