How "Red Nail Theory" Can Help Unlock Your Inner Confidence (2024)

TikTok is full of tips and tricks for getting noticed, fast. A recent example of the social machine’s prowess? Red nail theory. From meticulously curated “cores” to trend-defining makeup palettes, TikTokers can turn even the most classic beauty looks (ahem, a red manicure) into viral sensations that feel fresh and conversation-worthy.

I Tried Dozens of Red Nail Polishes to Test TikTok’s Red Nail Theory Trend, and These 3 Are My Favorites

Red nail theory revamps the idea of the timeless red manicure into a vehicle for instant attention—perhaps even of the romantic variety. If you’ve ever experienced the self-assuredness (and the double-takes) that comes when you incorporate red into your makeup or wardrobe, you’ve already done a bit of case testing.

But what exactly is red nail theory—and does it really work? Experts help us break it down.

Meet the expert

  • Leatrice Eiseman is the executive director at the Pantone Color Institute and founder of Eiseman Center for Color Information and Training.
  • Mazz Hanna is a celebrity nail artist and CEO of Nailing Hollywood.
  • Anna Yusim, MD, is a psychiatrist and executive coach.

Red Nail Theory Origins

Red nail theory cropped up in early 2022 when public relations expert and creatorRobyn Delmontenoticed the effect andtook to TikTok to coin it. “I know guys are attracted to red nails, and I’ll tell you why,” Delmonte asserts, gesticulating with her cherry-red manicure. “Every time I have red nails [...] a guy comments on it.” She postulates that the positive association comes from ‘90s beauty norms and the fact that many of the era’s female caretakers rocked the red.

Eiseman agrees with the hypothesis. “Much of color association starts in childhood,” she explains. “It is a logical conclusion that men would be attracted to red nail polish as a reminder of the colors their mothers wore on their nails at a significant time when they were strongly connected and dependent.”

Since then, the trend has taken on a life of its own, with TikTokers painting nails in the most fiery shades while discussing the theory and reporting results.

How "Red Nail Theory" Can Help Unlock Your Inner Confidence (1)

How to Use Red Nail Theory

The first step of red nail theory involves adopting an appropriate manicure.

“Red nails are great because there are so many different shades and undertones that can be paired with any skin tone or personal preference,” saysHanna. “Red nails are truly timeless and chic.”

Additionally, as Eisman notes, there’s no reason to relegate the powers of red to nails alone.“The use of red in other areas, obviously on the lips, or in items of clothing, are equal attention-getters.”

Does Red Nail Theory Actually Work?

“Associations with red can be culturally significant, thereby evoking specific emotions and perceptions,” saysDr. Yusim. “Red is often associated with love, romance, and passion in many cultures.” She adds that red is the color of blood, which calls to mind vitality and energy—and that all of these associations can, indeed, subconsciously influence how individuals perceive someone wearing red nail polish.

“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.”

How to Wear Red, According to InStyle Editors

The shade holds an equally powerful position when it occurs naturally, further proving the theory’s broader point.“Red is mother nature’s signal color—think of hummingbirds and their attraction to red,” says Eiseman. “It is a dynamic color that is impossible to ignore.”

How "Red Nail Theory" Can Help Unlock Your Inner Confidence (5)

Benefits and Limitations

Regardless of the truth of the theory, red nail polish offers a quick confidence boost. “Wearing red nail polish can be seen as a form of confident self-expression, showing that one is not afraid to stand out and be noticed,”says Dr. Yusim. “Confidence can contribute to attractiveness: when individuals feel confident and comfortable in their own skin, it can make them more appealing to others.”

That said, there’s absolutely no guarantee that the red-nail reaction is a universal one—and that initial attention can only get us so far.“Individual preferences of what is attractive versus not vary widely, and it's important to remember that personal qualities and interactions play a significant role in attracting others, rather than solely relying on the color of nail polish,” says Dr. Yusim.

Controversies and Criticisms

A2008 studypublished in theJournal of Personality & Social Psychologyfound that red, relative to other achromatic and chromatic colors, led men to view women as more attractive and sexually desirable—and that men were unaware of the effect. But while wearing red on your nails may succeed in getting a human being’s attention, this likely has more to do with the bold nature of the color (and that association’s effects on both parties) and less to do with said human’s mom or other past matriarchal figures.

“Ultimately, feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin, expressing yourself authentically, and cultivating positive personal qualities are likely to have a more significant impact on attracting others than the specific color of nail polish you choose,” says Dr. Yusim. She adds that an individual’s associations with colors—as well as their experience with past caretakers, again the crux of the original theory—varies widely and cannot be counted on as universal.

How "Red Nail Theory" Can Help Unlock Your Inner Confidence (2024)

FAQs

What is the red nail theory confidence? ›

Wearing red nail polish can be seen as a form of confident self-expression, showing that one is not afraid to stand out and be noticed,” says Dr. Yusim. “Confidence can contribute to attractiveness: when individuals feel confident and comfortable in their own skin, it can make them more appealing to others.”

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 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.

What does red nails mean personality? ›

“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.”

Does the red nail theory actually work? ›

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 nail trick? ›

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 good for confidence? ›

Red, for example, is associated with confidence, while tangerine orange boosts creativity and inspiration. Thus, painting your nails specific colors helps you harness that energy, while seeing those colors every day can impact your outlook—regardless of whether or not you even believe in manifestation.

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 do men think of red nails? ›

What are the implications of Red Nails Theory? Red Nails Theory is a theory that suggests that men are more likely to be attracted to women with red nails. The theory has been backed up by research, which shows that men find women with red nails more attractive than those with any other color nails.

What do pink nails mean on a girl? ›

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.

What nail color do guys like? ›

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 mean for personality? ›

If your favorite color is Red, your personality traits reveal that you are extroverted, optimistic, confident, courageous, action-oriented, and physically active. You may exude high levels of spontaneity and energy. You may be ambitious and an achiever.

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 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 is Bridget's red nail theory? ›

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.

What does one red painted fingernail mean? ›

Counterculture rock stars, such as David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, and Kurt Cobain, rebelled against gender norms by painting their fingernails, but the trend ended there until recently, when one Elliot Costello introduced the "Polished Man" campaign in which men with one painted fingernail on one hand represent the " ...

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