Can the "White Nail" Theory Really Impact Your Love Life?

Love it or hate it, what you wear will say a lot about you. And when you’re trying to make a first impression on that cutie you locked eyes with at the bar, well, everything counts, from your clothes to your manicure. Want a conversation starter that says “I’m approachable!”? Consider red nail theory. Looking for a way to boost your confidence? Maybe black nail theory is for you. And now, introducing “white nail theory.” Think of this as a subtle way of saying you’re single, available and interested. Here’s everything it can supposedly convey about your dating life. 

White nail theory is the idea that painting your nails any shade of white is an intentional way to communicate that you’re single, and there’s also the belief that men prefer this color.

Given the fact that we have dating app fatigue and that speed dating is in again, leaning into white nail theory can be a fun way to show that you’re interested and available. Though, it’s worth noting that if you give this a go, you’re probably most likely to attract people who are chronically online. As I dove into the TikTok hole of white nail polish, many comments sections were duking out what exactly painting your nails white signified—with many complaining that it was an overblown trend reading too deep into the simple act of painting your nails.

Regarding the idea that men prefer the color white—I can’t claim to have conducted a national poll on men’s color preferences for women (which honestly feels backwards in itself), but take it from this one viral video that ranks white first in a slew of other colors as proof enough. It’s worth noting that white, as a color, also denotes things like purity, innocence, cleanliness and new beginnings, per Sean Adams in The Designer’s Dictionary of Color. Many in the comments section of these videos have noted this as well, with one noting in the video above: “It seems like you’re more tan than you actually are” as an ancillary benefit.

Though white seems plain, make no mistake. Per Adams: “White stands out in a crowded visual environment. There are many variations of white, from off-white to cream white. The slightest addition of another color will shift the emotional temperature from cold to warm.” White, contrasted with dark colors or black, can also create drama. 

I would advise choosing a shade that, similar to metallics, complements your skin tone. If you’re warm, choose a warm white; if you’re cool, choose a colder variation. In the parlance of warm and cool, warm leans more golden, cool more blue. As far as outfits are concerned, you can never go wrong with a demure, monochrome look, but as Adams notes, this is a great opportunity to create some drama as well. I’d suggest the colors of the season: navy and burgundy. Now, it’s time to hit the (wine) bar.