Physical attraction plays a big role in what girls find attractive in guys. However, it is not the only factor. Personality, confidence, sense of humor, shared interests and more all influence attraction. This article explores the main things that girls look for when determining if a guy is attractive.
Looks and Physical Appearance
While looks are not everything, physical appearance does matter when it comes to initial attraction. There are some physical traits that girls tend to find universally attractive in guys:
- Facial symmetry – Faces that are more symmetrical are considered more attractive. This indicates good genes and development.
- Clear skin – Good skin condition is seen as a sign of health and good hygiene.
- Muscular/athletic build – An athletic physique indicates strength, fitness and discipline.
- Broad shoulders – Shoulder breadth is linked to strength which can be desirable.
- Height – Taller stature is often viewed as more attractive for men.
- Strong jawline – A defined jawline and chin are seen as masculine features.
However, it is important to note that preferences for height, build, and other physical features vary quite a bit between different girls. While some traits may be widely desired, there is a range of looks that girls can find attractive.
Grooming and Style
How a guy presents and grooms himself also influences his attractiveness. Good hygiene and styling show that a guy puts effort into his appearance. Elements like hair, clothing and scent matter for making a good impression.
- Good hygiene – Showering, deodorant, brushing teeth and general cleanliness.
- Hair – Styled hair (not necessarily short or long) can look put-together.
- Clothing style – Well-fitting, stylish clothes in line with current fashions.
- Scent – Pleasant natural scent or cologne in moderation.
Of course, grooming standards depend on culture and context. The key is looking well put-together and presentable in a way that aligns with the guy’s personality and lifestyle.
Face and Expressiveness
Facial features also influence perceptions of attractiveness. Expressions and emotions displayed through the face can be attractive or unattractive.
- Eye contact – Maintaining eye contact shows confidence.
- Smile – A genuine smile is widely appealing.
- Strong eyebrows – Can be striking and masculine.
- Facial hair – Stubble and beards suit some, clean shaven suits others.
More importantly, having an expressive face allows a guy to display emotions and reactions. Seeing genuine smiles, laughs, intrigue and empathy on a guy’s face can draw girls in. Just like facial symmetry, expressiveness signals attractiveness at a biological level.
Body Language and Movement
How a guy carries himself and moves his body impacts his attractiveness as well. Masculine, confident and intentional body language is generally most appealing.
- Good posture – Standing and sitting straight with shoulders back.
- Taking up space – Displaying comfort taking up room.
- Deep voice – A deeper voice is seen as masculine.
- Making eye contact – Showing interest through eye contact.
- Appearing relaxed – Moving in a calm, comfortable way.
On the other hand, nervous tics, fidgeting, slouching or crossed arms can undermine attractiveness. Body language significantly influences others’ perceptions.
Confidence
Confidence is one of the most attractive traits a guy can have. How a guy carries himself communicates self-assurance and certainty in his worth.
Signs of confidence include:
- Making eye contact
- Upright, open posture
- Assertive body language and movements
- Willingness to take up space
- Deep steady voice
- Decisiveness in words and actions
However, there is a difference between confidence and arrogance. True confidence does not need to be cocky or put others down. It is enough to believe in one’s own self-worth and act accordingly.
Masculinity
Masculine energy is widely accepted as attractive in men. Traits like strength, courage, leadership and assertiveness are classically masculine.
Ways guys can showcase masculinity include:
- Displaying physical strength or athleticism
- Being decisive and direct
- Speaking deeply from the chest
- Exuding confidence in actions
- Taking on leadership roles
- Being chivalrous – opening doors, paying for dates, etc.
Of course, embracing traditionally feminine traits like nurturing or sensitivity can also make a man more attractive. The key is having a strong sense of identity and purpose.
Humor
Having a good sense of humor is attractive to most girls. Laughing and enjoying each other’s company builds connection. Funny guys come across as sharp and socially intelligent.
Types of humor girls might appreciate include:
- Playful teasing and banter
- Witty, silly jokes and anecdotes
- Self-deprecating humor
- Sarcasm and hyperbole when used tactfully
- Knowing funny memes and pop culture references
- Funny facial expressions and impressions
Humor should never be mean-spirited, make others uncomfortable or undermine one’s own dignity. Tactfully done, though, it makes interactions more lively and enjoyable.
Social Skills
Having good social awareness and skills is very attractive. Girls want a guy who can initiate conversations confidently, express himself, read social cues, listen well, and make others feel comfortable.
Traits of good social skills:
- Starting conversations confidently
- Asking questions and listening intently
- Expressing thoughts and feelings articulately
- Reading body language and social cues
- Paying sincere compliments
- Introducing people in groups
- Speaking for the quiet people in groups
Navigating varied social situations smoothly indicates emotional intelligence and likability.
Shared Interests and Values
Having shared interests, passions and values with a girl naturally creates connection and attraction. Compatibility strengthens bonds and establishes common ground.
Some examples include:
- Hobbies – Sports, arts, gaming, reading, etc.
- Causes – Volunteering, activism, politics, environment, etc.
- Tastes – Food, music, movies, travel, etc.
- Beliefs – Religious, philosophical, cultural, etc.
- Goals – Career, self-improvement, creative, athletic, etc.
- Personality traits – Outgoing, curious, silly, adventurous, etc.
The more overlapping interests and compatibility there are, the more likely mutual attraction can develop through bonding over enjoyable shared experiences.
Emotional Maturity
Maturity is an attractive quality at any age. Girls appreciate guys who are self-aware, thoughtful, respectful and emotionally intelligent.
