Are nipple piercings attractive on straight men?
September 7, 2008 2:20 PM Subscribe
Are nipple piercings attractive on straight men? (I have no qualms with LGBT persons with nipple piercings, but that doesn't happen to apply to me.)
I'm a 30-ish year-old guy and I already have my tongue pierced and I've been thinking about getting my nipples pierced as well. Before doing so, though, I thought I'd get a sanity check here.
Of course, I realize that opinions will vary, so I'll probably just try to gauge the overall vibe on this (unless, of course, it ends up veering heavily in one direction or the other). And if you're in the in-favor-of camp, I'd also be interested if you have any preference around whether a guy has one or both nipples pierced.
I'm a 30-ish year-old guy and I already have my tongue pierced and I've been thinking about getting my nipples pierced as well. Before doing so, though, I thought I'd get a sanity check here.
Of course, I realize that opinions will vary, so I'll probably just try to gauge the overall vibe on this (unless, of course, it ends up veering heavily in one direction or the other). And if you're in the in-favor-of camp, I'd also be interested if you have any preference around whether a guy has one or both nipples pierced.
Well, never been intimate with a pierced guy, but I think a nipple barbell is attractive, if you've got an attractive chest under it, and prefer just one.
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 2:31 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 2:31 PM on September 7, 2008
I'm male, so feel free to dismiss this and ridicule me, but...
I have yet to meet a woman who finds nipple rings attractive. In fact, the only opinions on nipple rings I have ever heard women share have been negative. Does this mean there aren't secretly some women who have nipple ring fetishes? No, but I suspect they're a pretty small minority.
posted by Autarky at 2:31 PM on September 7, 2008
I have yet to meet a woman who finds nipple rings attractive. In fact, the only opinions on nipple rings I have ever heard women share have been negative. Does this mean there aren't secretly some women who have nipple ring fetishes? No, but I suspect they're a pretty small minority.
posted by Autarky at 2:31 PM on September 7, 2008
barbell, yes. ring, no. One nipple. I think less might be more in these situations.
posted by anitanita at 2:35 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by anitanita at 2:35 PM on September 7, 2008
I had a boyfriend with nipple rings, and I thought they were really cheesy.
posted by amro at 2:35 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by amro at 2:35 PM on September 7, 2008
Yes, but to barbells and both nipples. A heartfelt no if boasting or winking about them is involved.
posted by carbide at 2:37 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by carbide at 2:37 PM on September 7, 2008
I'd probably laugh. It sure wouldn't be a turn-on.
posted by Dee Xtrovert at 2:41 PM on September 7, 2008 [1 favorite]
posted by Dee Xtrovert at 2:41 PM on September 7, 2008 [1 favorite]
I've had the tongue ring but no girl I ever dated was attracted to the nipple ring idea, at least not that I ever got wind of. Personally I think you're better safe than sorry on this one.
posted by allkindsoftime at 2:41 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by allkindsoftime at 2:41 PM on September 7, 2008
If you don't like it, or end up with a partner who doesn't, you can always take it out. I don't see why you shouldn't explore in the meantime, it doesn't require a major investment of time or money.
I take a lot of shit from my friends for my personal sense of style, but people I wind up getting to know or being intimate with don't seem to mind. I've found that not giving a shit about what other people think tends to attract the right kind of people.
posted by [NOT HERMITOSIS-IST] at 2:43 PM on September 7, 2008 [8 favorites]
I take a lot of shit from my friends for my personal sense of style, but people I wind up getting to know or being intimate with don't seem to mind. I've found that not giving a shit about what other people think tends to attract the right kind of people.
posted by [NOT HERMITOSIS-IST] at 2:43 PM on September 7, 2008 [8 favorites]
Generally, I think the consensus is what you're seeing above (as tempting as it is to have one). On the other hand, I think tongue piercing has a similar place in society, so if that hasn't been an issue for you, maybe it won't be.
posted by spaceman_spiff at 2:44 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by spaceman_spiff at 2:44 PM on September 7, 2008
I liked the nipple piercings (rings, both nipples) on the guy that rode a motorcycle and had a pierced dick. They're only ok as part of a package deal, don't make it your only piercing.
posted by crazycanuck at 2:46 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by crazycanuck at 2:46 PM on September 7, 2008
I like them. I like one or two. I like barbells or rings. The only thing I don't like is when people are all like "GET A LOAD OF THESE I AM TEH SEXAY" and then they are silly.
posted by jessamyn at 2:47 PM on September 7, 2008 [4 favorites]
posted by jessamyn at 2:47 PM on September 7, 2008 [4 favorites]
No. Straight dude with tongue and/or nipple piercing = sleazebag wannabe Lothario.
posted by Inspector.Gadget at 2:48 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by Inspector.Gadget at 2:48 PM on September 7, 2008
I am having a rather difficult time finding any photos of male nipple piercings that meet my attractiveness requirements. There should be pecs. And hair.
