Dating during COVID was shaped by where you lived, your job, communication skills, and comfort with technology. How you adapted influenced your chances of connecting with the right people.
Three years on, let’s explore five post-COVID dating trends and how to navigate them, whether you’re seeking a hookup, a soulmate, or a companion.
Online dating and apps continue to grow, fueled by technology that made connecting during lockdown possible. The way we meet has shifted from in-person events to digital connections, and now we’re in an era of dating both online and in real life.
Today, connecting is easier than ever, with expanding app options and digital opportunities. Whether you’re actively dating, returning after a breakup, or testing the waters, understanding these trends is key to dating successfully in 2025.
How to date successfully in 2025 and beyond
Virtual dating is here to stay
Being able to have a great virtual date is just as important as the first date IRL. More people are using online dating apps and, virtual dating is normalised. Learn how to have great virtual dates or you could get left in the pre-covid dark.
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Your photo is more important than your looks
Looks matter when it comes to choosing a potential match. There is nothing new in the need to feel a physical attraction that motivates the desire to want to get to know someone. As you flick through the catalogue of never-ending potential matches you are drawn to the photo that stands out the most. It’s become a matter of who has the most eye-catching photo, and the competition is tough. With time on your hands capturing the perfect selfie and enhancing it to within an inch of its life might get you swipes or matches but how much of what you show is truly you? It is a short-term strategy that barely yields any real benefits. Being catfished, misled and having your time wasted with misrepresentation are amongst the biggest dating gripes of 2022.
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Get comfortable with virtual dating
Being able to have a great virtual date is just as important as the first date IRL. More people are using online dating apps, virtual dating has become normalised. Learn how to have great virtual dates or you could get left in the pre-covid dark.
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Slow dating is making a comeback
What is slow dating? It’s when two people decide to spend more time getting to know each other and connecting on an emotional level before they decide to jump in the sack. Be respectful that many of your matches will want to approach dating this way and avoid messages that ask for sex or “booty calls” off the bat. Be clear about what you want, but don’t turn people off if you’re looking for a relationship that lasts.
Your vaccination choices affect more than your health
Being transparent and upfront is admirable but when it comes to the topic of the jab it’s a need-to-know basis. You have your opinions and views just as everybody does but putting up another wall before you have even had a chance to get to know someone will not only limit your chances it will also create another divide.
Fear of dating again FODA will
After being in lockdown, many people experienced higher-than-normal levels of anxiety about going in public or meeting new people. If this is you, don’t push yourself to do anything you’re not comfortable with. Take it easy, and always take care of your needs first.
If someone you’re dating has FODA, be considerate and try to be supportive. Be aware of their challenge as you’re navigating how to date during lockdown.
