As 2024 draws to a close, one thing remains clear—dating continues to evolve. Tinder’s Year in Swipe is back, revealing the standout trends that defined the past year and offering a look ahead at what singles can expect in 2025. This year, daters have embraced clarity and intention, ready to head into the new year with unapologetic goals for their romantic lives.
Modern approach to dating
Amid social and cultural changes, today’s singles are focused on meaningful connections that reflect their values and offer a sense of authenticity. As people seek relationships that resonate on a deeper level, Tinder is responding by rolling out the Year in Swipe Vision Board—an innovative tool designed to help users reflect on their 2024 dating experiences and set goals for the upcoming year. This interactive mood board feature, set to launch later this week, will allow users to compile personalized recaps of their dating journey and establish their intentions for 2025.
A recent survey revealed that nearly 20% of singles globally are turning to vision boards as a way to visualize and manifest their ideal relationships for the year ahead. Tinder’s new feature will support these aspirations by including social filters, enabling users to share their 2025 dating goals with friends and family and fostering a sense of shared intention.
Dating trends of 2024: Loud-looking, kiss-mets, and nano-ships
Melissa Hobley, Chief Marketing Officer at Tinder, described the defining trends of 2024 as “a reflection of singles’ newfound commitment to intentionality in their dating lives. People are clear about what they want and are unafraid to pursue it.” Hobley continued, “This shift has sparked three key trends: Loud Looking, Kiss-mets, and Nano-ships. These trends are all about empowering choice and creating a dating experience that feels true to the individual.”
- Loud Looking: Singles have moved away from ambiguous dating profiles, instead choosing to be vocal and specific about what they are looking for. Whether identifying as “Man in Finance” or “Gamer Girlfriend,” daters are confidently expressing their desires and expectations.
- Kiss-mets: Inspired by the term “kismet,” meaning destiny or fate, Kiss-mets represent the joy of spontaneous encounters. This trend embraces the idea of serendipity and the thrill of unexpected connections—a modern update on the classic “meet cute.”
- Nano-ships: The idea that even the smallest interactions can hold significance has gained traction. Singles are finding value in tiny moments, whether these connections lead to something serious or simply provide lighthearted fun. These micro-moments are proving that even fleeting engagements can lead to meaningful possibilities.
Dating trends for 2025
The trend towards purposeful dating reflects a departure from last year’s emphasis on casual exploration and “dating for the plot.” In 2024, singles have been leading with purpose, crafting dating experiences that align with their true selves. The new tools and trends support this shift, encouraging people to be upfront about their expectations and seek out connections that resonate with them on a deeper level.
Tinder’s Year in Swipe Vision Board aims to assist users in harnessing this new mindset, making it easier to reflect on past experiences and set intentions for the future. As we move toward 2025, singles are poised to continue their journey with confidence and clarity, embracing the idea that dating is not just about finding romance—it’s about finding what aligns with who they truly are.
The rise of ‘Hopecore’ in dating
Tinder’s 2024 Year in Swipe report reveals a new trend that underscores a shift towards positivity in dating: “hopecore.” Singles are prioritizing optimism and joy, seeking relationships that uplift and inspire.
“Amid political and economic challenges, this cultural shift towards optimism in dating is very encouraging,” said Tinder’s spokesperson, Dunn. “People are valuing traits like trustworthiness and loyalty, aligning with the rising trend of ‘golden retriever energy’—partners who embody dependability and positivity.”
