Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsUnderstanding the Red Nail TheoryCultural and Societal FactorsHow to Test Out the Red Nail TheoryLimitations and Challenges
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Understanding the Red Nail Theory
Cultural and Societal Factors
How to Test Out the Red Nail Theory
Limitations and Challenges
Close
Throw away all of thedating adviceyou’ve ever received. Why? Because, apparently all you need to score a date is to paint your nails red.
Since Delmonte’s post went viral, TikTok users have tested the theory and shared their own wins (and losses!). New York City-based TikTok creator,Taylor Donoghue, shared how four men hit on her in public after getting a red manicure two days prior. Similarly,TikTok creator Melisse Martineausaid she’d been asked on five or six dates since getting her red manicure two to three weeks ago. Countless other users have also shared how their partners can’t keep their hands off them when they wear red nails and that their partners actually prefer their red manicures to other nail colors.
A Look AheadTo discover whether or not the red nail theory is legit, we spoke to two relationship experts on the psychological and cultural factors that may contribute to men’s supposed attraction to red nails. We also tapped two nail experts for tips if you want to test out the theory yourself. Below, find everything you’ve ever needed to know about the viral red nail theory.
A Look Ahead
To discover whether or not the red nail theory is legit, we spoke to two relationship experts on the psychological and cultural factors that may contribute to men’s supposed attraction to red nails. We also tapped two nail experts for tips if you want to test out the theory yourself. Below, find everything you’ve ever needed to know about the viral red nail theory.
The red nail theory, simply, “suggests that men are more attracted to women who wear red nail polish,” says sex and relationship therapistDr. Melissa Cook. “Red nail polish suggests confidence, femininity, and sensuality, which can draw more attention from the opposite sex.”
In addition to these psychological factors, there’s also an evolutionary reason why we’re unconsciously drawn to red nails. Although homosapiens have evolved to conceal ovulation, “all other primates have evolved to have asexual communication system, usually in the form of a swollen vulva with a vibrant red tone,” says relationship expert and psychology professorDr. Wendy Walsh. In fact, a 1999 study suggests that sexual swellings signal the probability of ovulation in female primates, which they use to manipulate male behavior.
Dr. Wendy Walsh, relationship expert and psychology professorOur penchant for red lips, red cheeks, and yes, red nails, may well be an unconscious way to signal fertility.
Dr. Wendy Walsh, relationship expert and psychology professor
Our penchant for red lips, red cheeks, and yes, red nails, may well be an unconscious way to signal fertility.
A 2008 study also argues that men’s attraction to the color red has biological roots. The study authors found that men rated women wearing red as moreattractive and sexually desirable, and they are seemingly unaware of this unconscious attraction.
Red Color Psychology
If you take note of the femme fatales of old Hollywood movies, more often than not they can be seen sporting a bold red lip, long, red nails, or a glamorous red gown. From Scarlett O’Hara in “Gone with the Wild” to Charlotte in “The Woman in Red,” the color red has historically been associated with bawdy, rule-breaking, sexual women, says Dr. Walsh.
Did You Know?Culturally, red is linked with power, seduction, and femininity, adds Dr. Cook. “These are all traits that could be considered attractive.” In 20th-century Hollywood, red nails and lipstick became a symbol of glamor and a trademark of bold characters, Dr. Cook says. Presently, “red nails continue to be a marker of classic beauty and confidence.”
Did You Know?
Culturally, red is linked with power, seduction, and femininity, adds Dr. Cook. “These are all traits that could be considered attractive.” In 20th-century Hollywood, red nails and lipstick became a symbol of glamor and a trademark of bold characters, Dr. Cook says. Presently, “red nails continue to be a marker of classic beauty and confidence.”
Whether it’s red nails, red lipstick, or a red blouse, research shows that women wearing red get more right swipes on dating apps, says Dr. Walsh. And to increase their attractiveness to potential partners, both men and women tend to wear more red clothing during a first date.
Science (and Personal Experiences!) Say the Red Nail Theory Is Legit
So if you thought the red nail theory was a fluke, research shows that it’s quite legit. From biology to the influences of Hollywood, there’s no denying the power the color red holds inattracting a potential mate.
Sandra Salvatierra, 24, says she’s been wearing a pair of red press-on nails for the past week and noticed that both men and women have stopped her on the street to compliment them. “I went on a date recently and the guy immediately commented on them!”
