Study finds 'sexiest woman' profile in 2025 leans brunette, tattoos and relationship status

A new analysis of Maxim magazine's annual Hot 100 lists, spanning 2016 through 2025, identifies a consistent profile for the sexiest woman in 2025: dark eyes, long dark hair, a heart-shaped face, and a height around 5 feet 6 inches. The study notes that women who are in relationships or married tend to be perceived as more desirable, and tattoos are common among those labeled as attractive.

The research by PlayersTime analyzed attributes such as age, height, body type, facial features and hair color across the last decade of rankings. It found the ideal age near 29, with brown eyes and brown hair, and a silhouette around 5'6" (172 cm). The report lists several celebrities who match the profile at roughly 80% to 90% compatibility: Dua Lipa and Hailey Bieber at 90% each, Shay Mitchell at 80%, Emily Ratajkowski at 80%, Olivia Culpo at 70%, Zendaya at 70%, Kendall Jenner at 50%, Lily Collins at 50%, Sofia Carson at 40%, Ana de Armas at 40%.

Two-thirds of the women in the sample were slim, about a third had an hourglass figure, and 64% wore tattoos. Nine in 10 were in a relationship or engaged or married, while about 12% were single. Hair tended to be long or medium length, and brown hair and brown eyes were the most common features. The data also show that 44% had either body or facial plastic surgery.

In the celebrity roster, several well-known names fit parts of the profile. Emily Ratajkowski and Olivia Culpo each score about 70%, while Zendaya sits at roughly 70% but falls short on height. Kendall Jenner and Lily Collins each check about 50%, with Sofia Carson and Ana de Armas around 40%.

The rankings also trace how perceived attractiveness has shifted over the past decade. In 2016 Maxim featured stars such as Margot Robbie and Irina Shayk; 2017 Emma Watson; 2019 Sophie Turner; 2023 Beyoncé and Taylor Swift; 2024 Miley Cyrus; and 2025 the current blend of features highlighted by PlayersTime.

"Across the years, Maxim's selections have formed a strikingly diverse constellation of celebrities, each marked by their own exceptional appeal," PlayersTime said in a blog post. "Icons such as Jennifer Lopez and Beyoncé have set the standard for mainstream beauty through their style, presence, and the way their curves define attractiveness."

The scientists also note a separate phenomenon called the 'beauty backfire' effect, wherein extremely attractive individuals may be perceived as less relatable. While the study focuses on Western celebrity culture, researchers say the framing aligns with broader conversations about representation, aging, and personal branding in contemporary media.

The culture and entertainment landscape continues to reflect evolving expectations for female beauty, with social media amplifying how trends disseminate and endure.