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Swiping Struggles? Top Dating Dilemmas Revealed Swiping Struggles? Top Dating Dilemmas Revealed

We've done our homework and carried out exclusive research on what it's really like to find love (or maybe just a casual fling) in today's world. From the do's and don'ts of dating apps to the hottest dating trends in every state, consider us your ultimate wingwomen.

But wait, that's not all! We know that first impressions matter, so we're serving up some major fashion advice to help you slay on your first date and beyond. From the most popular date fashion trends to head-turning pieces you'll want in your wardrobe, we've got everything you need to make that first impression unforgettable.

For this research, we surveyed 1,000 married and 3,000 general population respondents to reveal the recipe for success from the long-term relationship experts themselves and where daters across the country might be making the wrong moves…

Dating App Winning Stats Dating App Winning Stats

Are you suffering from long-term dating app dilemmas? We've got you! We've got the lowdown from married couples who met on dating apps to unveil the do's and don'ts that could be making your profile swipe left material.

From Swiping Right To Saying 'I Do'

We also got insight from people currently on dating apps to unveil their top preferences and habits while on the journey to find 'the one.'

Dating App Preferences

If you're currently using the top dating app of choice in the US, Tinder, listen up for the profile features that are most swipe-worthy…

According to the data, there are three key profile features that Tinder users are on the lookout for: your personality description, age, and smile. So, for swiping success, let those awesome traits shine through and give potential matches a glimpse into the unique person you are!

Once you've met your match and want to move away from your dating app of choice, over 65% of daters opt for classic text messages to keep the conversation alive. More social media savvy? After text messages, 1 in 12 daters will move to Facebook, and then it's a tie for WhatsApp and Snapchat.

Dating Trends In Each State Revealed Dating Trends In Each State Revealed

Get ready to dive straight into the dating game across the US because we've got the inside scoop on what's hot and what's not in each state.

We've got everything covered when it comes to dating advice in 2024. From the most popular first date activity to the major red flag topics to avoid and even how much is considered too much to spend on a first date. We've also got all the tea on how long it takes each state on average to say those magical three words, "I love you."

Dating Trends In Every State Map

Over 1 in 3 daters swear by a coffee date for first date success, followed closely by a walk or hike and a restaurant meal. But married couples have a different take on what makes for the best first date experience.

According to those coupled-up, the top three first date activities are a romantic restaurant meal with over 1 in 3 agreeing, cozying up at the movies, and sipping drinks at a bar. So why not take a page from their book and add some traditional flair to your plans?

Along with choosing your activity, our data shows that there are some top date considerations. Number one, choose an entertaining activity (36%), number two, making sure you impress your date (16%) and number three, keep the date low cost (12%). 1 in 20 go straight to developing an exit plan- have you got your getaway car ready?

Thinking about what to say on your first date? Well, there's an obvious red flag topic to avoid, and that's admitting to ghosting or cheating in previous relationships, with almost two-thirds (62%) of respondents agreeing. To keep your date light and fun, avoid asking very personal questions (49%) and getting into conspiracy theories, with over two-fifths (41%) of people saying 'don't go there.'

When it comes to footing the bill, there are no hard and fast rules, including how much you should spend. However, over half (52%) of the general population respondents said $51-$150 is too much to spend on a first date, so keep this in mind for your chosen date activity.

If your first date leads to long-term success, our research revealed that you'll wait an average of 3-6 months before the 'L' word is mentioned. 1 in 8 respondents said they never uttered the words 'I love you' to their most recent partner...But hey, we're all on our own love journey, right?

Top First Date Fashion Fits Top First Date Fashion Fits

Picking the right outfit for a first date is tricky, with 50% of our general population respondents sharing that they put effort into researching an outfit ahead of a first date! But fear not because we're here to help you navigate this tricky fashion scene. Check out the top first-date fashion trends below that are guaranteed to turn heads and have your date vibing with your style.

Dress To Impress: Top First Date Fashion Fits

No pressure, but having the right outfit is crucial as nearly 1 in 10 people say they have considered or have left a first date because their date wasn't dressed well...

Thinking about how you can achieve the most popular first date fashion styles? Almost a quarter of people said they spend hours pre-planning and researching their first date 'fit. If you're going for a smart casual date vibe, opt for a corset jumpsuit that'll have heads turning. If that's not for you, you can never go wrong with jeans and your favorite going out top!

Now, if casual chic is what grabs your eye, reach for a timeless blazer - a true wardrobe staple. Pair it with your go-to jeans for a stylish yet laid-back look. Want to add a touch of glam? Check out a flattering blazer dress for an added touch of chic.

A minimalist first date fashion 'fit came in third in the ranking, and if you lean more toward a monochromatic look, this is the style for you! Keep it clean and classic with a white T-shirt with jeans or shorts. But don't forget to complete the minimalist look with an on-trend trench coat - the perfect finishing touch!

Gen Z Spill The Dating Tea Gen Z Spill The Dating Tea

Gen Z is known for breaking norms, and dating is no different. Over 30% agree they're most likely to swipe right for other users who keep it casual with their outfit style, followed by a smart sweater and glasses look, and then athletic wear.

The perfect date for Gen Z, you ask? Their favorite date day of the week is a Friday, and over 40% prioritize an entertaining activity, so make sure you bring that next-level fun.

1 in 3 Gen Zers agree on playing it safe with a first date coffee, but there's a major red flag first date conversation topic for this generation; over 75% say by admitting to ghosting or cheating on a previous partner, you're getting a one-way ticket to unmatch. This is followed by asking very personal questions, such as how much your date weighs (60%) and politics (42%). Yikes!

Before they head out, nearly a quarter (23%) of Gen Zers are getting their date outfit inspiration from Pinterest, making boards filled with looks to slay! They'll also check out TikTok (22%) and Instagram (12%) to keep their fingers on the pulse of the latest date fashion trends.

If you're dating a Gen Z right now, get ready to exercise some patience. It's not going to be a rushed love story as they wait just an average of 3-6 months before they say 'I love you.' They're happy to cut you off quickly too, ouch! Over two-thirds (67%) admitted they've been disappointed after meeting someone on a first date, so don't be afraid to lay it all out on the table to see if you're both vibing on the same wavelength!

Shop First Date Fashion at PrettyLittleThing

Now that you're armed with all the deets on what to do (and what NOT to do) when it comes to your dating app profile, the dating trends in each state, and the outfit styles that are hot right now, it's time to step up your first date fashion game! We're all about celebrating your unique style and empowering you to be your confident, bold, and authentic self, so find your first date style with us. Check out PrettyLittleThing for the top picks of first date fashion, including trending dresses, two-piece sets, and corset tops.

Methodology

We surveyed 1,000 US married respondents, grouped to those who have been married between 2 and 10+ years, and 3,000 US general population respondents on their relationships and opinions towards dating in today's society. This included gathering insight into dating app culture and first-date preferences. Questions were multiple choice, with the option to provide qualitative data where needed. Respondents were split by multiple demographics, including age, generation, and the state they reside in, to find key statistics about the dating landscape in the US.