If it seems like you've been encountering more people wearing red nails than ever on social media, you might be onto something. In the past 12 months, online search for red nails have increased by 160 percent globally, according to Fresha. It's not just that celebrities like Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez have caused interest in the shade to skyrocket or the fact that color is trending in beauty — this is the start of an entirely different phenomenon thanks to a viral TikTok video that has become known as the "red-nails theory."
People on the app are claiming there's a deeper reason people are drawn to this particular color of manicure. In a clip that now has more than one million views, user Robyn Delmonte theorized that men always compliment her when she wears the color on her nails. "I weirdly think that guys are attracted to red nails because it reminds them of their moms when they were growing up taking care of them," Delmonte says in one part of the video. "Or some type of mommy issues."
Delmonte isn't the only person who thinks red nails can spark a suitor's interest. Influencer and founder of The Bar Bridget Bahl has a running joke about the trend with her Instagram followers. After getting engaged while wearing one particular color — you guessed it, red — on her nails, she theorized that it's the key to taking your relationship to the next level. Many of her followers have chimed in in the comments section to agree.
So is the red-nails theory a real thing? Yes and no. First, there's a reason the shade first became a popular manicure choice so many years ago. "Red nail polish began to be popular in 1929 after American women would see that European socialites were using red polish," celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec tells POPSUGAR. The color went on to be a staple shade up until the early '70s.
However, Kandalec is skeptical of the theory. "While I don't doubt that men are indeed inadvertently drawn to things that their moms wore, I don't think this theory boils down to a red nail," Kandalec says. "Red being worn as a daily, commonplace color is very era specific, and this was primarily seen in the 1930s, '40s, '50s, and '60s, before other, more muted colors began to be popular in the '70s. Therefore, this theory greatly depends on when both the men being discussed as well as their mothers grew up."
With that in mind, if red nails were primarily a staple in the '50s and '60s, that would mean the men who grew up watching their mothers wear the color would be, at a minimum, in their 50s. While Delmonte didn't state the age range of her dating pool, it's safe to assume — for her and other TikTokers backing the theory — that the numbers don't add up here. Still, while the red-nails theory doesn't exactly pan out, there is some credence to the color red catching people's attention.
"Like a red dress, red signals love, passion, power, and sensuality," Kandalec says. "Men can definitely be drawn to that."
Whether or not you believe in the red-nails theory, it goes without saying that no part of your beauty routine should depend on the opinion of anyone other than yourself. The fun part about beauty is in the freedom to explore, so don't get hung up on the details (or theories) that make you feel limited in your self-expression. If you like a crimson manicure for that reason and that reason alone, that's good enough.
FAQs
Enter the red-nail theory, or the idea that you're more likely to get attention from potential suitors if you paint your nails red. After seeing it take over my feed, I was conflicted. I'm a '96 baby (read: generational cusp), so the millennial in me wanted to prove it silly clickbait—so antiquated!
Why do people like red nails? ›
It's elegant, classy, and exudes confidence, which is why women such as Marilyn Monroe, Princess Diana and even Cleopatra have been known to have red fingernails. It can be traced back to ancient China where the royals used the color to show off their wealth and power.
What is the red nail theory getting engaged? ›
After getting engaged while wearing one particular color — you guessed it, red — on her nails, she theorized that it's the key to taking your relationship to the next level. Many of her followers have chimed in in the comments section to agree.
What is the saying about red nails? ›
The red nail theory might seem intimidating or maybe a bit naughty, but really, it's just a “theory” that suggests wearing red nail polish makes you more desirable to men, attracting more guys to come your way. The red nail theory is a term originated by TikTok user @GirlBossTown, AKA Robyn Delmonte.
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 do red fingernails mean? ›
Red nails could mean possible heart disease or kidney issues. Red nails are also connected to conditions like psoriasis and lupus. Blue looking nails are signs of poor oxygen circulation, heart or lung issues. A vertical black stripe from the cuticle to the tip can be the most serious of all.
Are red nails classy or trashy? ›
A classic red shade can also look good with just about any outfit, and doubles well as a day look for casual wear, and a night look for a glamorous twist. If you are drawn to this shade, you are confident and daring, but also classy. It is truly the shade that never goes out of style.
Do red nails age you? ›
The right type of red is a youthful shade you can pick. Pay attention to the following: Bright orange-red nails draw attention to your manicure rather than to your hands.
Do red nails attract love? ›
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.
What is the red nail trick? ›
The idea is simple: If you wear red nail polish, you're more likely to receive attention from potential suitors. In her video, Delmonte said that every time she has red nails, a guy comments on the color. She was confused at first — until it hit her.
Lighthearted. In the past, the meaning of light pink nails had a lighthearted connotation. Light pink signified playfulness, so it may signify that someone is cheerful and sociable. If you are wondering “what does it mean if someone has blue nails”, it can mean that someone is attached, or in a relationship.
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.
Is the red nail theory real? ›
“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 art theory? ›
The Red Nail Theory is the idea that when women wear red nail polish, they're more likely to receive compliments from men. The theory was first brought up by TikTok PR whiz Robyn Delmonte (AKA @girlbosstown) in a now-viral video.
What is the red nail TikTok theory? ›
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.
What is the nail bed theory? ›
The nail bed is the skin beneath the nail plate. It is the area of the nail on which the nail plate rests. Nerves and blood vessels found here supply nourishment to the entire nail unit. Like all skin, it is made of two types of tissues: the dermis and the epidermis.
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.
What is red nails by Robert E Howard about? ›
It is set in the fictional Hyborian Age and concerns Conan entering a lost city whose degenerate inhabitants are entangled in a murderous blood feud. Due to its dark themes of decay and death, the story is considered a classic of Conan lore while also cited by Howard scholars as one of his best tales.