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 2:48 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 2:48 PM on September 7, 2008
They're actually a turn-off for me. (As opposed to simply "I don't find them attractive," I mean I find them gross.)
posted by Nattie at 2:49 PM on September 7, 2008 [1 favorite]
posted by Nattie at 2:49 PM on September 7, 2008 [1 favorite]
yikes, no. and it doesn't help that you're thirty.
Please. For both men and women, being thirty-ish is an opportunity to reimagine yourself. You have discovered your adult body and persona, and you are starting to show certain signs of aging that interact interestingly with different styles. Or you have discovered that you're going to look basically the same for another ten years, and decide to capitalize on that. The last couple generations have made huge strides against the notions of what is "age-appropriate."
I'm turning thirty this year, and my partner and I both decided to stretch our earlobes to 0 gauge. I'd never thought about doing it much before, but I like the way it looks a lot. If I'd asked all my friends first (or AskMe) I'm sure I wouldn't have done it. A lot of them don't understand, or think it's icky for vague reasons. But now it's done, and none of them ever really notice -- and if they do, they're respectful enough to refrain from editorializing.
That's another benefit of being thirty. You're in a greater position from which to note when others' vestigial high-school judgmental instincts kick in, and remind them lovingly to fuck off.
posted by [NOT HERMITOSIS-IST] at 2:54 PM on September 7, 2008 [17 favorites]
Please. For both men and women, being thirty-ish is an opportunity to reimagine yourself. You have discovered your adult body and persona, and you are starting to show certain signs of aging that interact interestingly with different styles. Or you have discovered that you're going to look basically the same for another ten years, and decide to capitalize on that. The last couple generations have made huge strides against the notions of what is "age-appropriate."
I'm turning thirty this year, and my partner and I both decided to stretch our earlobes to 0 gauge. I'd never thought about doing it much before, but I like the way it looks a lot. If I'd asked all my friends first (or AskMe) I'm sure I wouldn't have done it. A lot of them don't understand, or think it's icky for vague reasons. But now it's done, and none of them ever really notice -- and if they do, they're respectful enough to refrain from editorializing.
That's another benefit of being thirty. You're in a greater position from which to note when others' vestigial high-school judgmental instincts kick in, and remind them lovingly to fuck off.
posted by [NOT HERMITOSIS-IST] at 2:54 PM on September 7, 2008 [17 favorites]
I don't mind them, but mostly like that sort of thing on guys you wouldn't think would have nipple rings. I guess. But I think it's really much more important that you get that sort of piercing (or any body mod) for you own satisfaction. If you're getting body mods to attract women, you're doing it wrong. And probably a skeezeball.
posted by PhoBWanKenobi at 2:55 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by PhoBWanKenobi at 2:55 PM on September 7, 2008
It totally depends on the girl. I am one of the ones that LOVES it (I LOVE the hidden naughty things, both on me and a guy. I have hidden tattoos and have had a couple hidden piercings), but lots of girls don't. It is kinda true for any kind of body modification. It all depends on what kind of girl you want to date and want to attract. If you like it and want it, go for it. You can always take them out if you change your mind (unlike tattoos). :)
posted by gwenlister at 3:03 PM on September 7, 2008 [1 favorite]
posted by gwenlister at 3:03 PM on September 7, 2008 [1 favorite]
If you're getting body mods to attract women, you're doing it wrong.
Well, with erogenous piercings, no, not exactly wrong. I, as a stand-on for potential female lover, have to be interested in incorporating a piercing into the sexual repertoire. As in, putting it into my mouth, and playing with it with my fingers. It's a tool both partners can use, not just decorative. That's why I say one is better than two. Options!
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 3:04 PM on September 7, 2008
Well, with erogenous piercings, no, not exactly wrong. I, as a stand-on for potential female lover, have to be interested in incorporating a piercing into the sexual repertoire. As in, putting it into my mouth, and playing with it with my fingers. It's a tool both partners can use, not just decorative. That's why I say one is better than two. Options!
posted by Ambrosia Voyeur at 3:04 PM on September 7, 2008
I didn't think I would but then I did.
With my current boyfriend I think it really helped that I wasn't told about them, and that they were discovered via petting so it was none of the "hey look at me!!".
Two are good. My boyfriend had one rip out earlier this year (the piercings are over 10 years old and I think damaged somewhat from around that same time) so now he only has one.
posted by collocation at 3:09 PM on September 7, 2008
With my current boyfriend I think it really helped that I wasn't told about them, and that they were discovered via petting so it was none of the "hey look at me!!".
