The Red Dress Effect is a “phenomenon in which people wearing red clothing, such as a red dress, are perceived to be more sexually appealing.” – Wikipedia.
We all love a good red dress for special occasions whether it’s a party or a date. And with good reason! Biologically speaking there are reasons which explain why men are more drawn to women dressed in red.
– THE RED DRESS EFFECT –
BIOLOGICAL EXPLANATIONS
“In the wild, when many species of non-human primate females become fertile, their estrogen level rises, which causes their blood vessels to open up, leading to redness on the skin… This increase in redness has been shown to attract male counterparts, expressed by their increased activity in sex, self-stimulation, and attention towards the females. Therefore, there are reasons to believe of the existence of evolutionary instincts that associate red with fertility.” – Wikipedia, “The Red Dress Effect”
Furthermore, a number of more recent studies also confirm the fact that men tend to think women who are wearing red as more attractive or sexually open. Okay, so it seems like it’s all about sex. But maybe not all of us who like to wear red identify with Samantha from Sex and the City.
COLOR PSYCHOLOGY
I actually think there’s a lot more to the Red Dress Effect than just sex and biological tendencies. In terms of color psychology, red also represents confidence, energy, independence and sometimes competence. A study conducted by Central China Normal University showed 280 heterosexual men 32 photos of women wearing different color clothing. The results show that men are more physically attracted to women in red. However, “In addition, regardless of sexual dimorphism cues, male participants rated women with red as warmer and more competent.” (Source)
IF YOU ASK ME…
Personally, I just love red and feel naturally drawn to it. It represents passion, fire, good luck (in Chinese culture) and fierce love. Whilst I may seem icy cold on the outside (as I’ve been told by many friends – ah, the woes of having a resting bitchy face), these are most certainly things I am drawn to and stand for. Red is also a warning sign of danger, which I do not particularly shy away from either ; )
Today’s photos were taken at One Madison. This gorgeous one bedroom apartment features state of the art appliances and has a gorgeous view of Madison Square Park. If you are interested it is on sale now at:
http://www.corcoran.com/nyc/Listings/Display/3684958
| Photography by Austin Donohue |
| Still Life Photography by Wei Chia Huang |
Perfect Red Party Dress from Topshop (Similar here)
Clutch by YSL
Shoes by Miu Miu (Similar here)
Bracelet by Momo’s March
J12 Watch & Earrings by Chanel
– SHOP MY OUTFIT –
SHOP MY PICKS OF RED DRESSES
Read more of my “red” posts below and let me know if the Red Dress Effect is true or not ; )
