Thumbs up convey the message of power, dominance, and superiority.
Hands in the pockets with thumbs protruding up give the impression of a confident and authoritative person. Also, this posture gives you a relaxed appearance that translates confidence and self-esteem.
Both hands in pockets with thumbs up
Women use this posture usually when they are posing for a shot while men often do when they want to look cool and show their superiority or want to impress a woman whom they feel attracted to and get her attention.
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One hand in pocket with thumb up
One hand in pocket with the thumb sticking out is a high confidence display and comfort.
It’s a resting position especially when you lean against a rail or support your back on a wall. You often find this posture in fashion magazines or on the runway when models hold a jacket over one shoulder showing a nonchalant elegance with a striking pose.

Read more about other postures here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does hands in pockets with thumbs sticking out say about a person?
Thumbs protruding up convey power, dominance, and superiority, so this posture gives the impression of a confident, authoritative person. At the same time it lends a relaxed appearance that translates into confidence and healthy self-esteem.
Do men and women use the thumbs-out pocket pose differently?
Women usually adopt both hands in pockets with thumbs up when posing for a photo, while men often use it to look cool, display superiority, or catch the attention of a woman they are attracted to. The underlying message of confidence is the same, but the intent tends to differ.
What does one hand in a pocket with the thumb out communicate?
One hand in the pocket with the thumb sticking out is a display of high confidence and comfort. It works as a resting position, especially when leaning against a rail or a wall, and it reads as relaxed assurance rather than arrogance.
Why do fashion models often pose with one hand in a pocket?
You often see this posture in fashion magazines and on the runway, where models hold a jacket over one shoulder with one hand in a pocket, thumb out. The stance projects a nonchalant elegance and creates a striking, confident pose.