Attraction may be a mysterious thing, but it’s easier to quantify than you think. Research shows that while attraction often includes an intangible x-factor, trends in attraction reveal that most people share common likes and dislikes when it comes to potential partners. For instance, one study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology reveals that most women who are attracted to men prefer “average, symmetrical facial features that display certain masculine qualities,” along with a “muscular (but not muscle bound)” body type, and a certain hip to shoulder ratio. While those attributes would be difficult to change, that same study revealed one more key to women’s attraction that can be altered in a snap: women find men more attractive when they’re wearing the color red.
A second study from a team at the University of Rochester reached the same conclusion. To determine the effects of the color, those researchers invited 288 female and 25 male undergraduates to view a series of digitally altered photographs of men. In some, the men wore red or were flanked by a border of the rosy hue, while in others, there was no red in sight. The researchers then asked a series of questions, such as, "How attractive do you think this person is?" In analyzing participants’ responses, they found that both wearing and being surrounded by the color red increased women’s physical attraction.
But what is it that makes this color so attractive to others? Well, when women wear it, it’s associated with love, passion, and sultry encounters. Even absent other sultry signs, we view red dresses, lipstick, and nail polish as more sexually charged than other colors. When men wear red, the message is still amorous, but slightly more complicated. It’s associated with “power, strength, and competitive dominance”—all of which are linked with higher levels of female attraction.
This phenomenon isn’t anything new: across cultures and throughout history, red has served as a sign of high status and physical vigor. Beyond our cultural reinforcement of the color’s significance, there also seems to be a biological component. In many species, from birds to primates, the color has tangible effects on an animal’s likelihood of finding a mate.
So, if you feel like your dating life could use a boost, give it a try. Is it guaranteed to work? Nope. But wearing red might just give you the extra edge you need to get that special someone's attention. The rest, of course, is up to you. And for tips for attracting others, check out these 23 Subtle Ways to Make Yourself More Attractive.
