This is why you might look like your partner according to science
Bit weird, but okay...
Bit weird, but okay...
Words by Jadie Troy-Pryde
Science throws up some curveballs when it comes to explaining why you're attracted to your other half. It claims that this is why we tend to fancy men with beards, and research has even gone so far as to show that women are drawn to men who look like their brothers.
And if you're utterly repulsed by that, prepare yourself - because science has once again put forward a rather unsavoury reason to explain why some couples actually look like each other.
Have you ever looked at a couple you know and realised that they appear to have morphed into each other? Or maybe someone has pointed out that you and your partner look strangely similar?
According to science, the reason could be because you're related (yes, really).
A study by PLOS Genetics examined why people are attracted to those who look pretty similar to themselves, and they surveyed couples' DNA to see if anything showed up.
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
Once all the data was collected, scientists discovered that the pairs all shared a significant amount of genetics, leading them to conclude that people subconsciously choose partners that share ancestors. Delightful.
But why does this happen? The likelihood is that in the past, people would have paired off with someone who came from the same area as them, and therefore would share a genetic history. Then these couples had children, and their children would have had children, meaning that although this will dilute the genes over a period of time if you go back far enough we will likely share lineage with our partner in some form or other.
Gross, but interesting. But mostly gross.
The leading destination for fashion, beauty, shopping and finger-on-the-pulse views on the latest issues. Marie Claire's travel content helps you delight in discovering new destinations around the globe, offering a unique – and sometimes unchartered – travel experience. From new hotel openings to the destinations tipped to take over our travel calendars, this iconic name has it covered.
-
Kate Middleton always provides elegant and elevated Christmas day outfit inspiration - these are the pieces she relies upon for the best festive looks
A royal-approved take on festive dressing
By Jazzria Harris
-
I’m a master procrastinator- these are my ultimate fail-safe presents that guarantee speedy delivery and satisfaction
High-quality, handmade, and expedited
By Sofia Piza
-
Everything you need to know about the new PEUGEOT E-5008
This new offering from PEUGEOT is the zero-emissions version of the Peugeot 5008
By Lauren Hughes