Similarly, Lesego Tlhabi, 35, recounts the powerful effect red nails have on her current partner. “I don’t have more men approaching me, but my boyfriend has commented that it’s his absolute favorite of all the manicures I’ve had,” she says. “He thinks it’s very sexy. I don’t know why.”
So, you want to test out the red nail theory? Apart from science saying a red manicure will make you instantly more attractive, there’s another reason why you should consider opting for a red polish at your next nail appointment. “Red is classic and elegant,” saysPriscilla Nguyen, education supervisor for Aprés Nail. And, “regardless of the season, it’s always on trend,” adds celebrity manicurist and educatorJulie Kandalec.
Keep in Mind
Despite countless research pointing to the validity of the red nail theory, the idea isn’t without its fair share of hiccups.
For one, while research suggests that women may get more male attention with red nails, it may not necessarily be the type of attention she desires, says Dr. Walsh. As a result, while there are hundreds of videos of people professing their success with the red nail theory, there are those on the opposite side of the spectrum opting out of the trend to avoid getting unwanted attention.
The Red Nail Theory Has Its Limitations
Sure, your fresh red manicure might catch the bait, but a personal connection, authenticity, and charm are what will really hook them in.
Dr. Cook cautions against following relationship and dating advice from social media trends. “It can createunrealistic expectations and pressureswhen it comes to relationships, as well as how people should present themselves,” she says. Trends based on appearance, like the red nail theory, can also reinforce superficial standards of attraction and lead somepeople to prioritize looksover genuine connections, she adds.
At the end of the day, the red nail theory is not foolproof. There’s no guarantee that you’ll attract someone with red nails, let alone an authentic, mutual connection. With that said, “if you want to attract someone, be sure to dress in a way that reflects your personality and allows you to feel confident,” says Dr. Cook, rather than following a certain color trend that may not reflect who you are or your own unique tastes.
What Happens When We Feel Romantic Chemistry?
3 SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Nunn CL.The evolution of exaggerated sexual swellings in primates and the graded-signal hypothesis.Animal Behaviour. 1999;58(2):229-246. doi:10.1006/anbe.1999.1159Elliot AJ, Niesta D.Romantic red: red enhances men’s attraction to women.J Pers Soc Psychol. 2008;95(5):1150-1164. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.95.5.1150Kramer RSS, Mulgrew J.Displaying red and black on a first date: a field study using the “first dates” television series.Evol Psychol. 2018;16(2):1474704918769417. doi:10.1177/1474704918769417
3 Sources
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Nunn CL.The evolution of exaggerated sexual swellings in primates and the graded-signal hypothesis.Animal Behaviour. 1999;58(2):229-246. doi:10.1006/anbe.1999.1159Elliot AJ, Niesta D.Romantic red: red enhances men’s attraction to women.J Pers Soc Psychol. 2008;95(5):1150-1164. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.95.5.1150Kramer RSS, Mulgrew J.Displaying red and black on a first date: a field study using the “first dates” television series.Evol Psychol. 2018;16(2):1474704918769417. doi:10.1177/1474704918769417
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Nunn CL.The evolution of exaggerated sexual swellings in primates and the graded-signal hypothesis.Animal Behaviour. 1999;58(2):229-246. doi:10.1006/anbe.1999.1159Elliot AJ, Niesta D.Romantic red: red enhances men’s attraction to women.J Pers Soc Psychol. 2008;95(5):1150-1164. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.95.5.1150Kramer RSS, Mulgrew J.Displaying red and black on a first date: a field study using the “first dates” television series.Evol Psychol. 2018;16(2):1474704918769417. doi:10.1177/1474704918769417
Nunn CL.The evolution of exaggerated sexual swellings in primates and the graded-signal hypothesis.Animal Behaviour. 1999;58(2):229-246. doi:10.1006/anbe.1999.1159
Elliot AJ, Niesta D.Romantic red: red enhances men’s attraction to women.J Pers Soc Psychol. 2008;95(5):1150-1164. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.95.5.1150
Kramer RSS, Mulgrew J.Displaying red and black on a first date: a field study using the “first dates” television series.Evol Psychol. 2018;16(2):1474704918769417. doi:10.1177/1474704918769417
Meet Our Review Board
Share Feedback
Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!What is your feedback?HelpfulReport an ErrorOtherSubmit
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
What is your feedback?HelpfulReport an ErrorOtherSubmit
What is your feedback?
