Is TikTok's Red Nail Theory the Secret to Attracting a Partner? (2024)

This #TikTokTuesday, we’re exploring the new trend that has many choosing a bold color for their manicures.

Publicado en Noviembre 29, 2022 01:11PM EST

When faced with all the nail polish bottles or swatches at the nail salon, most of us make our choices based on our favorite color, preferred neutral shade or with an upcoming holiday in mind.

However, a new TikTok trend has many manicure lovers going straight for a bold, yet classic color: red.

While red nails definitely aren't out of the ordinary or anything new, the reasoning behind the choice has gone viral as the "Red Nail Theory," with thousands of women on the app painting their nails the bright hue.

What exactly is the theory behind this color choice? It turns out, there are a few different theories that have all come together.

The first, the most Freudian of the bunch, proposes that the color reminds men of the women who raised them.

TikTok creator and social media expert @GirlBossTown was one of the first to mention this theory when commenting on the fact she seemed to draw more male attention when sporting red nails.

"In the '90s when we were growing up, women had red nails a lot—especially our moms. And I weirdly think guys are attracted to red nails because it reminds them of their moms," she stated.

However, others believe it may have more to do with the emotions we've assigned to the color.

"Red is the color of passion, romance and sensuality, so I'm not at all surprised about the link between people finding love with a red nail," says Charlotte Knight, founder of Ciate London and Lottie London.

Is TikTok's Red Nail Theory the Secret to Attracting a Partner? (1)

Ciate London, Plant Pots Polish in shade Snatched, $9.60, ciatelondon.com

Since ancient times, red has been associated with sex and fertility, so it comes as no surprise that the color could stir up a flirty mood.

In fact, a study published in 2008 states the color red in general makes men feel more attracted to women, almost like a visual aphrodisiac.

More importantly, choosing a bold color may make you feel more powerful and even increase your self-confidence during a night out.

If you like the color, we suggest you go for it, regardless of its power to attract others.

Is TikTok's Red Nail Theory the Secret to Attracting a Partner? (2024)

FAQs

Is TikTok's Red Nail Theory the Secret to Attracting a Partner? ›

In fact, a study published in 2008 states the color red in general makes men feel more attracted to women, almost like a visual aphrodisiac. More importantly, choosing a bold color may make you feel more powerful and even increase your self-confidence during a night out.

Does the red nail theory actually work? ›

“I think that the red nail theory is a real thing because psychologically, we associate red with passion, love, and power,” says Hanna. “While it's not necessarily scientifically proven that red nails are attractive, it often makes you appear more confident and alluring.”

What is the red nail theory relationship? ›

A man may associate the color red with the time in his life when there was a woman who took care of him, tended to his every need and loved him unconditionally. For this reason, a man might be more drawn to a woman if he sees she has red fingernails.

Do red nails turn guys on? ›

One study found that men were more likely to rate a woman as attractive if she was wearing red nail polish. The study also found that men were more likely to approach a woman who was wearing red nail polish. Another study found that men were more likely to remember a woman's name if she was wearing red nail polish.

What does "red nails" mean on TikTok? ›

The “red nail theory,” a term coined by TikTok creator Robyn Delmonte, aka @GirlBossTown, has become a viral sensation. The idea is simple: If you wear red nail polish, you're more likely to receive attention from potential suitors.

What nail color is most attractive to guys? ›

Nail design: Men like these colors

In a representative survey, the German Paint Institute found that men generally likeblue , but also likegray , black and brown . Both sexes like green about equally, while women are more likely to like red ,yellow ,beige and orange .

What does red nails say about a woman? ›

“Men remember women who have red nails, which is good if you are hoping to make a lasting impression. Red is associated with strong emotions, strength, power, courage, and danger. Red nails are a clear signal a woman is ready to attract a partner.”

Do guys like girls with red nails? ›

Experts do, however, universally agree that red has a powerful effect on men. A 2008 study of 27 men with a median age of 20 found that men consider women wearing red more attractive and sexually desirable.

What do blue nails mean on a girl? ›

What do 'light blue nails' mean on TikTok? Basically, if you've got blue nails, it means that you have a boyfriend, or you're taken. There's also a theory that when girls ask their boyfriends what colour they should get their nails done, they will apparently always say "light blue" or "baby blue".

What do purple nails mean on a girl? ›

Blue or purple nail beds or nails are a common sign of cyanosis, which is caused by a lack of oxygen in the blood. This type of discoloration can also occur on other parts of the body including the hands, fingertips, toes, nose, lips, and tongue. Cyanosis is often caused by exposure to cold temperatures.

What color turns a man on? ›

The Subtle Signal That Says "I Want You"

Turns out, we might. New research out of the University of Rochester found that guys think a woman is more interested in sex when she's wearing red. For their study, scientists showed men a pic of a woman wearing a red T-shirt, and another of her wearing a white T-shirt.

Do guys get attracted to nails? ›

Yes, in general. But not always! Since nail polish is a mark of femininity, most men will find women more attractive if they wear nail polish. However, most men are turned off by: fake nails, paste-on nails, extreme nail art, extremely long nails, sharp nails, or even square nails.

What is the attraction of red nails? ›

Luckily, a love-filled theory has been circulating online, arguing it's the key to scoring a date this Valentine's Day. Enter: the red nail theory. The term, which was coined by TikTok creator Robyn Delmonte (@GirlBossTown), hypothesises that men are more attracted to women when their nails are painted red.

Is the red nail theory true? ›

Therefore, she doesn't feel like the theory applies across the board. “While red has been scientifically proven to be attractive to men, wearing one nail color over another will probably not make or break a man's opinion of you, nor should it!” says Emily H. Rudman founder of Emilie Heathe.

What is the red color theory on TikTok? ›

According to TikTok, the newly coined 'unexpected red theory', is the secret to making any space look better. Essentially, it's adding anything that's red – be it big or small – to a room where it doesn't match at all, transforming the space in one fell swoop.

What nail color means relationship? ›

Red nails represent romance, passion, and confidence.

The color red has long been associated with desire and sensuality. As a result, many people believe that red nail polish can help you attract passionate love into your life while also getting more in touch with your sensual side.

Is it a myth to let your nails breathe? ›

The idea that nails need to “breathe” by going polish-free is a myth. While it's essential to practice proper nail care and give your nails occasional breaks between manicures, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that nails require periods of nakedness.

What do red nails attract? ›

Basically, by wearing red nails, you'll be more confident and also attract some romantic attention.

Do people really notice your nails? ›

The fact is that people do take notice of your fingernails. So whether you're dating, interviewing for a new job, meeting prospective clients or just going about your day-to-day business, it helps to have hands that look good. Grooming your nails is not something men should be ashamed of.

What does red nail polish manifest? ›

How Your Nails Can Help Manifest Confidence. Red represents passion — and there is no better color to ignite the spark within ourselves to help us regain our confidence or personal power.

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