In online dating, photos carry more weight than bios, and algorithms quietly shape who gets attention. Platforms like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge sort profiles based on engagement, and body type plays a bigger role than many realize.
From the rise of the “slim thick” trend to the classic V-shaped torso, what gets swiped right isn’t just personal taste—it’s influenced by social media, filtered photos, and built-in bias. So which body types consistently rise to the top? And does the algorithm treat casual flings and serious relationships differently?
Do Certain Physiques Get More Visibility?
Apps don’t sort by body type outright, but they do promote profiles that get more likes. That means popular looks—whatever they are at the time—get more exposure.
For women, curvier shapes like the hourglass figure and the “slim thick” combo (toned with pronounced hips) tend to get more traction.
For men, athletic builds and the softer “dad bod” both score high engagement—just in different contexts.
Preferences vary by city. In places like Miami or Los Angeles, ultra-fit is the norm. In Berlin or Portland, a more laid-back, natural look does better. In Greece, traditional Mediterranean beauty—curves and a healthy appearance—still appeals, but younger users reflect global trends.
And it’s not limited to dating apps. On Skokka and other escort sites, where body types are part of the pitch, the most requested profiles echo the same trends seen on Tinder and Bumble. Whether it’s social media or personal ads, digital attraction follows patterns.
The Hidden Game Changers: Photos and Bios
It’s not just about your body type—it’s how you present it. Small changes can make a big difference:
- The Hip-Angle Trick: Women who subtly shift their hips in photos get significantly more likes. It’s not about showing off—it’s about shaping perception.
- The Gym Selfie: Men showing off toned shoulders or arms tend to get better results—if the photo looks natural, not staged.
- Filtered but Real: A touch of warmth or natural light helps. Over-editing, on the other hand, lowers trust and engagement.
- Bios Matter: Specifics beat clichés. Saying “I hike every weekend” does more than vague tags like “fun-loving.” Bios that signal a real lifestyle help the algorithm decide who to show your profile to.
Heraklion’s Dating Scene: Tradition Meets Trend
In Heraklion, the dating scene sits at a crossroads of old and new. Locals generally prefer balanced body types—fit but not overly sculpted, curvy but not exaggerated. But tourists often swipe based on global trends.
A recent analysis from an agency listing escorts in Heraklion showed that visitors were more likely to request women with the “Instagram model” look—defined waist, sculpted curves. Locals, by contrast, leaned toward natural beauty. This lines up with broader app data: people looking for casual hookups go for flashy profiles, while relationship-seekers look for something more grounded.
Expert Insight: Does Body Type Matter More for Hookups?
We asked dating researcher Dr. Lisa Chen about body type and dating goals. Her take?
Hookups: “People are drawn to high-impact visuals—six-packs, tiny waists, enhanced curves. These profiles get quick attention but rarely turn into lasting connections.”
Relationships: “Users shift toward what’s familiar and real. A ‘girl-next-door’ or ‘dad bod’ suggests stability, which becomes more appealing for long-term matches.”
Chen also points out that algorithms reinforce our preferences. If you swipe right on a certain look, you’ll see more of it. This creates a loop where the same body types keep showing up—and keep getting chosen.
The Bottom Line
Dating apps aren’t neutral. Their algorithms promote whatever body types are already getting clicks. The most swiped-right bodies aren’t the most common—they’re the ones that fit the current trend, are photographed well, and appeal to the app’s core user base.
Still, there’s room to work the system. Niche platforms (like www.skokka.gr or apps for plus-size or athletic singles) give users a way to find their lane. And small profile tweaks—better lighting, smarter bios—can shift your results.
At the end of the day, you decide whether to play the game or stay real. But at least now, you know how the game works.
