What Do Teenage Guys Find Attractive? 13 Things Guys Like

Co-authored by Desiree Panlilio and Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA

Last Updated: September 1, 2025 Fact Checked

You know that girl—the one all the boys want? That’s you after you finish reading this article. Figuring out what teen guys want is like unraveling a mystery, but we’ve cracked their code and are ready to help you turn heads. We’ve got all the answers about what teenage guys like in a girl. Keep reading for a list of their turn-ons, as well as how to avoid turn-offs.

Tips for Attracting a Teenage Guy

Teen life coach Desiree Panlilio says it depends a lot on the individual. Most guys are looking for someone genuine, fun, and honest, so focus on being the best version of yourself. Remember that the right guy for you will probably have interests similar to yours, so try getting to know him a bit to see what he's into.

1

Confidence

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Guys are drawn to a girl who knows she rocks. Fortunately, you can fake it until you make it. Start by standing tall because good posture conveys confidence. Additionally, wear clothes that make you feel fabulous.^{[1]
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Research source} You'll also feel more confident if you remind yourself of your best qualities.^{[2]
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Suzanna Mathews
Dating & Relationship Coach

Expert Interview}
- Confidence makes you gorgeous, so don’t worry about things like your height, shape, or size.

2

Nice Smile

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A lovely smile lights up the room—and catches a guy’s eyes. Smile at guys you like when you see them in the halls at school. Additionally, draw attention to your lips by applying a lip product, like lip balm or gloss.^{[3]
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PubMed Central
Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health

Go to source} The boys won’t be able to stop thinking about your smile.
- You might practice different smiles in the mirror so you can flash a flirty grin when you see your crush.

3

Charming Looks

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Every guy has different qualities they look for in a girl. Because beauty is in the eye of the beholder, there’s not one “look” that makes a girl attractive.^{[4]
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PubMed Central
Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health

Go to source} To look your best, highlight your best features and embrace what makes you unique.
- It may help to have a morning and evening routine to help you look and feel your best. Make time to wash your face, brush your teeth, pick an outfit, style your hair, and, if you like, put on makeup.
- Your body type really doesn’t matter as much as you might think.^{[5]
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  Research source} The right guy for you isn’t going to care about your size or shape.^{[6]
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4

Stylish Wardrobe

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Make sure you look great before you step out the door. Wear your best looks at school, and snap yourself on the weekends. You don’t have to sacrifice your personal style to be trendy. Instead, follow the trends that reflect your individuality and flatter your body type. You’ll look great, and you’re sure to turn some heads.
- Short on cash? Share clothes with your friends, shop sales, or buy second-hand from a thrift store or online.
- Got a school uniform? Accessorize it! Don’t forget that you can post your outfits on social media, too.

5

Nice Smell

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Sometimes the way to a guy’s heart is through his nose. Teen guys probably don’t sit around thinking about body lotions and perfume, but they notice when you smell amazing. If you’re into body care, pick a scent that you love so you can enjoy smelling wonderful all day. They boys will surely notice.^{[7]
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- You don’t have to douse yourself in fragrances to get a guy. If you aren’t into beauty products, it’s okay to skip this.

6

Similar Interests

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When you share interests, you have more fun together. Does this mean you should ditch all of your interests and become the female version of your crush? Nope. A few common interests is all it takes to impress the guy you like.
- Maybe you both play soccer, like the same band, or enjoy acting. Figure out what you have in common with a guy and talk to him about that.^{[8]
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7

Goals or Hobbies

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Having a fun, ambitious personality makes you interesting. Make sure you’re carving out time to pursue your goals or hobbies. Audition for the school play, make bracelets to sell, enter the school talent show, try out for the Volleyball team, dominate the debate team, or start a comic book club. It doesn’t matter what you’re into—just go for it.
- Talk about your goals at school so people know you’re ambitious. Additionally, post about them on your social media.

