6 Physical Traits That Grab Men’s Attention (According to Science)

The widely accepted myth that men find low waist-to-hip ratios (read: hourglass figure) attractive because it signals things like fertility and health may finally be debunked.

A study with findings from the journal Evolution and Human Behavior suggests that men are into this female figure because it's some reliable sign that the woman they're interested in is physically and sexually mature enough — and they're probably young and haven't been pregnant.  

For some reason, across cultures and around the world, the whole waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) thing (AKA hourglass figure) seems to be consistently noted as attractive in women — and often the theory is that it indicates fertility.

But research is suggesting it's not only heterosexual men that dig this WHR — homosexual men also note it as attractive — and it's less about fertility but more because this ideal WHR suggests a more optimal level of health — and potential for reproduction.

The other finding was that a higher WHR may suggest that the woman may have already reproduced — and one of the experts pointed out that men may not want to invest resources in another man's children (which is a terrible attitude to have, by the way).

Communication is key to any relationship — and there are certain vocal features in a person's voice that can make them more attractive. While women tend to dig deeper voices, men tend to prefer higher ones.

The sexual attraction born from hearing a certain pitch is linked to the body size it signals and "good" hormone balance.

Straight women often find themselves attracted to deeper voices in male partners as it may suggest higher testosterone levels and strength. The heterosexual man seems to prefer women with higher voices because it suggests youth — and they're subconsciously calculating all the "benefits" they may get from getting with a more youthful mate.

Men really do like shiny, healthy hair. (Don't we all?)

Long, luscious locks will reel in male attention, according to German scientists who found that men equate healthy hair with a woman's overall health and fertility.

Whether it's a product of great genetics, good nutrition, your amazing hair stylist or that new leave-in conditioner, having healthy hair implies that you have a healthy body (which may imply that you have the potential for reproduction).

Having problems growing out your locks? Check out our top 10 tricks to make hair grow faster.

Smiling is another attractive physical feature that men like — as you probably know because they love telling women to smile (and it's never appropriate). Studies show that women who smile more frequently are seen as more attractive to the other sex. It's also been reported that a lot of men view smiling as "subservient, weak and vulnerable." So, feel free to decline if you're asked to smile — after all, it's sexist and never necessary.

It's just just about smiling more:, having whiter teeth was also proven to be a factor in physical attraction. Let's be honest, good oral hygiene is attractive to everyone.

The natural look is in. According to research, men preferred women who wore up to 40 per cent less makeup than the average woman, like these celebrities who still manage to stun without makeup.

But, of course, if you feel better wearing whatever amount of makeup you like — don't modify your routine in attempts to attract some male statistic. You are perfect exactly as you are.

So, if you want to, forgo that heavy foundation, for a lighter, more natural look.

According to research, the colour red is said to enhance male attraction to women. Some cultures incorporate the colour in wedding rituals and some folks have been conditioned to connect the primary colour with romance — and Valentine's Day. It's a thing.

So, say yes to that red dress and catch some attention. A powerful red hue on your lips, nails and body is bold and beautiful, so rock it!