Two are good. My boyfriend had one rip out earlier this year (the piercings are over 10 years old and I think damaged somewhat from around that same time) so now he only has one.
posted by collocation at 3:09 PM on September 7, 2008
Travel by air much? Hidden rings and barbells are just one more thing for the TSA to give you crap for.
posted by Marky at 3:10 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by Marky at 3:10 PM on September 7, 2008
They can be, yes. (The tongue piercing, on the other hand...)
posted by The corpse in the library at 3:11 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by The corpse in the library at 3:11 PM on September 7, 2008
On a straight guy in his 30s? The laugh I'd get when he took his shirt off for the first time would be better than any orgasm I'd have afterward. So, no.
posted by meerkatty at 3:13 PM on September 7, 2008 [2 favorites]
posted by meerkatty at 3:13 PM on September 7, 2008 [2 favorites]
At the point that your prospective date is seeing your nipple piercings, presumably you will be in the process of getting naked on the way to sexual contact. In which case I don't know any women who would stop and say, "Oh, I was going to sleep with you because you're a great guy with plenty of positive qualities, but now that I see your nipple rings I realize that you're a tool and I'm going to go home and never talk to you again."
Do you see what I'm getting at? Such a woman, who would let a body piercing come between her and a nice guy, is probably not the right kind of girl for you.
posted by muddgirl at 3:18 PM on September 7, 2008 [4 favorites]
Do you see what I'm getting at? Such a woman, who would let a body piercing come between her and a nice guy, is probably not the right kind of girl for you.
posted by muddgirl at 3:18 PM on September 7, 2008 [4 favorites]
why do you care about what the majority of people think? are you trying to date just anyone (or even everyone)? I suspect not, so go with what you think you should do. there is someone for you out there and there are a million people who won't like you as well. such is life.
I don't care if anyone pierces their nipples or any other place, I just don't dig the taste of metal in my mouth.
posted by krautland at 3:20 PM on September 7, 2008
I don't care if anyone pierces their nipples or any other place, I just don't dig the taste of metal in my mouth.
posted by krautland at 3:20 PM on September 7, 2008
Only if you're into nipple play, because you can't get a toy and then get bored when someone wants to play with it.
I vote for two -- if you get one, it'll just seem asymmetrical, and one or the other will get left out. I also vote for barbells over rings.
Also, don't be the dude who starts with "HEY GUESS WHAT" after drinking. If your entire social circle, including people you met last week, is aware, that's not really hot. If it's a surprise and at least a semi-secret -- if I discover it myself -- that's hot.
posted by booksandlibretti at 3:21 PM on September 7, 2008 [2 favorites]
I vote for two -- if you get one, it'll just seem asymmetrical, and one or the other will get left out. I also vote for barbells over rings.
Also, don't be the dude who starts with "HEY GUESS WHAT" after drinking. If your entire social circle, including people you met last week, is aware, that's not really hot. If it's a surprise and at least a semi-secret -- if I discover it myself -- that's hot.
posted by booksandlibretti at 3:21 PM on September 7, 2008 [2 favorites]
Not to me they're not, but I'm another straight man so, I predict, not your target audience.
posted by turgid dahlia at 3:22 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by turgid dahlia at 3:22 PM on September 7, 2008
Well, with erogenous piercings, no, not exactly wrong. I, as a stand-on for potential female lover, have to be interested in incorporating a piercing into the sexual repertoire. As in, putting it into my mouth, and playing with it with my fingers. It's a tool both partners can use, not just decorative. That's why I say one is better than two. Options!
I think there are too many traps to fall into with making potential partners the primary reason for getting body mods, such as thinking that they'll get you a "certain kind" of girl (stereotypes of that line make me feel squicky, and I'm a visibly modded, sexual open person). It would be one thing if anon. were asking us if he should get one because a partner had said they liked it--to which I'd say, if he felt comfortable with it, go for it! But in this case, the person getting modded's own aesthetic and tactile considerations--IE, that it feels good for him, that he likes the way they look--should really come first. Because otherwise he runs the risk of being one of those "GET A LOAD OF THESE I AM TEH SEXAY" dudes that jessamyn mentioned. Or just really regretting the whole thing.
posted by PhoBWanKenobi at 3:29 PM on September 7, 2008
I think there are too many traps to fall into with making potential partners the primary reason for getting body mods, such as thinking that they'll get you a "certain kind" of girl (stereotypes of that line make me feel squicky, and I'm a visibly modded, sexual open person). It would be one thing if anon. were asking us if he should get one because a partner had said they liked it--to which I'd say, if he felt comfortable with it, go for it! But in this case, the person getting modded's own aesthetic and tactile considerations--IE, that it feels good for him, that he likes the way they look--should really come first. Because otherwise he runs the risk of being one of those "GET A LOAD OF THESE I AM TEH SEXAY" dudes that jessamyn mentioned. Or just really regretting the whole thing.
