Love it or hate it, dating is something we all go through in the hopes of finding that “special someone” to spend the rest of our life with–or just the rest of quarantine. But wouldn’t the whole process be so much easier (and a whole lot more fun) if you just had an instruction manual handy? Lucky for you, we do. Keep scrolling for our exclusive single lady’s guide to dating in 2021 and make sure all your dates this year are good ones.
Time to Try a Dating App
Thanks to social distancing requirements, the chances of sharing a “meet cute” vibe with a new suitor while out and about in your daily life has become a null type of situation. But, while you may not be able to mingle with other singles at the club or on the edge of a bar stool during the age of Covid, you can still very much meet new and interesting people with a little help from dating apps. While some of us have been using dating apps for years, others have avoided this sort of AI cupid at all costs. Now, however, many singles are relying on dating apps to expand their bubble while getting to know someone new. By using advanced filters, mathematical algorithms and personality surveys, dating apps can provide you with a plethora of love possibilities faster than you can cyberstalk your ex.
Update Your Photos
Whether you use a dating app or not, adding updated, flattering photos of yourself to your social media accounts is a good move. While you do want pictures with good lighting that flatter all of your best features, they by no means have to be professional. Pick some favourite (but recent) photos that represent who you are, like a selfie with your pet pooch or a pic your bestie snapped on the beach last summer. If you don’t have any photos you’re comfortable touting on your dating profile or Instagram, then set up an impromptu photo shoot with a friend to catch a few “casual” shots you can be proud of. Wear your favourite trendy jacket and sexiest high-heeled boots to give your photos a fashionable edge. And don’t forget to include one or two full-body photos of you doing something you love–like hiking the trails or yoga in the park–to give your future admirers a glimmer into the glory that is you.
Resist the Urge to Be (Too) Picky
Look, everyone has had a trying year and the last thing you should be doing is judging someone for the length of their locks or what they’re currently binging on Netflix. Instead of expecting new matches to “tick all the boxes” when it comes to your likes and dislikes in a mate, keep an open mind when getting to know them instead. After all, they might have a really good take on why they think The Princess Bride is a bad movie (like we doubt it but, hey, hear him out).
Be Proactive
Don’t wait around like some damsel in distress waiting for them to make the first move. If you see someone you like–whether online from your computer or in a 6 ft. distanced line at Starbucks–let it be known. One silver lining of this crazy pandemic we’re living through is that we’re all living through it. It’s an automatic ice breaker. Hit up your Covid crush with a how you doin’ wink and dive into the small talk. If you like what you’re hearing, then go ahead and ask for that date. There’s no rule that says you can’t make the first move. And, if you find that you’re not getting the level of matches you want from the free dating sites you’re using, consider upgrading for the added features that will get you more specified matches. It may be an investment worth your while–especially if you’re a woman who knows what she wants.
Embrace the Video Dates
When dating in person isn’t an option, then video dates are the next best thing. Of course, just like IRL dating, getting ready for an online date is going to take some prep. When planning your outfit, remember that your date is going to mostly see you from the waist up, so you’ll have to plan your date night attire around a cute and stylish top. Pick something with a little personality or flair like a patterned blouse or a flattering V-neck. Pair it with minimal accessories like fun hoop earrings or a statement necklace to keep things simple. You could even tie a stylish silk scarf in your hair for a classy vintage look. Complete your look with polished hair (no messy buns) and soft, subtle makeup. Whatever your style, take care to choose a look that will elevate your fabulousness–not distract from it.
In addition to physically looking your best, you also need to make sure you have flattering room lighting and a well-positioned monitor for an online meet and greet. Taking the time to set up a private, uncluttered area you can talk freely with your date will be well worth it. If you’re really nervous about how you’ll look to your match, ask a friend to do a practice-date Zoom with you first. That will let you know if you need to adjust the angle of your computer (height matters) or remove something personal out of the frame.
Take It Outside
If you’re still feeling good vibes after all of the online back-and-forth, the next logical step would be setting up an in-person date outdoors. Take the pressure off by planning something easy and casual like coffee at the park or dining al fresco at your favourite brunch place. Lowering expectations for an “epic first date” will keep the vibe fun while still allowing plenty of opportunity for sparks to fly. Plus, if you’re not feeling good vibes, you can always blame your discomfort on the weather and hightail it out of there.
Remember to Have Fun
Playing the dating game may not be easy, but it doesn’t have to be hard either. There are ways to make it fun–pandemic or no. Take the pressure of “finding the one” off your plate for now and instead focus on truly connecting with people. Enjoy making new connections from all over the world or just in your own city. Either way, you’re bound to grow as a person. And you’ll learn a little something about what you truly want in a life partner along the way.
