While cherry-red lacquers are like sirens at sea that attract and invite the attention of males, the White Nail Theory is more fodder in the cornucopia of colours that supposedly hint at one’s relationship, appeal, and availability. The Red Nail Theory might hold that the colour taps into the ‘male gaze’; but what about painting and polishing the nails white? Have you been sending out the wrong signals without knowing it? It’s a possibility. Here’s what your manicurist isn’t telling you.
Do Your Nails Have Anything To Do With Your Relationship Status?
The Red Nail Theory purports red as nostalgia-inducing and sensual. Many claim that it appeals to men because they’ve watched their mothers and similar female figures of authority (potentially teachers and celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn) sport the colour back in the day — while they were growing up. While this Freudian suggestion has amassed quite the cult following online, the numbers don’t quite add up (unless you’re exclusively talking about men in their 50s). But remember the colour has always been seen as sensual, passionate, and seductive. These associations can explain why the theory has been put to the test with a considerable success-rate, and why the colour can position you as more attractive (aka available) than someone with a neutral-toned manicure.
The White Nail Theory suggests that the colour white is a comment on your availability too. It indicates that you’re single. No suitor is in sight, and a man is free to approach you. While there is no science-backed evidence that supports this claim, many males on the Internet have confessed to the reputation of the colour. Think about how white has always been associated with ‘innocence’, ‘chastity’, and ‘purity’. Doesn’t that explain the connection a little? Talk about branding yourself as single with a simple nail-art trend!
There’s more, and this might interest those with a bias towards the colour blue. While red attracts and white comments on your availability, the Internet claims that a blue or light-blue manicure indicates that you’re in a relationship. It also goes on to suggest that your boyfriend/husband will almost always suggest you opt for the colour when asked for their input. Yup.
But, then, again, many of us are like Taylor Swift. Because we just want to go home to our cats after our long, long night regardless of our loved-up (or not) status. Or we just like white nail polish. No?
Featured Image: Instagram
