Millennials and Generation Z are set to embrace small signs of adoration over larger-than-life romantic gestures, according to Bumble’s 2025 dating predictions.
The dating app Bumble is reportedly used by 1.44 million adults in the UK alone.
And whether you’re someone who is using the platform to find a future partner or just pair with a lifelong friend, the app really does make it easier than ever to forge relationships with others in your area.
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As 2024 draws to its definite close, the company has detailed exactly what singletons can expect from dating in 2025.
This includes what trends could emerge in the next few months, taking over from this year’s big hitters like the ‘Ben stage’ and the ‘Rebecca Syndrome’.
One of these is the divisive idea of having a micro-romance. Below, we’ve detailed exactly what the trend entails, why experts believe we’re embracing it and some examples.
What does an expert say about dating in 2025?
Selby Drummond, Bumble’s Chief Marketing Officer said: “2025 is going to be a transitional year for dating and we can see this in how single people, especially women, are getting very clear about what they want and need, and what they are no longer willing to tolerate when it comes to dating and relationships.
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“What we’re seeing is a big shift towards real-ness, people are being increasingly more transparent, future-proofing themselves, and taking the time to find somebody to support their unique interests, committing to a relationship,” she continued.
“Regardless of whether they are looking for something casual, something serious, or something in between, these trends reflect what we’ve heard from our community, which is that they are looking for engaging conversations that lead to authentic real-life connections.”
What is a micro-mance?
The Say Anything… boombox serenade is officially out, friends. Lloyd Dobler, your romantic gestures are no longer required in 2025.
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Instead, singletons are reportedly interested in experiencing small, heartfelt moments with their future flames.
If you prefer simple gestures like your S.O picking up the bill or them texting you a meme with the caption ‘saw this, thought of you’, then you are already tapping into the rising micro-mancing trend.
Micro-mancing prioritises simple gestures over those affectionate, larger-than-life moments usually depicted in the movies.
So channelling Heath Ledger and singing ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’ in the high school stadium is apparently off the cards.
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Standing up and confessing your love for a movie star during a bustling London press conference like Hugh Grant in Notting Hill is also done. Damn.
What do experts say about micro-mancing?
According to statistics, 86 percent of 40,000 polled Bumble users agree that showing love and affection includes sending each other social media posts, curating Spotify playlists, and taking your dog out for a walk with a potential Lothario.
On Bumble, ‘The quickest way to my heart’ is one of the top-used dating prompts on the app - a testament to the dating trend’s rising popularity.
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"In today's world, where life is often a whirlwind, people are realising that true romance doesn't need a spotlight,” said Aashmeen Munjaal, a Delhi-based mental health and relationship expert.
“Grand gestures can feel like rare highlights, but micro-mancing builds an ongoing story of love. It's authentic, personal, and doesn't require the perfect moment—because love, after all, is in the every day,"
Echoing Aashmeen’s sentiments is Ruchi Ruuh, a relationship counsellor. The specialist told India Today that partaking in micro-mancing means you're more excited about finding joy in the smallest of moments.
“Micro-mance emphasises an ongoing, consistent idea of romance, which is more authentic.
“These acts don't require elaborate planning or significant expense."
Examples of micro-mancing
We’ve previously mentioned some forms of micro-mancing, including making playlists and sending each other videos and texts - but there are so many more examples.
You could share an inside joke, help them take photographs for Instagram, or even mend an item of clothing.
Essentially, anything that could be deemed thoughtful is a form of micro-mancing, so let your imagination run wild.
Topics: Advice, Dating, Dating trends, Sex and Relationships
Ella Scott