Playing with her clothes, which can include adjusting them or her hair, can sometimes indicate that a woman is attracted to someone nearby. According to research, this is a form of "preening and primping."
Preening and Priming as a Sign of Attraction
Monica M. Moore's study indicates that women often subtly signal attraction through their behavior. This includes adjusting clothing or hair. Unlike men, women tend to make the first move in more subtle ways.
- Subtle Signals: Adjusting clothing can be a way for a woman to draw attention to herself.
- Preening: Similar to how animals groom themselves to attract a mate, women may adjust their appearance when attracted to someone.
Examples of Playing with Clothes
Here are some examples of what "playing with clothes" might look like:
- Adjusting a neckline.
- Smoothing out a skirt.
- Fidgeting with a button.
- Twirling a strand of hair.
Why Women Use Subtle Signals
- Societal Norms: Historically, women have been expected to be more reserved in expressing interest.
- Testing the Waters: Subtle signals allow a woman to gauge a man's interest without being too forward.
While playing with clothes can be a sign of attraction, it can also be due to other factors, like discomfort with the clothing or simply a habit. It's important to consider the context and other nonverbal cues.
