TRACEY COX reveals the 11 qualities of all sexy people - so which do you have?
- Tracey Cox says sex appeal is less about looks and all about attitude and aura
- READ MORE: What's really driving the 'sex recession'?
What makes someone sexy?
Good question! After all, what's sexy to one person is 'Are you kidding?' to another.
But all of us have a subconscious 'sexy' radar which automatically tunes in to people who've got 'it'.
Our looks radar sets off first – instantly scanning for the best-looking person in the crowd – then the sexy radar clicks in, looking for more subtle (and surer) indicators that someone's worth talking to.
Ultimately, sex appeal is less about looks and all about attitude and aura: being happy with what you've got and who you are.
Which is why the top thing that makes someone sexy is this…
According to sex and relationships expert Tracey Cox, sex appeal is less about looks and all about attitude and aura: being happy with what you've got and who you are (stock image)
1. They like sex
If you love sex and love people, you're probably sexy.
People who enjoy sex are on a permanent subconscious (and conscious) alert - on the lookout for sexy people and sexy things wherever they are.
When you see someone who fits the bill, your eyes let them know you find them attractive – even if the wedding ring on your finger stops you acting on it.
Being noticed and admired gets people's attention fast – and even if they aren't physically attracted to the person giving it, they'll take a second look to see if there's something they're missing.
A high sex drive is often the secret behind 'ugly sexy' appeal. The reason why some people, who don't fit society's expectation of good-looking, still get lots of attention.
The hunger and appreciation that's evident in their eyes is the magic ingredient that doesn't rely on physical appearance.
2. They're enthusiastic
It's infectious – you can't help but smile and respond to someone who's full of life.
It doesn't really matter what it is you're passionate about, so long as you're throwing your arms around and getting excited about something.
As one guy put it, 'The girl in the corner whose facial expression doesn't change and talks in a monotone isn't appealing, even if she is discussing how to give a great BJ.
'It's the girl who's gesturing madly and talking a million miles an hour who you want. Even if she's discussing what colour to paint her bathroom.'
Tracey Cox (pictured) believes that people who love sex and love people are almost always sexy
3. Both sides of them match
The more symmetrical your face and body, the more sexually attractive you are, and the more attention you get.
It's not brainwashing by society either – even babies go ga-ga for symmetry.
Far more manipulative than social media is Mother Nature: she consistently protects the health of the species by making sure that those from the strongest gene pool (like the symmetrical) are seen as the most attractive.
While no body is ever truly symmetrical, appearing 'matched' helps immeasurably.
Female bodies are programmed to appear 30 per cent more symmetrical on the magical high-conception day after ovulation.
People with symmetrical bodies usually lose their virginity much younger and have more sexual partners than their lopsided friends.
4. They're comfortable with their body
If you don't feel sexy, you're certainly not going to ooze sex appeal to anyone else.
People who don't like their body do their best to hide as much of it as possible. Their shoulders hunch forward, their head drops down, their arms cross to hide their stomach. Sounds attractive, right? Not.
No-one is totally happy with their body but people who embrace their good bits and don't get too paranoid about the bad, exude self-assurance. Their body language is relaxed, open and inviting and self-acceptance sends out a sexy vibe.
5. They make you feel like you're the only person in the room
The ability to focus exclusively on the person you're with, without glancing behind them, checking your phone or getting distracted in any way is a dying skill.
This is why, when someone's eyes don't move from your face, the recipient feels intoxicated by the laser-sharp attention. The person who looks you directly in the eye, really listens, calls you by your name and focuses on what you're saying wins every time.
Master this and you'll beat the better-looking competition hands down.
When it comes to our bodies, those who embrace their good bits and don't get too paranoid about the bad, exude self-assurance - which is sexy (stock image)
6. They've got a big mouth
Sex obsessed creatures which we are, anything which reminds us of sex usually gets us going.
A woman with full, glossy, red lips is a turn-on because her lips mimic what (he fantasises anyway) is hopefully happening elsewhere: the vagina also 'plumps', moistens and darkens in colour when aroused.
7. They're authentic
They know who they are and are proud of it. A person who isn't scared to express an opinion even if it's the opposite to everyone else's, might be called opinionated, arrogant or even rude, but there's one thing they'll never be branded – boring.
Stick up for your beliefs and believe in yourself. We all respect and admire people who hold their head up and fight their own battles.
According to Tracey Cox, a woman with full, glossy, red lips is a turn-on because her lips mimic what (he fantasises anyway) is hopefully happening elsewhere: the vagina also 'plumps', moistens and darkens in colour when aroused
8. They're flexible
Ever seen someone get up from sitting for a while and walking away with stiff legs? Not exactly a turn-on is it?
It's not something you instantly think about when questioning what makes someone sexy, but flexibility is what makes people appear to 'walk young'.
Moving with fluidity is associated with physical fitness and good health which are biologically linked to attractiveness.
People who are flexible tend to have better posture which sends a signal of self-assurance – confidence is another key factor in sex appeal.
9. They play it cool (but not too cool)
When someone tells us we're hot, funny or clever, it has the optimum effect the first time it's said.
Keep harping on about it and you not only dilute the compliment, you'll get the opposite reaction to the one intended.
Instead of liking you, the person will find you annoying.
10. They touch a lot
Never, ever underestimate the power of touch. The person who really hugs hello, who puts a concerned hand on your arm if you're upset, gives a firm handshake to say 'Congratulations!', is making warm, sexy gestures that make them seem approachable.
If you want to connect with someone – instantly – there is no better way to do it than through touch. The briefest, tiniest touch can have an electric effect on how somebody feels about you.
If you're stingy with your affection, others assume you're cold, hard to get to know, uptight. None of which are adjectives you want applied to you, right?
Money usually means the person is well-dressed, well-groomed, physically healthy and educated, which often equates to high sex appeal (stock image)
11. They're rich
No surprises here. It might not lead to happiness but it sure as hell makes you more sexually attractive.
Why? For starters, financial success boosts self-esteem and confidence, traits that are universally attractive.
Money usually means the person is well-dressed, well-groomed, physically healthy and educated. They're able to do sexy things: like surprise you with first-class tickets to the hottest party in Ibiza, a booking at the sexiest, most coveted new restaurant.
Wealth is associated with high social status – and power is the ultimate aphrodisiac for some! Success usually means the person is ambitious, another personality trait that adds to their appeal.
- You'll find Tracey's product ranges, Edge and Supersex, at lovehoney.co.uk. For her podcast, more info about sex and relationships and her books, visit traceycox.com.
