Abstract: A sign system includes an accessory holder having a base element and being adapted to be worn by a user and a plurality of interchangeable accessories, each accessory being releasably attachable to the base element so that a visible surface of the accessory is visually juxtaposed with a visible surface of the base element, one part at least partially surrounding the other in the manner of a frame, where the frame and accessory together form a composite signifier in which the signified is decoded from indicia on the accessory by members of a community who share the sign system and wear the base element, for example as jewellery or attached to a garment.