A recent conversation with friends got us talking about the differences between men and women’s ideal vision of beauty in their own gender. While many women would kill for the beauty and elegance of icons such as Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, most men would prefer the Jolies and Foxes of the world. Same goes for women. A lot of guys think that a Schwarzenegger body will lead to female admirers but every single woman I know would gladly trade the Governator for someone like Hayden Christensen. The idea isn’t to make you go against your style principles but if you wish to attract women, a little open-mindedness can’t hurt…

The Prep

The character of Chuck Bass has put preppy style back on the map ever since he first appeared on hit TV show Gossip Girl. The modern day gentleman proved to all sceptics out there that preppy could also be manly. This regal style also has a boyish charm to it, which women find irresistible. And you don’t have to be an Ivy League student or a Country Club member to pull it off; all you need is a few key pieces – college blazers, tennis sweaters, rugby shirts, khakis, etc. Turn to Brooks Brothers catalogue for further inspiration.

Beware of the Carlton Banks look: high waist pants and shirts buttoned up to the neck.

The Nerd

Women love nerds. They really do. The high school fairy tale of the cheerleader going out with the loser isn’t pure fantasy. Perhaps it’s the works of our motherly instinct but we definitely have a thing for the underdog – it’s the only explanation for Michael Cera’s extraordinary rise to Hollywood royalty. Yet some men are reluctant to adhere to the current nerdy trends; this must be due to some obscure quarterback complex… Be confident, say yes to thick rim glasses, vintage cardigans and videogames t-shirts, and you’ll surely score points with the female team.

Beware of the Bill Gates look: cellphone attached to belt, too-short hem pants, etc.

The Disheveled

Women are complicated; we want a man that looks good without looking like he tries too hard. The Italians have a word specifically for that: sprezzatura. It means “artful dishevelment” and suggests that men should never look too perfect. My boyfriend is clueless to why I prefer a light stubble beard to a close shave or a messed up shirt collar to a crisply pleated one… It’s the unstudied nonchalance of that look that makes it so appealing; it’s all about contrast. With this carefree style, accessorizing is also key to showing off your personality – colourful scarves, beaded and leather bracelets, etc.

Beware of the Pete Doherty look: Kate Moss’s infamous ex-boyfriend’s rags and unkept allure could easily have him mistaken for a demented hobo.