posted by PhoBWanKenobi at 3:29 PM on September 7, 2008
Personally, I think nipple rings are cool, but not exactly sexy-cool. They remind me of door-knockers ("hey guys, get a load of THESE knockers!"). If your chest is hairless, nice and buff, and oiled to match the shininess of the rings, then hey, you might have something going, but I have never met anyone with nipple rings. Also, I shudder at the thought that someone might accidentally take a grab at you and rip one off. Ooowww....
posted by curagea at 3:31 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by curagea at 3:31 PM on September 7, 2008
I find them quite attractive. Both nipples, please. Asymmetry freaks me out. I like rings way better than barbells.
posted by sixcolors at 3:34 PM on September 7, 2008 [2 favorites]
posted by sixcolors at 3:34 PM on September 7, 2008 [2 favorites]
I think nipple rings are hot as long as both nipples are pierced and they aren't on a fat or sloppy looking guy. And as long as your overall sense of style compliments body piercings. Otherwise, it would look silly and out of place.
posted by MaryDellamorte at 3:48 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by MaryDellamorte at 3:48 PM on September 7, 2008
i'm generally okay with piercings, but in later years have found anything off the face a little silly. so i might be turned off.
i'm going to disagree with the above and say that if you are super-buff, nipple rings would definitely be a turnoff, for the same reason a really flashy car or bling is a turnoff--it would seem to be less about the sensual aspect and more about calling attention to one's buffness. i would be more okay with it on a regular schlub.
posted by thinkingwoman at 3:52 PM on September 7, 2008
i'm going to disagree with the above and say that if you are super-buff, nipple rings would definitely be a turnoff, for the same reason a really flashy car or bling is a turnoff--it would seem to be less about the sensual aspect and more about calling attention to one's buffness. i would be more okay with it on a regular schlub.
posted by thinkingwoman at 3:52 PM on September 7, 2008
I think they're anti-hot because I'd go from thinking YEAH LET'S THROW DOWN to OH NO I HAVE TO BE CAREFUL OR THERE WILL BE BLOOD EVERYWHERE GROSS.
but maybe that's just me.
posted by moxiedoll at 3:52 PM on September 7, 2008
but maybe that's just me.
posted by moxiedoll at 3:52 PM on September 7, 2008
Personally, I like the look, barbells and rings alike, one nip or two.
And having traveled with hidden piercings in the past, I've never been given a hard time by TSA. In fact, I've never even set off a detector.
posted by chickygrrl at 3:58 PM on September 7, 2008
And having traveled with hidden piercings in the past, I've never been given a hard time by TSA. In fact, I've never even set off a detector.
posted by chickygrrl at 3:58 PM on September 7, 2008
Not a woman, but most of the women I know (whose opinions I know on such matters) are neutral to positive on nipple piercings. For one or two it would be a hug plus.
posted by rodgerd at 4:00 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by rodgerd at 4:00 PM on September 7, 2008
I'm not against it.
posted by exceptinsects at 4:22 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by exceptinsects at 4:22 PM on September 7, 2008
I would find it cool depending on your attitude (nthing to not make a big deal of it). Unlike sixcolors I like asymmetry, so I'd prefer one, ring or barbell irrelevant.
posted by jacalata at 4:27 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by jacalata at 4:27 PM on September 7, 2008
My HS/college BF had his nipples pierced, and I thought it was cute. (Rings on both.) He also had a tongue piercing, which I found (contrary to popular wink wink nudge nudge) sort of annoying. (Altho it was fun the week he got it and couldn't talk AT ALL for a few days. Blessed silence.) We were younger and a bit polymorphous perverse, so YMMV.
But then, given the responses so far, YMMV seems to be pretty much the stock answer. Do you want to do it? Then go for it! (Also, since you already have a pierced tongue, gals rating high on the squick factor will already be less likely to be interested.)
posted by epersonae at 4:38 PM on September 7, 2008
But then, given the responses so far, YMMV seems to be pretty much the stock answer. Do you want to do it? Then go for it! (Also, since you already have a pierced tongue, gals rating high on the squick factor will already be less likely to be interested.)
posted by epersonae at 4:38 PM on September 7, 2008
Travel by air much? Hidden rings and barbells are just one more thing for the TSA to give you crap for.
That awful case earlier this year aside, I've never heard of it being an issue. It would take a pretty large-gauge piercing (like, almost the size of a door-knocker) to make the walk-through metal detector ring; beeps on the wanding are easily confirmed to be harmless jewelry. There is a chance that you may be forced to lift your t-shirt and show them to the agent in a public space, but that's not the big deal for most men that it would be for many women.
