Researchers from a prominent California university conducted a study focused on perceptions of female hip shapes and their attractiveness. The findings indicate that hips that are not excessively large tend to be viewed as more appealing, with a waist-to-hip ratio around 0.65 highlighted as particularly favorable. The study’s details appeared in reports cited by Daily Mail.
In the survey, roughly 1,100 participants were asked to evaluate eight digitally created images showing a range of hip shapes and sizes. They then indicated which picture they found most attractive. The participants largely preferred hips of medium size, and in the presented image, the waist appeared to be 65 percent of the hip measurement. About 44 percent of respondents selected this configuration as their preferred option.
Following the leading choice, larger hips that visually harmonized with the rest of the torso received a secondary level of support. In this scenario, the waist circumference accounted for about 60 percent of the hip circumference. Portrayals with extreme body proportions—very large hips paired with a slim waist—ranked lower in popularity. A known American plastic surgeon weighed in, noting that such extreme ratios do not feel natural to a broad portion of the audience.
Across the results, the study reported no obvious differences in preferences when comparing different age groups, ethnic backgrounds, or genders. In other words, the general appeal of mid-sized hips with a balanced waist appears stable across diverse participant groups.
Earlier surveys have highlighted other perceptions as well. Some analyses have pointed to a perception of the male hip as a standard of ideal proportions in certain contexts, illustrating how preferences can shift depending on cultural framing and evolving beauty norms.
When interpreting these findings, it is important to consider the role of societal standards and media representation in shaping how bodies are viewed. The study contributes to a broader conversation about beauty ideals, body image, and the variability of preferences among different populations. Researchers emphasize that attractiveness is influenced by a combination of visual cues, proportional relationships, and individual differences, rather than a single metric. The results underscore how statistical patterns can reflect shared preferences while allowing for a wide spectrum of individual tastes and cultural influences. Throughout this discussion, the emphasis remains on understanding perception rather than prescribing a universal standard of beauty, and stakeholders are encouraged to approach body image with nuance and respect for diversity across communities in North America and beyond (Loma Linda University study, cited in Daily Mail).