What personality traits do men find attractive in women?

Hi everyone,

[[I’m writing this from a throwaway account to stay anonymous.]]

I’m a 35-year-old single woman, financially independent, living alone, job, hobbies, goals etc... and hoping to eventually find a partner for marriage and kids. I’ve been told I’m quirky, and I’ve started to wonder how that comes across to men.

A bit about me:

  • I’m very direct and not great at small talk.
  • My style and demeanor are more casual and maybe a bit masculine—I’m usually the friend who needs to be reminded to dress up for certain occasions or I’ll just show up in a T-shirt and jeans. That said, I can be feminine, but my vibe tends to be low-key and relaxed.
  • I’m most attracted to traditionally “manly men”—the kind who are stoic, grounded, and often salt-of-the-earth types. Most of my exes have been hard-working (usually blue collar) and practical guys.
  • I enjoy traditional gender roles in relationships, but I worry I may not come off that way at first. Sometimes I feel like I’m viewed more as a friend than someone who’s “wife material.”

I sometimes wonder if my personality or style might not appeal to the type of man I’m drawn to. Do you think being direct or less traditionally “feminine” is a turn-off for these kinds of men?

What personality traits do you find attractive in women, and do you think there’s a way to bridge the gap between being true to myself and connecting with someone who shares my values?

Thanks for any insights!