8

Intelligence

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Brains are just as important as beauty. You can show off your smarts by sharing facts you’ve learned or by discussing topics you’re studying in school. Additionally, dressing the part convinces people around you that you’re super smart.^{[9]
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Research source} Guys will quickly recognize that you’re the total package.
- It’s totally normal to struggle in some subjects. If that’s the case, focus on your strong areas. You might not do well in English class, but science may be where you shine.

9

Sense of Humor

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Dudes love it when you think they’re funny. Even if his jokes are bad, laugh like you think they’re hilarious. He’ll appreciate that you get his sense of humor, and it’ll make him want to keep talking to you.^{[10]
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- That being said, call him out if his jokes are offensive. There’s no room for racism or sexism.
- Teasing is a huge turn-off for most guys. Even if you’re just joking, teasing will make them feel embarrassed.

10

Flirty Behavior

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Flirt by making eye contact and smiling when you see him. You might also wink or wave at him. When you talk to him, lean toward him, twirl your hair, and smile a lot.^{[11]
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Suzanna Mathews
Dating & Relationship Coach

Expert Interview} Additionally, listen intently to what he’s saying and nod along so he knows you’re interested.^{[12]
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- He’ll also love getting compliments from you.^{[13]
  X
  Research source} Make a point to tell guys when you like their outfit or to congratulate them on an accomplishment.
- Reader Poll: We asked 962 wikiHow readers, and 63% of them agreed that playful banter is the type of teasing that’s the strongest indicator you have chemistry with a guy. [Take Poll]

11

Curiosity

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Guys appreciate it when you take the time to get to know them. Pepper him with questions about his life, what he likes, and what his goals are.^{[14]
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Go to source} Pay attention to what he says and ask follow-up questions. People love to talk about themselves! Here are some questions to get you started:
- What do you like to do after school?
- What clubs do you participate in?
- What are your hobbies?
- What’s your dream job?

12

Independence

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Dudes want space—so they want a girl who does, too. Make it clear to guys that you have boundaries around your time so you aren’t available every second of the day. Additionally, protect blocks of time so you can work on school work, hang out with friends, or pursue your interests. He’ll appreciate that you have a full, active life.^{[15]
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- Teen guys hate the idea of being “locked down.” It’s a huge turn-off to them. They’re attracted to independent girls because they won’t feel trapped.

13

Bravery

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He’ll love it if you reach out first. Send him a simple, “Hey, how’s it going” to break the ice. Keep him engaged in your conversation by talking about the things you have in common, talking about fun things, and asking him interesting questions. Just make sure you wait until he responds before you send another text.
- If you don’t have his phone number, try messaging him on social media. After you have a conversation going, you can ask for his digits.

Expert Q&A

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Question

What is the benefit of flirting?

Suzanna Mathews
Dating & Relationship Coach
Suzanna Mathews is a Dating and Relationship Coach and the Founder of The Date Maven. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in creating mindset tools, social strategies, and digital strategies that help her clients elevate dating and deepen connections. Suzanna holds a BA in Communications from Bethel College, North Newton, and an MA in Theater and Dramatic Arts from Wichita State University.

Suzanna Mathews

Dating & Relationship Coach

Expert Answer

The core of flirting is simply playfulness. It is having fun and building a connection that may not lead anywhere. But it can make both the persons feel uplifted and make them smile. It can make them feel a bit better and enable them to have a good time.

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How can you build your confidence?

Suzanna Mathews
Dating & Relationship Coach
Suzanna Mathews is a Dating and Relationship Coach and the Founder of The Date Maven. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in creating mindset tools, social strategies, and digital strategies that help her clients elevate dating and deepen connections. Suzanna holds a BA in Communications from Bethel College, North Newton, and an MA in Theater and Dramatic Arts from Wichita State University.

Suzanna Mathews

Dating & Relationship Coach

Expert Answer

Do not make an assessment based on looks. Maybe you have a good set of values, strong relationship skills, or a great personality. Not everyone possesses these qualities. Think about these assets and build your confidence.

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Tips

Just be yourself! There’s nothing more attractive than someone who’s confident and comfortable with who they are.

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Every guy is looking for something different. Instead of changing yourself to go after a guy, find a guy who likes you the way you are.

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