As we enter 2023, singles everywhere are looking forward to a brand new year of dating. This year, it’s all about being your true self and enjoying the full dating experience. To give you a taste of what to expect, Badoo teamed up with dating and relationship coach Kate Mansfield to provide her expert view on our predicted dating trends of 2023. Read on to get the gossip on what could be in store for your dating life this year…

Twenty Twenty Me

2023 is all about owning your single status. A survey by Badoo* found that 65% of singles say they see it as an empowered decision, and almost three-quarters (76%) say they enjoy exploring what’s out there without the pressure of rushing into a relationship. “The pandemic monumentally shifted the landscape of dating and relationships. It forced many people to sit with themselves and to face the truth about how unhealthy and unfulfilling many of their connections had been,” says Kate. Sounds likely, as 62% say they’d rather focus on themselves and be single, than force a connection just for the sake of being with someone.

Goblin-timacy

Oxford Dictionary’s word of the year for 2022 was ‘Goblin-Mode’** (a behaviour that’s unapologetically self-indulgent, typically in a way that rejects social norms), and in 2023, Badoo predicts we’ll see this movement taking over the dating world. The trend is all about authenticity, as four in five daters (82%) feel it’s more important to make an impression as their true selves than put on an act to impress, while three quarters (76%) say they feel more comfortable than ever dating on their own terms and not succumbing to societal expectation. “The dating world is tired of filters, we want raw and uncut - it’s the new sexy!” says Kate.

Meme Teaming

We say that there are only five love languages, but thanks to the ever-evolving world of memes, there’s a new love language in town. Badoo’s new research reveals almost two-thirds (63%) of singles find it attractive if a match sends them a meme or funny image/video, as it means they have a sense of humour. Another 58% admit they feel special when receiving a meme, as it means their date has thought of them. 

“Memes, Emojis, voice and video clips in dating conversations are an excellent way to showcase your sense of humour and create a deeper and more personal connection. Your unique personality can come across in a way that isn’t possible by text or direct message alone. Memes instead can help convey a warmth and humour that will enhance emotional depth,” says Kate.

Anecdating

Kate says: “It’s a good idea to consider a specific vision for the kind of relationship that you want long term - BUT [it’s also important] to also go out and have fun, and enjoy each date without attachment to the outcome. Enter: Anecdating–the dating trend that’s all about enjoying the process, even when dating’s not perfect. 73% of singles said they like the idea of dating without any specific goals, and another two-thirds (65%) agree that even when a date doesn’t go as planned, they at least know they’ll be left with a funny or memorable experience to share with their friends. According to Kate, “By going into a date with an open mind, you’ll feel more relaxed and be able to better enjoy the moment, rather than get caught up in any expectations.”

Daylight Saving

2023 will be all about being more intentional with how we spend our money - and making the most of the daytime to do so. As living costs continue to rise, 58% of singles are opting for daytime dates to dodge £7 pints and swanky dinners. What’s more, 45% reveal they prefer to date during the day because there’s less pressure to drink - primarily because drinking is so expensive. 

Kate says: “Daytime dates are often more casual and don’t have to last so long - helping you to date at your own pace, without feeling pressured to commit to an entire evening. Sober dating can also be a great idea, not only to save money but also to make a clear-headed decision about the other person. Alcohol can sometimes lead to lapsed judgement and you might risk rushing into something that you later regret.”

Silver Foxing

According to Kate, “With more avenues for love now available to them, we’ll no doubt see a huge spike in older singles taking ownership of their happiness - embracing their later years as an opportunity for adventure and romance.”

Badoo’s survey found that 81% of singles agree the wonderful world of dating shouldn’t be any less exciting as you get older. Two-thirds (64%) of over 40s are more open to using dating apps to find companionship than ever before, and half (48%) say dating is easier and more exciting than when they were younger, thanks to technology.

Kate says: “We have seen an explosion of older daters in the past 5 years, as people are getting more self-aware, leaving relationships that aren’t working for them and seeking new companions. As older people are getting more tech-savvy, open and educated about online dating, I predict that this trend will only continue to snowball.”

Lapstopping

Badoo’s survey found that daters are making the most of flexible working by dating during their working day (47%), enjoying mid-week breakfast, lunch, and coffee dates. In fact, a third (33%) of singles have or would invite a date to join them whilst working remotely, and another 27% have or would bring their laptop out on a date, just in case they stay over, and they can work remotely from their date’s place the next day.

Kate says: “Remote working has revolutionised the dating world. More singles are taking advantage of flexible working to schedule dates over lunch or even work together during the day, which is a great way to squeeze in extra time with that special someone. Working side by side with a date also enables you to gain some insight into their communication style, helping you to better understand and empathise with each other and establish deeper connections.“

So there you have it - all the dating trends we predict will take over in 2023. Ultimately, this year will be about dating how you want, when you want; letting go of any expectations and societal norms, and harnessing your best single energy for a year like no other. Have fun!

*Research conducted by BAMM of 1,000 participants aged between 18-60, between Monday 9th January - Monday 16th January

**’Goblin Mode’ - Oxford Dictionary’s 2022 Word of the Year