A recent study by EZContacts, based on a nationally representative survey of 1,000 single or actively dating Americans in August 2025, reveals how eyewear shapes attraction, confidence, and even political perceptions in modern dating. The findings highlight evolving attitudes that challenge old stereotypes.

Findings on attraction and perception

The survey found that 58% of respondents believe glasses make someone more attractive, countering the idea that they detract from appeal. Men were more likely than women to find glasses appealing, with 69% expressing attraction compared with 46% of women. In dating apps, 44% of men said they would swipe right on glasses-wearers, nearly double the 24% of women.

Eye contact also proved significant. 59% of respondents rated it as more intimate than physical touch, with 62% of women and 55% of men agreeing.

Cultural and style preferences

Cultural differences emerged in attitudes toward eyewear. Hispanic (72%) and Black (69%) respondents were more likely than White respondents (49%) to find glasses attractive. Only 6% disliked glasses altogether.

Preferences also varied by frame style. Tortoiseshell was most attractive to women, while men leaned toward transparent or clear frames. Oversized fashion frames ranked lowest. Classic black frames projected seriousness and confidence, while bold and colourful styles signalled playfulness. Aviators split opinion, loved by some but disliked by others, while cat-eye frames appealed to niche audiences.

Self-image and dating behaviour

Despite growing acceptance, many glasses-wearers still reported hiding them in dating contexts. Forty-one percent removed them from dating app photos, 17% avoided them on in-person dates, and nearly one in three switched to contacts instead. Non-White respondents, particularly Asians (over 80%), were most likely to choose appearance over practicality.

This self-consciousness may not be necessary. Overall, 35% of singles were more likely to swipe right on glasses-wearers, with men (45%) showing greater acceptance than women (26%).

Political cues through eyewear

Eyewear styles even carried political associations. Respondents linked bold or retro round frames with liberals, while classic black, aviators, and rimless styles were tied to conservatives. Tortoiseshell frames remained largely neutral. These subtle cues align with broader findings from a 2025 NPR survey, which reported that more than 60% of young adults prefer partners with similar political views.

Tips for glasses-wearers

• For men: Classic black or tortoiseshell frames provide wide appeal, while rimless styles suggest confidence. Contacts may help with first impressions, since women were less likely to find glasses attractive.
• For women: Glasses can be an asset, with 69% of men attracted to them. Transparent or tortoiseshell frames are especially popular, while oversized styles were rated least appealing.

Looking ahead

The study shows that eyewear is more than a fashion choice. Glasses convey personality, confidence, and even values, while eye contact remains a powerful force in forging connections. As dating continues to evolve, these visual cues play a lasting role in how people are perceived and how they connect.