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
“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 short nails theory? ›
What is the red nail theory? The idea behind the 'red nail theory' is that if you wear red nail polish you will get more attention from everyone you meet, especially men.
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 red lip and nail theory? ›
Celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec, who shared a TikTok on this topic, says the color red often represents “power, femininity, love, seduction, strength, and confidence,so when worn on nails, it exudes those same characteristics in the person wearing them.” She adds that red nails date back to ancient Egypt.
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 .
Why are men attracted to red nails? ›
I think most men look at other parts of a woman's body before nails, starting with the face and lips, but the emotional associations of the color red with boldness and confidence are probably just as appealing for many,” the historian says.
What nail color attracts money? ›
Gold is the most powerful color if you are thinking of attracting affluence, fame, and wealth.
What nail color is most confident? ›
Deep red nails are the ideal choice for important occasions or when you want to make a striking impact since they create a statement look and radiate confidence and elegance.
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 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.
Cheerfulness and Play. Light pink nails may also symbolize cheerfulness and joy, so be sure to watch out for someone who has a radiant glow of happiness. This color may symbolize someone who wants to appeal to their playful side. This color is very popular with people who like neutrals.
What is black nail theory? ›
The idea behind black nail theory is that a shiny black manicure can boost your confidence, which is not unlike the purported effects of a classic red mani. However, the goal of painting your nails black is not to attract attention from men. It's about doing it as an act of empowerment for yourself.
Why are pink lips attractive? ›
Having pink lips is often associated with youthfulness, health, and beauty. Pink lips can make your smile more attractive and add a touch of vibrancy to your face.
What is the red nail theory mommy issues? ›
The "red nail theory" is a concept that suggests that wearing red nail polish can attract attention, particularly from men, due to subconscious associations with maternal figures from childhood.
What is the evolutionary explanation for nail biting? ›
Like many of our worst habits, nail biting is an evolutionary adaptation kicked into overdrive. Even before we had access to aisles worth of beauty products, humans practiced self-grooming, which includes getting rid of the occasional hangnails.
Are red nails work appropriate? ›
Red never fails to top any nail colour list! You can always rock red nails at office meetings, work events, or casual work days. The red colour makes you bold in your professional attire, too.
