Why Banana Split Shop Uses "Sapphic"—And Why It Matters

Our mission is to foster a supportive space for open discourse about queer intimacy and pleasure. A space that recognizes and celebrates the full spectrum of attraction and identity, beyond restrictive labels. We use the term sapphic intentionally because the language we choose shapes who feels included, who we serve, and who feels seen in our community.

But what does it actually mean to be sapphic, and why is this identity so important to us at Banana Split Shop?

Words have power. The words we use shape our communities, our visibility, and our inclusion.

Historically, sapphic people have had to carve out their own spaces—whether in literature, pop culture, or even within LGBTQ+ circles. Yet, the language of attraction has often been limiting, leaving nonbinary, bisexual, pansexual, and trans sapphics without a clear identity or a community to call their own. Too often, they are left feeling like outsiders in queer or lesbian spaces, questioning whether they truly belong.

Sexuality is fluid. Identities shift, evolve, and grow—yet there’s often fear that questioning or exploring labels could mean losing connection to a community. And we believe that no one should feel alienated from their own queerness just because their identity ebbs and flows.

This is why sapphic matters. It offers flexibility, inclusivity, and space for self-exploration. Just like Banana Split Shop's designs, the term acknowledges that queer love isn’t one-size-fits-all. After all, don’t we already deal with enough imposter syndrome in our lives? No one should have to wonder if they’re “queer enough” to belong.

"Sapphic” is valuable because it provides a way to connect across our vast spectrum of identities and sexualities. For many, it offers a sense of belonging that affirms their queerness, no matter how they define it.