London: As Valentine’s Day nears, this article examines the shifting ideals of partners from the 1920s to today, revealing changes in desired traits influenced by celebrity culture, technology, and historical context. Insights from past surveys highlight ongoing similarities and evolving preferences among modern daters.
With Valentine’s Day approaching, the quest for the ideal partner is increasingly at the forefront of people’s minds. This timeless question has been both contemplated and debated throughout history, with a notable instance occurring in 1920 when the Duluth News Tribune posed this very query to its readers. Young individuals were invited to share their visions of the perfect spouse, leading to a plethora of responses detailing preferences that varied from eye colour to personal ambitions. The newspaper subsequently published some of these entries for public perusal.
Reflecting on this historical survey, the newspaper’s editor at the time remarked, “The ideal of the young man and woman of today is very much the same as that which our fathers and mothers, our grandmothers and grandfathers sometimes found.” This assertion raises the question of whether contemporary ideals still mirror those of the 1920s.
In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, research into modern dating has become far more accessible. A simple online search for “What do people look for in an ideal partner?” produces thousands of insights, suggesting that contemporary qualities sought in partners are increasingly centred on attributes such as trustworthiness, loyalty, dependability, empathy, and kindness, while physical attributes still retain some importance.
In an imaginative exploration of past and present preferences, the investigation employed artificial intelligence to juxtapose the characteristics desired by individuals in 1920 against today’s celebrity standards. An example of this juxtaposition is actor Timothée Chalamet, who could have been considered a heartthrob had he existed in the 1920s. The survey indicated that women were drawn to men aged 23 to 27, weighing approximately 155 pounds, with dark blue eyes, a jet-black pompadour and a rosy complexion. Although Chalamet doesn’t fit every requirement, he comes close to the ideal, particularly in terms of contemporary earnings compared to the historical standard of $3,000 a year.
On the other side of the spectrum, Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen expressed that his dream wife would be a 20-year-old, standing 5’8”, weighing 130 pounds, with blue eyes, brown hair, and a rosy completion. Surprisingly, actress Hailee Steinfeld emerged as a contemporary match based on those criteria, although she diverges from the traditional aspirations of a 1920s woman, who was expected to pursue teaching and embody a “fiery” temperament.
Shifting focus to 2025, the ideal partner preferences reveal notable shifts in traits sought, especially towards a greater inclination for blonde hair and Australian heritage. Actor Chris Hemsworth has emerged as a leading choice, due to his towering height of 6’3” and robust physique, with personality traits such as humour and family devotion enhancing his appeal.
Also commanding attention is Australian actress Margot Robbie, who has been celebrated as the quintessential dream woman of the moment. Despite being slightly shorter than Hailee Steinfeld, Robbie’s blonde hair and affable nature bolster her desirability in contemporary rankings. Ryan Gosling, co-star in the film “Barbie,” commented on Robbie’s kindness, sharing that she brought small beach-related gifts to set, reflecting her thoughtful persona.
As February 14 approaches, the exploration of what constitutes an ideal partner continues to evolve, blending historical preferences with modern sensibilities. In an era where celebrity culture heavily influences romantic ideals, individuals remain on the lookout for connections that resonate both emotionally and aesthetically.
Source: Noah Wire Services