Signs of maturity include:
- Self-awareness and reflection
- Ability to identify and process feelings
- Taking responsibility for actions
- Respecting different perspectives
- Communicating needs and boundaries
- Managing conflict thoughtfully
- Not taking rejection personally
- Living with purpose and integrity
Maturity does not always correlate with age. An older guy can be immature, while some younger guys demonstrate wisdom beyond their years. Maturity comes through concerted self-development.
Independence and Self-Assurance
Girls are drawn to guys who are independently secure and fulfilled. Having passions, goals and friendships outside of a relationship is healthy and attractive.
Traits of an independent, well-rounded guy include:
- Having personal hobbies and interests
- Setting and pursuing career/self-improvement goals
- Spending quality time with friends
- Comfortable being alone and self-sufficient
- Communicating needs and boundaries
- Able to resolve conflicts maturely
- Passionate about causes or beliefs
A girl does not want to be the sole focus of a guy’s life. Having self-assurance and fulfillment shows value, confidence and discipline – very attractive qualities.
Drive and Ambition
Being passionate and ambitious is attractive to many girls. Having drive and determination shows courage, discipline and capability.
Ambition can be displayed through:
- Working hard to advance a career
- Setting challenging self-improvement goals
- Training to master a skill or sport
- Working diligently on creative or intellectual projects
- Overcoming adversity and setbacks
- Vocalizing dreams and aspirations
- Making plans and taking steps to achieve aims
Girls appreciate a guy who is hungry to make the most of his talents and abilities. However, drive should not lead to burnout. Pacing oneself and making room for rest is essential.
Intelligence and Wit
Many girls find intelligence and sharp wit appealing in a guy. Quick thinking demonstrates mental acuity which can be captivating.
Signs of intelligence and wit include:
- Carrying interesting, intellectual conversations
- Sharing unique insights and perspectives
- Understanding complex concepts
- Creativity and vision in arts or sciences
- Capability to think through problems
- Being well-read and knowledgeable
- Using vocabulary and language precisely
- Memory and recall for facts and events
However, arrogance and pretentiousness are unappealing. Intelligence should be worn humbly. Additionally, emotional and social smarts are just as important as more academic forms of intellect.
Caring Traits
While confidence and drive are attractive, a softer side also appeals to many girls. Traits like compassion, sensitivity and nurturing demonstrate goodness.
Caring traits include:
- Listening patiently and attentively
- Offering sincere compliments and praise
- Displaying empathy and compassion
- Genuine concern for others’ wellbeing
- Gentleness and tenderness
- Love for animals and children
- Protectiveness towards loved ones
- Comforting others when distressed
In a world that can be cold and isolating, a man’s warmth and care for others is profoundly attractive. It shows maturity, principles and depth of character.
Courage and Resilience
Girls respect guys who display courage in the face of adversity as well as resilience when faced with setbacks. Standing for one’s values displays admirable strength of character.
Courage can be shown by:
- Taking ethical stands even when difficult
- Protecting those who are vulnerable
- Saying no to unfair demands
- Admitting mistakes and apologizing
- Taking smart risks and leaving one’s comfort zone
- Defending oneself and loved ones from harm
Meanwhile, resilience emerges in how one recovers from hardship and failure:
- Seeing setbacks as learning opportunities
- Acknowledging feelings but not being overcome
- Asking for help when needed
- Staying motivated despite rejection or obstacles
- Believing in one’s own abilities and worth
- Having sources of renewal like exercise or nature
Strength used protectively and productively is admirable.
Passion and Enthusiasm
Seeing a guy light up when talking about something he loves is highly attractive. Passion shows vitality, motivation and joy.
Girls love seeing passion for:
- Creative pursuits like art, music or writing
- Sports and physical activities
- Causes like volunteering and activism
- Learning and intellectual discovery
- Gaming and fandoms
- Work pursuits and entrepreneurial ventures
- Faith, ethical principles and cultural identity
When communicating passion, body language and tone of voice convey excitement as much as words. Enthusiasm is contagious and draws people in.
Purpose and Growth Mindset
Living intentionally is attractive. Having a sense of purpose and forward momentum in life shows proactivity and forethought.
Purpose can stem from:
- Career or calling goals
- Creative or athletic aspirations
- Personal growth and self-improvement
- Seeking new experiences and perspectives
- Helping others through volunteering or mentorship
- Living according to beliefs and values
- Raising children and providing for family
Relatedly, viewing life as a learning journey signals wisdom and humility. With a growth mindset, one is always seeking to improve through effort. This fosters resilience.
Financial Responsibility
Handling money wisely is an attractive quality in a romantic partner. Financial disputes often strain relationships, so responsibility sets a strong foundation.
Signs of money management ability:
- Living within means
- Paying bills and debts on time
- Saving and investing where possible
- Working to support oneself
- Avoiding unnecessary risks or gambling
- Generosity within limits of budget
A lavish lifestyle is less important than wisdom, planning and discipline in finances. This demonstrates prudence and capability that relationship partners rely on.
Conclusion
No single trait makes a man attractive on its own. Girls appreciate a constellation of qualities that combine to form style, personality and character. From physical appearance to emotional intelligence, many subtle factors influence attractiveness.
While surface qualities like height and muscles matter to an extent, developing one’s confidence, maturity, ambitions and principles is just as powerful. Attraction stems from who a guy is at his core. Rather than fixating on flaws or insecurities, focusing on continuous self-development and fulfillment fosters the most attractive traits.
At the end of the day, different women have different preferences. The key is becoming one’s best self, playing to inherent strengths and being comfortable expressing personality. Mutual understanding and chemistry cannot be forced. By embracing self-assurance and going after what he wants authentically, a man gives himself the best chance of making a strong impression and finding compatibility.