Women are over dad bods while men prefer curves, new study suggests
A new study indicates that women are moving away from the 'dad bod' trend, favoring leaner, athletic physiques instead. In contrast, men still prefer curvier body types in women, suggesting a divergence in attractiveness standards. The findings challenge the notion that social media ideals align with real-life preferences for body types.
- ▪Women are increasingly attracted to leaner, athletic builds rather than the 'dad bod'.
- ▪Men continue to prefer curvy physiques in women, favoring softer body types.
- ▪The study involved over 2,000 adults comparing body-fat images to determine attractiveness preferences.
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Sex & Relationships Women are over dad bods while men prefer curves, new study suggests By Marissa Matozzo Published May 18, 2026, 3:32 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The New York Post on Google Sorry, fellas — the era of the celebrated “dad bod” may be heading for the gym locker room. A new study suggests women are swiping left on softer physiques in favor of leaner, athletic builds more akin to actors Paul Mescal and Jacob Elordi than the beer-belly bravado once hailed as peak male attractiveness. But while men may be losing points for packing on extra padding, women aren’t being held to the same ultra-toned standard.
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