Dating isn’t just about swiping anymore. It’s about community, vibes, and real connections. BLK, the world’s largest dating app for the Black community, just dropped their 2025 dating trends, and they’re what you need to keep on your radar for the new year.
2025 Dating Trends
From finding your festival squad to curating dopamine-packed dates, these 2025 dating trends reflect how Black singles are reshaping modern romance.
1. “Crew”sing
Dating apps are leveling up! “Crew”sing is all about finding your tribe, not just your soulmate. Whether it’s brunch buddies or a Coachella crew, Gen-Z is building connections beyond romance. It’s a no-pressure way to vibe with people who just get you.
2. Hobby Homies
Forget small talk—this trend is for singles who want to bond over passions. Cooking, skating, gaming, or whatever makes your heart sing, this trend is about connecting with someone who matches your energy. It’s the perfect setup for relationships to grow organically from shared interests.
3. Dopamine Dates
Say goodbye to boring dinners. Dopamine dates are all about sparking joy with unique experiences. Think escape rooms, improv nights, or a street art tour. These dates bring the fun, ignite chemistry, and create unforgettable memories.
4. Blaze & Bond
420-friendly singles, this is for you! Blaze & bond is all about relaxed meetups over a smoke session. It’s chill, no pressure, and a vibe for those who prefer their dates as laid-back as they are.
5. Collabor-dating
For the creatives, dating now doubles as content creation. Whether it’s co-producing TikToks, building joint playlists, or snapping photo dumps, collabor-dating makes dating an opportunity to create and connect. Your love life = aesthetic goals.
6. Flex Dating
Busy girls, this one’s for you. Flex dating is about short, low-stakes meetups—grab a smoothie, crush a quick workout, or run errands together. It’s real-life dating with no pressure to overcommit.
7. Freak Matching
Inspired by Tinashe’s viral hit, freak matching celebrates finding someone who matches your energy—romantically, sexually, or just in vibe. It’s about letting your quirks shine and connecting with someone who’s all about your full spectrum.
8. Shadow Phasing
Testing the waters in a new relationship? Shadow phasing keeps it low-key. Cropped photos, subtle posts—it’s a way to nurture a connection before putting it in the spotlight.
9. Offline Only
Remember life before the swipe? Offline only is bringing that real-life energy back. Dates are phone-free, focused on face-to-face conversations and genuine connections. It’s intimate, nostalgic, and oh-so-refreshing.
10. Soft Life Standards
Black women are redefining luxury in love in this 2025 dating trend. Inspired by influencers like Jayda Wayda and couples like Ciara and Russell Wilson, soft life standards prioritize respect, thoughtfulness, and indulgence. From surprise vacations to intentional acts of love, it’s about finding a partner who matches your energy and celebrates you daily.