Valentine’s Day Gen Z style

Well, our dear (and less expensive) friends, let us tell you, getting ready for a date in the modern age is quite the process, especially if you're a member of Generation Z. You see, these young'uns have grown up in a world of technology and social media, and so their dating game is quite different from previous generations.

So, let's say our Gen Z-er has swiped their way to a match on the dating app, Tinder. The first thing they'll likely do is obsessively check their phone for any last-minute messages from their match. They'll likely spend hours trying to figure out the perfect outfit, because, let's face it, first impressions are everything. And with the help of social media, they might check the Instagram of their match to make sure they're not wearing the same clothes as them on the date.

Once they've picked out the perfect outfit, they'll likely spend an excessive amount of time on their hair and makeup, because again, first impressions are everything. And let's not forget about the all-important bathroom mirror selfie, which they'll likely post to their Instagram story with a clever caption to let their friends know they're off on a date.

With their hair and makeup on point, they'll likely spend the next hour or so trying to come up with witty and clever conversation starters because, to be honest, small talk is the enemy of all social engagements.

Finally, with their outfit, hair, makeup, and conversation starters all sorted, our Gen Z-er will likely hop in an Uber or Lyft and make their way to the date, all the while checking their phone to make sure they're not running late.

In conclusion, it seems getting ready for a date in the modern age is quite the process, especially for our tech-savvy Gen Z-ers. Obsessing over appearance, posting to your Facebook story, and logging in to ChatGPT to try out some great romantic AI one liners may not be for everyone. But, when you boil it down, isn't that what dating has always been all about—looking your best, making a great first impression, and being able to maintain a witty conversation?

Valentine's Day, the holiday of love and romance, has undergone quite the transformation over the years, with each generation approaching it in their own unique way. So, without further ado, let me take you on a journey through the ways that Gen Z is shaking things up.

Online dating platforms:

Now, in the days of yore (known as life before Tinder), one would have to rely on the good old fashioned way of meeting someone, you know, like at a social gathering or through a mutual friend. But not for these tech-savvy Millennials and Gen Z-ers, oh no. They've got online dating platforms like Tinder, Bumble, and OkCupid to help them in their quest for love. And let us tell you, they're not shy about using them; they'll filter through potential matches like sorting machines, basing preferences on their interests, location, and other characteristics to find someone who is compatible. And it's not just heterosexuals that are using these platforms either; many apps have implemented features for the LGBTQ+ community, making it easier for them to find a compatible partner.

Social media:

Ah, social media, the bane of our existence and yet, the Millennials and Gen Z-ers can't seem to get enough of it. They use these platforms to connect with potential partners by following, liking or even DMing (fortune favors the brave) with people they find interesting. They also join groups or communities that align with their interests, such as LGBTQ+ groups or disability groups on Discord or Facebook, to increase the likelihood of finding a compatible partner. And let's not forget about the all-important GM then "slide into the DMs' ' ' move, a classic millennial dating play.

Inclusivity:

Now, previous generations may have had a more narrow-minded approach when it comes to dating and relationships, but not these on-trend go-getters. They are more open-minded and accepting of different lifestyles, and they have grown up in a more inclusive society. They are more likely to date someone from a different race or ethnicity, and they are more accepting of different sexual orientations and gender identities. They also tend to be more understanding and accommodating of those with disabilities, and they are more likely to find partners that cater to their personality and needs.

Casual dating:

In the olden golden days, one would court a person for months, if not years, before taking the next step and getting married. Meet the parents, attend chapel, and buy a turkey. But not for these Millennials and Gen Z-ers, oh no. They've got a more relaxed approach to dating and relationships, and they're not as focused on traditional relationship milestones, such as marriage. They view Valentine's Day as a holiday for celebrating all types of relationships, including platonic ones, and often opt for group gatherings or nights out with friends instead of traditional romantic dinners.