Red is no longer the hottest colour: Dating game is changing, relationship expert reveals what's driving men crazy

For decades, red has dominated as the go-to colour for turning heads and sparking attraction. From classic red lips to that show-stopping dress, it has been the shade that women reach for when they want to make an impression but according to relationship experts, the dating game is changing and so are the colours that catch men's eyes.

In an interview with the Times of India, Emily Conway, relationship expert at Dragon Toys, shared, “Red has always been powerful, but we're seeing a real shift toward colours that feel more approachable and emotionally resonant. Men are increasingly drawn to shades that suggest warmth, comfort and authenticity rather than pure intensity.”

Did you know that mood-lifting colours like soft blue, blush pink and rust orange are now leading the charge in romantic appeal? Read on as we break down the five emerging shades that are rewriting the rules of attraction and why they are working.

Soft blues are having a major moment in the dating world

Forget the stereotype that blue is cold or distant. Soft, powder blues are having a major moment in the dating world and for good reason. This shade projects calm confidence and emotional openness, two qualities men find incredibly attractive in potential partners. “Soft blue creates an immediate sense of trust and tranquility,” said Conway. “It's less about demanding attention and more about inviting connection. Men respond to it because it feels genuine and approachable, not performative.” Whether it's a flowing blouse or a casual sweater, soft blue works particularly well for daytime dates like coffee meetings or weekend brunches, where the vibe is relaxed and ‘getting-to-know-you’.

Blush pink can feel playful

Move over hot pink. Blush is where it's at. This delicate, romantic shade strikes the perfect balance between feminine and subtle. Unlike bolder pinks that can feel playful or youthful, blush pink has a sophisticated warmth that men find magnetic. “Blush pink signals softness without being overly sweet,” Conway explained. “It has this understated elegance that draws people in. Men see it as romantic but not trying too hard, which is a winning combination for first impressions.” This shade shines during evening dates. Think dinner reservations or cocktail bars where the lighting enhances its flattering glow.

Sage green: A dark horse in the attraction game

Earthy, grounding and unexpectedly sexy, sage green is emerging as a dark horse in the attraction game. This muted green has a natural, effortless quality that men find refreshing in a world of overly curated looks. “Sage green reads as authentic and down-to-earth,” said Conway.

“It suggests someone who's comfortable in their own skin, which is incredibly appealing. There's something about earth tones that feels real and unpretentious.” Sage works beautifully for outdoor dates, such as farmers market strolls, park picnics, or casual weekend activities where the setting complements the organic vibe of the colour.

Rust orange for creative dates

Warm, vibrant and full of personality, rust orange is quickly becoming a favourite for women who want to stand out without screaming for attention. This rich, autumn-inspired shade radiates confidence and creativity. “Rust orange has this perfect balance of energy and warmth,” Conway noted. “It's bold enough to be memorable but earthy enough to feel inviting. Men are drawn to it because it suggests someone who's interesting and unafraid to be different.” This colour works particularly well for creative dates like art gallery openings, live music venues or anywhere with a laid-back, artistic atmosphere.

Men find grey-black compelling

Dark, moody and undeniably sophisticated, grey-black offers an alternative to stark black that feels more nuanced and intriguing. This deep charcoal shade has a mysterious quality that men find compelling. “Grey-black is all about subtle intensity,” said Conway. “It's sophisticated without being severe, mysterious without being unapproachable. Men respond to the elegance and the hint of something deeper to discover.”
It’s perfect for evening dates with a more intimate setting, from wine bars and upscale lounges to dinner dates where you want to create an air of intrigue.

She concluded with the suggestion, “When choosing colours for dates, think about the message you want to send and the setting you'll be in. Soft blues and blush pinks work beautifully for daytime encounters where you want to project warmth and approachability. Save your sage greens for outdoor activities where the natural vibe enhances the connection. For evening dates, rust orange adds personality to creative venues, while grey-black brings sophistication to intimate settings. The key is matching the colour to both the environment and your authentic self. Men can sense when you're comfortable in what you're wearing, and that confidence is more attractive than any specific shade. Don't abandon red entirely, but think of these new colours as expanding your romantic wardrobe.”