Similar to what Gwenlister wrote, I think you would want to think of your nipple piercings as a filtering device — some (perhaps even many) women will find them a major "ick" and will be filtered out from your dating life; some proportion of women will be neutral and tolerate them; and some proportion will think they are the hottest thing ever. Your question (and one you can't know the answer to ahead of time) is whether the chances of your repelling a potential Ms Right outweigh the chances of attracting a different nipple-ring-loving Ms Right instead, or vice versa.
Piercings are shiny and draw the eye; be sure that you want people staring at that part of your anatomy — if your chest is your worst feature, then nipple rings may not be right accessory. Also, once you sort of get "piercing-dar," as it were, you can get really good at spotting nipple piercings through clothing. Since there are plenty of professional situations in which you won't want people to be thinking about your nipples, you may need to adjust your wardrobe accordingly (eg always wearing undershirts, etc).
posted by Forktine at 4:47 PM on September 7, 2008
That awful case earlier this year aside, I've never heard of it being an issue. It would take a pretty large-gauge piercing (like, almost the size of a door-knocker) to make the walk-through metal detector ring; beeps on the wanding are easily confirmed to be harmless jewelry. There is a chance that you may be forced to lift your t-shirt and show them to the agent in a public space, but that's not the big deal for most men that it would be for many women.
Similar to what Gwenlister wrote, I think you would want to think of your nipple piercings as a filtering device — some (perhaps even many) women will find them a major "ick" and will be filtered out from your dating life; some proportion of women will be neutral and tolerate them; and some proportion will think they are the hottest thing ever. Your question (and one you can't know the answer to ahead of time) is whether the chances of your repelling a potential Ms Right outweigh the chances of attracting a different nipple-ring-loving Ms Right instead, or vice versa.
Piercings are shiny and draw the eye; be sure that you want people staring at that part of your anatomy — if your chest is your worst feature, then nipple rings may not be right accessory. Also, once you sort of get "piercing-dar," as it were, you can get really good at spotting nipple piercings through clothing. Since there are plenty of professional situations in which you won't want people to be thinking about your nipples, you may need to adjust your wardrobe accordingly (eg always wearing undershirts, etc).
posted by Forktine at 4:47 PM on September 7, 2008
Nipple piercing seems sort of ... womanish to me. I (straight female) would probably be a little embarrassed for you if I were in a position to see you with your shirt off. Not a turn-on for me.
posted by frobozz at 4:52 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by frobozz at 4:52 PM on September 7, 2008
H'm.
I think you should do whatever floats your boat, and it's a good IncompatibilityFilter.
That said, if I saw a guy who was over 30 and had both nipples pierced, I'd assume he was gay unless he had really made a commitment to piercings and tattoos a la Dennis Rodman or Anthony Kiedis. So "go big or go home" would be my advice on this one.
posted by Sidhedevil at 4:57 PM on September 7, 2008
I think you should do whatever floats your boat, and it's a good IncompatibilityFilter.
That said, if I saw a guy who was over 30 and had both nipples pierced, I'd assume he was gay unless he had really made a commitment to piercings and tattoos a la Dennis Rodman or Anthony Kiedis. So "go big or go home" would be my advice on this one.
posted by Sidhedevil at 4:57 PM on September 7, 2008
Put me in the group of people who would worry about ripping them out, and thus would be afraid to get physical with someone who had piercings in such a delicate area. Just the idea really squicks me out. A lot.
posted by decathecting at 4:59 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by decathecting at 4:59 PM on September 7, 2008
I like nipple piercings on guys, prefer barbells to rings, and two to one. The caveat is that I'm a queer woman, and am mostly used to seeing them on queer guys. I'm in the "do what you want - it's your body" camp. I would definitely expect to get to play with them, though.
posted by gingerbeer at 5:21 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by gingerbeer at 5:21 PM on September 7, 2008
If you want them, get them. You can always take them out.
I am not a 30 year old man, but I did have my own pierced for awhile. Never worried about ripping them out. If I saw a man with them, I would not assume he was gay. I did not know they were supposed to be a "gay" thing on men. As to whether they look good, I think it completely depends on the person. There are some men I would find them attractive, even sexy on, and some men it would just be wrong. It also depends on how you act about them, don't be embarrassed or overly proud about them.
It hurts like hell to have a needle poked through very tender flesh, but overall, the experience is really not that bad. Be advised, some people find their nipple are not the same afterwards.
posted by silkygreenbelly at 5:31 PM on September 7, 2008
I am not a 30 year old man, but I did have my own pierced for awhile. Never worried about ripping them out. If I saw a man with them, I would not assume he was gay. I did not know they were supposed to be a "gay" thing on men. As to whether they look good, I think it completely depends on the person. There are some men I would find them attractive, even sexy on, and some men it would just be wrong. It also depends on how you act about them, don't be embarrassed or overly proud about them.
