Top 10 insights about the “girlfriend effect” trend on TikTok—a phenomenon where men reportedly become more attractive after getting a girlfriend.
Table of Contents
1. What Is the “Girlfriend Effect”?
The “girlfriend effect” refers to a noticeable improvement in a man’s appearance or fashion sense after he starts dating someone.
This theory suggests that men tend to adopt a more refined style, gain confidence, and even experience a “glow-up” due to their relationship.
This glow-up can include a wardrobe upgrade, an improved skincare routine, and even a more defined physique.
The transformation is often credited to the positive influence of a girlfriend, who encourages these changes.
This viral phenomenon first gained attention when TikTok users began posting side-by-side photos showing men before and after they entered relationships.
The results were striking: baggy jeans were swapped for fitted ones, t-shirts were replaced by stylish jackets, and timid postures turned into confident poses.
The videos often depict the girlfriend’s influence as a positive force that improves her partner’s style and overall attractiveness.
2. Where Did the Girlfriend Effect Come From?
The “girlfriend effect” trend is widely considered a response to the “boyfriend air” phenomenon, another TikTok trend.
In early 2023, women began sharing experiences of feeling less attractive after spending time with their boyfriends, attributing their dip in appearance to “boyfriend air” — the humorous idea that men somehow influence women to look less put together in casual settings.
In contrast, the girlfriend effect shows the opposite: men appear more stylish and attractive after finding a girlfriend.
This trend has led to TikTok users—girlfriends and boyfriends alike—sharing these posts to illustrate how relationships can boost a man’s appearance.
3. The Viral Nature of the Girlfriend Effect
Videos showcasing the girlfriend effect have garnered millions of views. Girlfriends take pride in their perceived influence on their partner’s transformation.
Some even see it as an endearing symbol of the positive changes that love can bring.
4. Is the Girlfriend Effect Real?
While the “girlfriend effect” has gone viral on social media, many wonder if there is truth behind it. In reality, when two people get into a relationship, they often try to impress and look attractive to each other.
This mutual desire can lead to changes in personal grooming and style.
Long-term relationships also tend to encourage partners to adopt each other’s habits and tastes, which could explain why some men develop a better sense of fashion after entering a relationship.
5. The Science Behind Couples Influencing Each Other
Evidence shows that couples tend to influence each other’s preferences over time.
Research suggests that people often mirror their partners’ behavior, values, and appearance.
In the case of the girlfriend effect, a man whose girlfriend loves fashion might naturally become more interested in improving his style simply by spending time with her.
However, it is also essential to recognize that the girlfriend effect only happens to some.
Some men might maintain their unique style or change in ways unrelated to their relationship.
It is important not to see these changes as a given or expect them to apply universally.
6. Criticisms of the Girlfriend Effect
While the “girlfriend effect” has brought attention to the positive influence relationships can have, it is not without its criticisms.
Some argue that the trend suppresses men’s styles.
They believe many of these transformations depict men losing their sense of fashion to conform to their girlfriend’s expectations or society’s perception of what is attractive.
7. Does the Girlfriend Effect Suppress Individuality?
For instance, some posts show men abandoning their favorite comfortable looks for more trendy, but often less practical, outfits.
Critics argue that this shift could be a form of pressure to fit into a specific mold rather than an authentic transformation.
8. The Issue of Control in Relationships
Another critique comes from those who see this trend as a subtle form of control. Some girlfriends may feel an unconscious desire to mold their partner to fit a specific aesthetic, which could lead to issues if not handled with care and communication.
Relationships should be about mutual growth and respect, not imposing one partner’s style on the other.
9. The Influence of Age and Evolving Style
Finally, critics note that many “before” photos reflect older fashion trends or different stages of life. What might look like a “glow-up” may be more about growing up — moving from adolescent fashion to more mature, sophisticated choices.
The transformation may be less about getting a girlfriend and more about evolving personal taste.
10. Should We Embrace or Reject the Girlfriend Effect?
The “girlfriend effect” is a trend that’s as much about fun as relationships.
At its core, it shows how partners can positively influence and bring out each other’s best qualities — whether by encouraging better style, improved health habits, or greater confidence.
However, it is crucial to strike a balance. Individuality should always be celebrated.
While it is lovely for partners to support each other in becoming their best selves, changes should come from a place of love, not pressure or control.
Ultimately, the girlfriend effect should reflect a supportive relationship, not a transformation imposed to fit societal expectations.
Whether you view the girlfriend effect as a delightful glow-up or a problematic trend, its impact on social media conversations is undeniable.
Relationships can change us, but the best ones ensure we never lose sight of who we are.
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