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
Christian Louboutin, Taylor Swift, and Jessica Rabbit all identify with the color—and more recently, single girls of TikTok do too. 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.
What is the red nail theory for 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. So is the red-nails theory a real thing? Yes and no.
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 lip and nail theory? ›
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.
Do red nails attract guys? ›
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 nail polish mean on a girl? ›
“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.”
What does 💅 mean from a girl? ›
3. A 💅 indicates a sassy tone. Someone may use a 💅 to show that what they've sent is to be read in a bold and cheeky way. In this context, the emoji means “bougie.” X Research source This usage is especially popular on TikTok. “I'd rather be painting my nails than talking to you 💅”
What nail color do men prefer? ›
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 .
Are red nails classy or trashy? ›
Whether red nails are considered classy or trashy can depend on the context, the shade of red, and the overall appearance of the manicure. A well-manicured set of red nails, with a clean, appropriate length and shape for the occasion, is widely regarded as a classic and elegant choice.
What does a red fingernail mean? ›
Noticed some red nails recently? 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.
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 does black nail polish mean? ›
Black nail polish is still widely used as a symbol of defiance and identification in LGBTQ+ communities today. Its prominence in fashion, journalism, and social media platforms increases its visibility, allowing people to accept their true selves without fear of being judged.
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.
What is the red nail therapy? ›
Basically, by wearing red nails, you'll be more confident and also attract some romantic attention. It's been a while since the theory has launched, so now that the dust has settled, let's investigate it. My initial reaction to this color theory was to shut it down immediately.
What is the meaning behind painting one nail? ›
Men often paint one fingernail to help raise awareness about violence against children. The idea is that by painting one in five nails, it raises awareness that one in five children will be victims of sexual violence. The campaign is spearheaded by Polished Man, a nonprofit organization.