It hurts like hell to have a needle poked through very tender flesh, but overall, the experience is really not that bad. Be advised, some people find their nipple are not the same afterwards.
posted by silkygreenbelly at 5:31 PM on September 7, 2008
Put me in the group of people who would worry about ripping them out,
Why do people keep saying this, when no one ever seems to be that worried about earrings? Ears are pretty sensitive, and considering the dangly types of earrings that so many people wear, I can't imagine nipple-piercings being prone to snag more often. The sheer fact that they're covered most of the time eliminates most threats.
posted by [NOT HERMITOSIS-IST] at 5:35 PM on September 7, 2008
Why do people keep saying this, when no one ever seems to be that worried about earrings? Ears are pretty sensitive, and considering the dangly types of earrings that so many people wear, I can't imagine nipple-piercings being prone to snag more often. The sheer fact that they're covered most of the time eliminates most threats.
posted by [NOT HERMITOSIS-IST] at 5:35 PM on September 7, 2008
No. Girlfriend says no.
Possibly not a big deal if man is a pirate, big hunky carpenter, or received piercings as part of an actual tribal initiation.
posted by metajc at 5:56 PM on September 7, 2008
Possibly not a big deal if man is a pirate, big hunky carpenter, or received piercings as part of an actual tribal initiation.
posted by metajc at 5:56 PM on September 7, 2008
Better than getting a rather unfortunate tattoo. But still...
posted by captainsohler at 6:09 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by captainsohler at 6:09 PM on September 7, 2008
When I got my ears pierced, my wife tried to convince me to get my nipples done, too, but i wasn't ready for that. A female friend of mine from my South Florida days says that she finds pirced nipples on guys sexy. So that's two in favor. Shoot, maybe I'll get 'em done one of these days.
posted by jonmc at 6:18 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by jonmc at 6:18 PM on September 7, 2008
Yes. Both nipples, nice chest, rings are more fun to play with than barbells (IMO).
If you decide to do this, make sure you go to a reputable piercer-- crooked or sloppy piercings are a no-go.
posted by Heretic at 6:50 PM on September 7, 2008
If you decide to do this, make sure you go to a reputable piercer-- crooked or sloppy piercings are a no-go.
posted by Heretic at 6:50 PM on September 7, 2008
The question you should really be asking yourself is if you like nipple piercings. If you're getting them because you enjoy the sensation they provide, they will by extension, become attractive to a partner that's interested in giving you pleasure. They aren't really for public show (unless you plan on, say, attracting females by doing a shirtless sweaty mating dance, which is unattractive regardless of whether your nipples are pierced or not.)
If they make you feel sexy because you have a naughty kinky hidden fun secret, then they will be attractive. Your age, whether or not they make you seem "gay," or whether a random sampling of people on a website like them will matter not a whit. In fact, you might be surprised at the seemingly straight-laced people who are hiding a piercing or two under their button downs.
posted by louche mustachio at 7:04 PM on September 7, 2008
For me it depends on the physique of the guy and his general demeanour. It's going to look much hotter on an athletic physique, as opposed to an accountant-type with man boobs - they need to be enhancing what you've already got, so to speak. If your blank canvas looks good, I say go for it. And as Heretic says, find a piercer by recommendation.
posted by poissonrouge at 7:05 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by poissonrouge at 7:05 PM on September 7, 2008
To be a voice of dissent here, two of my straight male friends have nipple piercings and I never thought it was odd at all. But neither of them are the sort of people who worry too much about what other people think, and the girls they have dated tended to be of a similar live and let live philosophy. It just isn't a big deal on any level, which is how it should be. If it's something you really want, go for it. The piercings are going to be under your shirt 99% of the time anyway, so the person they have to please the most is yourself.
posted by CheshireCat at 7:08 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by CheshireCat at 7:08 PM on September 7, 2008
I like them (rings, not barbells), but tongue piercings not so much. But be subtle about them regardless.
posted by biscotti at 7:10 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by biscotti at 7:10 PM on September 7, 2008
As long as you don't also have a goatee.
posted by The Straightener at 7:35 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by The Straightener at 7:35 PM on September 7, 2008
It seems a bit 10 years ago. But I think you should ditch the tongue piercing as well, so there you go.
posted by The Monkey at 8:04 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by The Monkey at 8:04 PM on September 7, 2008
seconding the cheesy. And the 10 years ago. Been there, done that- shouldn't you find something more millennial to use to rebel at?
posted by arnicae at 8:43 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by arnicae at 8:43 PM on September 7, 2008
As a straight, early 30s female........at 18 I would have been "wow, kind of cool!" Now, I would think "Ick."
