Science confirms: striking a contrapposto pose makes you more attractive

A study by psychologist Farid Pazhoohi from the University of British Columbia, published in Archives of Sexual Behavior, has found that the contrapposto pose—a classical sculptural stance where weight is shifted onto one leg, creating an S-curve—is perceived as more attractive. The research shows that both men and women find this posture appealing, with men showing a stronger preference. Pazhoohi explains that this intuitive understanding has been used by artists for centuries, from Polykleitos's Doryphoros to the Riace Bronzes and Michelangelo's David, and is also evident in modern contexts like runway modeling and belly dancing. The study suggests that high heels accentuate the pose, making it appear more attractive.