To evaluate factors shaping mate‐selection decisions, 2 age groups of women were randomly assigned to hypothetical scenarios wherein they sought a sperm donor or life partner. Respondents were asked to (a) construct an ideal man and (b) rate and rank the importance of traits associated with good genes, parenting ability, partner potential, and economic resources. Women seeking donors valued good genes more and partner potential less than women seeking partners. Younger women sought greater degree of physical resemblance to donors than to partners. Older women showed greater desire to be similar to partners than donors on sociocultural characteristics. The findings suggest women adjust their selection criteria as a function of context and that mate preferences may change as women mature.