Yes, research suggests that larger eyes are generally considered attractive on women. This isn't simply a matter of personal preference; there's scientific evidence and cultural support for this perception.
Scientific Basis for Attraction
A study found that larger irises, which make eyes appear bigger, are associated with increased attractiveness. 1 This isn't solely due to increased color; the larger irises themselves contribute to perceived attractiveness. Furthermore, research indicates that facial attractiveness is directly influenced by eyebrows and indirectly by eye characteristics, with larger eyes tending to increase attractiveness. 2
Evolutionary and Cultural Perspectives
The appeal of large eyes may also have evolutionary roots. Large eyes are considered a "neonatal feature," characteristics associated with babies. Since these features evoke feelings of youth and fertility, they're often perceived as attractive in women. 3 This aligns with the observation that the preference for large eyes is often more pronounced in women than men. 4 5 6 This is reflected in popular culture, such as cartoons and anime, where characters often feature exaggeratedly large eyes. 7
Additional Considerations
While there's a general trend favoring larger eyes, individual preferences vary. The overall attractiveness of eyes is also influenced by other features, like shape, color, and the surrounding facial features.
