Infinite information is out there on fashion and what makes certain trends so appealing, which colours are best to wear, which pieces make the biggest impact. It’s no secret that we’re fascinated by the psychology behind our sartorial obsessions—and making style choices backed by science is what any savvy woman should do. But with so many facts and findings floating around the Internet, it’s hard to apply it all to your real-life look.
To make it easier, WhoWhatWear compiled a list of five items that will make you instantly more attractive—all based on studies and surveys conducted by legitimate research teams. See these must-haves below, plus two more essentials we thought the list was incomplete without.
1. Heels
According to this study published in the Archives of Sexual Behaviour, not only was heel height found to be directly proportional to a woman’s attractiveness to men, but men were increasingly likely to exhibit helpful behaviour and to spontaneously approach a woman the higher her heels were.
2. The Little Black Dress
Black has been determined by many sources to be the number-one colour associated with characteristics such as sexiness, confidence, and intelligence.
3. Shoulder-Baring Styles
Thought breasts and butts were the only features men cared about? Think again. Researchers at the University of New South Wales discovered that men were highly attracted to women’s shoulders and arms.
4. Something Red
The colour of passion, love and romance is a favourite of men for women and of women for themselves. Surprise, surprise. The Journal of Personality and Social Psychology just made official what we already knew.
5. A Bodycon Silhouette
While long limbs (as indicated above) are still high on the list of attractors, there’s no denying the seductive appeal of a buxom hourglass figure. A paper published in the Archives of Sexual Behaviour indicates that women with larger bust-to-waist and waist-to-hip ratios tend to catch men’s eyes faster and keep their gaze longer than their longer, lankier girlfriends. If you have those Kim Kardashian curves, flaunt them.
6. Lipstick
On a bad day, there’s always lipstick. Nothing provides the instant pick-me-up quite like a swipe of your signature shade—and apparently others will respond to it, too. Researchers at a French university found that waitresses who wore red lipstick saw boosted tips from male customers. Similarly, a study conducted by Boston University women wearing a moderate application of makeup were perceived as more attractive, competent, and trustworthy.
7. Sunglasses
While not technically supported by any official study (that we know of), every fashion girl knows the power of a good pair of shades for making her look put-together and hiding tired eyes. Not to mention adding a touch of mystery and intrigue that’s guaranteed to turn heads.
