If dating and relationships in 2024 taught us anything, it’s that modern love is constantly reinventing itself. With a fresh new year upon us, there’s some interesting trends already developing. Dating platform Tinder recently released its “Year in Swipe” report and we’ve got the lowdown on the year’s top trends and a sneak peek at what’s ahead for 2025. Spoiler alert: dating just got a whole lot cheekier.
See also: Red Tuesday: Why are couples breaking up on this day?
Bye-bye situationships, hello intentions…
Gone are the days of vague, undefined “situationships.” In 2024, singles made it clear: they want something real. “Looking for…” was Tinder’s top bio phrase, signaling a shift from casual vibes to unapologetic clarity. Mixed signals? Left swiped. Instead, singles are entering 2025 with purpose, embracing vision boards (yes, really) to manifest love based on trust, physical attraction, and shared values.
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Loud looking: Turning up the volume on dating
Forget subtle hints; this year, it’s all about calling your shot. “Loud Looking” is Tinder’s term for singles confidently announcing what they’re after, from “finance bro” crushes to gamer girlfriends. Think of it as the dating world’s version of turning up the mic and saying, “This is what I want—who’s in?”
Kiss-mets: because fate deserves a rebrand
Who needs scripted dating rules when you’ve got serendipity on your side? Enter Kiss-mets—a playful spin on “kismet,” where destiny meets spontaneity. Think sweaty hike dates, pottery sessions that end with more clay on you than the pot, and vintage shopping escapades doubling as impromptu runway shows. In 2025, Kiss-mets are rewriting the rules with unscripted joy.
Nano-ships: Finding love in the little moments
What’s smaller than a situationship but packs just as much charm? Nano-ships. These micro-connections—like a subway eye-lock or daily “good morning” texts—taught us in 2024 that romance doesn’t have to be grand to matter. In 2025, expect even more appreciation for those bite-sized sparks of joy as singles savour meaningful moments while on the hunt for their “forever person.”
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Dating is officially a team sport
For 2024 daters, friends weren’t just confidants—they were dating MVPs. Nearly 60% turned to their pals for advice, and a solid 20% even enlisted them to pre-screen dates via social media. As for 2025? Friends are sticking around as the ultimate hype squad, helping daters navigate new connections with wisdom, humour, and maybe a little astrological guidance. Speaking of the stars, Leos, Geminis, and Virgos—congrats. You’re apparently the zodiac MVPs of dating.
Clear communication is the new sexy
If 2024 was about healing, 2025 is about showing up as your best self. Singles are no longer settling—they’re seeking loyalty, honesty, and trust. Deal breakers like bad hygiene (yikes) and talking about your ex are getting the boot. Instead, singles are raising the bar, prioritizing emotional availability and genuine connection. Bonus points if you radiate Golden Retriever energy: loyal, optimistic, and ready to play.
What’s next for 2025?
Expect daters to keep raising their standards, embracing quirky emojis and redefining modern love. With trends like Kiss-mets and Nano-ships leading the way, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of intentionality, spontaneity, and cheeky optimism. So whatever your style—whether you’re a Loud Looker, a Kiss-met seeker, or simply vibing in Nano-ship territory—2025 is your year to love boldly and laugh often. Game on, lovers.
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Feature image by Min An