And for the PP who asked about women being paranoid about earrings being ripped out - yes, I absolutely do. If I'm around my two toddlers you can be sure I won't be wearing dangly earrings (after a friend learned the hard way from her daughter ripping her earring through her earlobe). But sans kids, I will wear them if it's just out to eat or something....not jumping around a wild club. To each their own.
posted by texas_blissful at 9:15 PM on September 7, 2008
And for the PP who asked about women being paranoid about earrings being ripped out - yes, I absolutely do. If I'm around my two toddlers you can be sure I won't be wearing dangly earrings (after a friend learned the hard way from her daughter ripping her earring through her earlobe). But sans kids, I will wear them if it's just out to eat or something....not jumping around a wild club. To each their own.
posted by texas_blissful at 9:15 PM on September 7, 2008
I'm female. I once dated a guy with nipple piercings. I made him take them out before I'd sleep with him. The relationship didn't last long for other reasons, but I was definitely squicked out by the nipple piercings. Ears are OK, everything else is a no-go for me.
posted by desjardins at 9:33 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by desjardins at 9:33 PM on September 7, 2008
Fine by me either way.
posted by The Light Fantastic at 9:40 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by The Light Fantastic at 9:40 PM on September 7, 2008
I have 'em (rings with hematite captive beads), I got them many years ago, I'm 35 but look like I'm in my late twenties, and have met a ton of women who either liked them or were neutral. I got them primarily for me, just like my tattoos. I recently put small diamond studs in my ears, after not having earrings in for a few years.
Just another datapoint.
posted by exlotuseater at 11:21 PM on September 7, 2008
Just another datapoint.
posted by exlotuseater at 11:21 PM on September 7, 2008
I'm a fan of both rings and barbells, just as long as it's just one pierced nipple on someone in good shape who isn't hairy. Then again, I'm in my early twenties; were I a decade older there's a decent chance that I would find them a bit silly.
Nipple rings are like leather pants in their wearability, though — only a select few can make them look good.
posted by thisjax at 11:41 PM on September 7, 2008
Nipple rings are like leather pants in their wearability, though — only a select few can make them look good.
posted by thisjax at 11:41 PM on September 7, 2008
Nipple piercings can be attractive, depending on the male. I prefer rings in both sides. I've been with a guy (slim, heavily tattooed) who had one nipple ring, and it was hella hot to look at and play with. Two would have been even better!
posted by exquisite_deluxe at 11:46 PM on September 7, 2008
posted by exquisite_deluxe at 11:46 PM on September 7, 2008
Since there are plenty of professional situations in which you won't want people to be thinking about your nipples, you may need to adjust your wardrobe accordingly (eg always wearing undershirts, etc).
When you don't want to go the undershirt route, band-aids will help, especially if you get a ring rather than a barbell.
posted by thisjax at 11:46 PM on September 7, 2008
When you don't want to go the undershirt route, band-aids will help, especially if you get a ring rather than a barbell.
posted by thisjax at 11:46 PM on September 7, 2008
Depends on the guy.
My fella has rings in his and they are delectably tempting. When he's working office jobs, he's a suit & tie guy, and just knowing what's under that oh-so-proper button-up (with t-shirt, of course) is enough to keep me dreaming about him coming home all day long.
posted by batmonkey at 12:24 AM on September 8, 2008
My fella has rings in his and they are delectably tempting. When he's working office jobs, he's a suit & tie guy, and just knowing what's under that oh-so-proper button-up (with t-shirt, of course) is enough to keep me dreaming about him coming home all day long.
posted by batmonkey at 12:24 AM on September 8, 2008
If you get pierced for your own reasons then you will find out if they suit you. It is a reversible procedure. The pain is sharp but fleeting. You get to choose minute by minute whether they still suit you, after you've made the small investment in jewelry and the larger investment in getting a very good piercer - make it the top person in your city if the city is a million people or more; travel rather than get pierced by someone not at the pinnacle of his/her profession.
I've had reactions all over the map from mine - and I have had plenty of time to gather them (since 1991). Among the female part of the population some will be excited, some will be indifferent and some will go 'yech'. Some will go "ewww" but then they'll keep looking, too.
Feel free to mefi-mail if you have questions.
posted by jet_silver at 12:35 AM on September 8, 2008
I've had reactions all over the map from mine - and I have had plenty of time to gather them (since 1991). Among the female part of the population some will be excited, some will be indifferent and some will go 'yech'. Some will go "ewww" but then they'll keep looking, too.
Feel free to mefi-mail if you have questions.
posted by jet_silver at 12:35 AM on September 8, 2008
i prefer barbells to rings. i do think they best suit men who have other piercings, stretched ears, or tattoos. but seriously, do whatever you think is hot, because what's really attractive is someone who's made some decisions.
posted by twistofrhyme at 1:15 AM on September 8, 2008
posted by twistofrhyme at 1:15 AM on September 8, 2008
I've had several piercings at various times, and was never interested in getting my nipple done until a random drunk guy in the pub decided to show me his. He had a Horseshoe Barbell. I thought it looked pretty cool. And I only went with the one. If you're getting both done with barbells, make sure they're level. Accidental asymmetry looks a lot worse than intentional one-nipple-only asymmetry. And yes, straight guy.
posted by leakymem at 4:02 AM on September 8, 2008
posted by leakymem at 4:02 AM on September 8, 2008
One of the hottest straight guys I know has at least one nipple pierced.
posted by frecklefaerie at 8:39 AM on September 8, 2008
posted by frecklefaerie at 8:39 AM on September 8, 2008
the only guy i know that has his nipples pierced gets mocked severely for it
mrs.phritosan definitely considers them a turn-off
posted by phritosan at 9:09 AM on September 8, 2008
mrs.phritosan definitely considers them a turn-off
posted by phritosan at 9:09 AM on September 8, 2008
Why not? Most people will never even know it's there. I've had a circular barbell in my left nipple for years. I don't think about it much, frankly, but I don't think about my earring much, either. Hurt like hell when I got it done, though.
If you do it, do it for yourself - who cares what the squares think.
posted by MythMaker at 1:13 PM on September 8, 2008
If you do it, do it for yourself - who cares what the squares think.
posted by MythMaker at 1:13 PM on September 8, 2008
I'm kind of surprised that the consensus seems to be that they're not attractive; for some reason I would've thought it'd be the other way around. For what it's worth I think they're uber-hot on guys (barbells or rings, though I think 2 pierced looks nicer than 1). Hell, I've been meaning to get it done myself.
One of my best (straight) friends had it done a while back, and I thought it (ahem) complimented the way he looks quite nicely- although I must admit that he was subject to more than a little hazing over it from other people we know. He's happy with them, though.
Then again, I'm a gay man, so this opinion might be useless to you. If you want them and think they'd look nice on you, get them. I can't imagine this being a deal-breaker for a potential girlfriend who might not like them; just take 'em out if she doesn't.
posted by kryptondog at 3:21 PM on September 8, 2008
One of my best (straight) friends had it done a while back, and I thought it (ahem) complimented the way he looks quite nicely- although I must admit that he was subject to more than a little hazing over it from other people we know. He's happy with them, though.
Then again, I'm a gay man, so this opinion might be useless to you. If you want them and think they'd look nice on you, get them. I can't imagine this being a deal-breaker for a potential girlfriend who might not like them; just take 'em out if she doesn't.
posted by kryptondog at 3:21 PM on September 8, 2008
I got mine (Both, rings with bead) done in 1994. Of the women I've been with since then, none have found them a turnoff, 20% were neutral, and 80% have really enjoyed them. YMMV.
I think it's kinda dependent on your look in general. I have other piercings and tattoos, so it's not a shock for the observer.
posted by SaintCynr at 6:47 PM on September 8, 2008
I think it's kinda dependent on your look in general. I have other piercings and tattoos, so it's not a shock for the observer.
posted by SaintCynr at 6:47 PM on September 8, 2008
Yes. I'm a girl and have rings in both nipples myself, so it would be especially fun to play with our nipple rings together. I guess I'd prefer the symmetrical look if given a choice.
You don't have to worry about the attitudes of most people toward nipple piercings, because most people aren't going to see them, unless you flaunt them, which you shouldn't. I really doubt anyone otherwise interested in you would change her mind after seeing them. I have a friend who's neurotic about piercings, has never even had her ears pierced, who ended up making out with a guy who had nipple rings, and was totally into it.
posted by bookish at 8:36 PM on September 8, 2008
You don't have to worry about the attitudes of most people toward nipple piercings, because most people aren't going to see them, unless you flaunt them, which you shouldn't. I really doubt anyone otherwise interested in you would change her mind after seeing them. I have a friend who's neurotic about piercings, has never even had her ears pierced, who ended up making out with a guy who had nipple rings, and was totally into it.
posted by bookish at 8:36 PM on September 8, 2008
My boyfriend used to have his nipples pierced, before I met him. He had barbells, I believe. He said he didn't really care for them, but kept them in for quite a while because he found that girls with pierced nipples would often show him their boobs when they found out he had his pierced, too. So, chicks with pierced nipples, at least, will find it attractive. And you'll probably get to see some (pierced) boobies :)
posted by apis mellifera at 9:29 PM on September 8, 2008
posted by apis mellifera at 9:29 PM on September 8, 2008
Barbells on both = attractive.
posted by unknowncommand at 10:41 PM on September 8, 2008
posted by unknowncommand at 10:41 PM on September 8, 2008
coming late to this party, but as a straight woman, i say YES they are crazy attractive on men. Go for it!
posted by silverstatue at 11:03 AM on September 12, 2008
posted by silverstatue at 11:03 AM on September 12, 2008
This thread is closed to new comments.
posted by coizero at 2:29 PM on September 7, 2008 [1 favorite]