why Gen Z women don't want to be cuffed this holiday season
they just want their besties
Baby, it’s cold outside. Which means most of those who are single during the chilly months are looking to find someone to help keep themselves warm for the next little while. In other words, it’s officially cuffing season.
I’ve been writing about cuffing season for a long time! Can you believe it was introduced into the popular vernacular way back in 2011(!) on Urban Dictionary? Do people even visit that site anymore?
Anyway, Urban Dictionary defines cuffing season as the time when, “people who would normally rather be single or promiscuous find themselves along with the rest of the world desiring to be ‘cuffed’ or tied down by a serious relationship.”
Hey! Those Hallmark movies make us all feel feels, right? Who doesn’t want to kiss someone underneath the mistletoe during this time of year?
Well, actually, Gen Z women, for starters.
Yuzu, the new social app for the Asian community, surveyed its users to uncover emerging trends among Gen Z. Challenging traditional expectations, the survey reveals that Gen Z women are prioritizing platonic friendships over romantic relationships during this time.
According to the stats:
60% of Gen Z women are actively seeking platonic friendships during cuffing season (either exclusively or alongside romantic connections).
In contrast, only 40% of Gen Z men expressed the same interest.
66.7% of Gen Z women value friendships equally or more than romantic relationships during cuffing season.
Only 41.9% of Gen Z men share this sentiment.
34.1% of Gen Z women prefer fun group activities with friends (both in-person and virtual).
This is more than double the percentage of Gen Z men (13.3%) who prefer the same.
It’s kind of apropos that, Gen Z, a generation who were not yet even in high school when the term “cuffing season” popped off, is rejecting it. They’re probably all like, “What is this garbage of precariously playing with your heart all for the sake for some stupid dates at the skating rink?”
As I have reported before, Gen Z, specifically Gen Z women, definitely have their own dating patterns and habits that slightly differ from generations before — so I am not surprised by this info.
To delve deeper into these findings, I spoke with Cindy Lim, Head of Brand at Yuzu, (and a Gen Z-er) to gain her insights on what these statistics reveal about Gen Z’s dating patterns, whether they signal a societal shift, and why.
What societal or cultural shifts are contributing to this trend among Gen Z women?
We're experiencing a major shift toward authenticity and meaningful connections. Gen Z women are prioritizing genuine relationships over traditional dating norms. Societal factors like increased mental health awareness, the importance of self-care, and a desire for community are driving us to value friendships just as much as, if not more than, romantic relationships.
How do friendships provide emotional fulfillment compared to romantic relationships for this generation?
Friendships offer a safe space where we can be our true selves without the pressures that sometimes come with dating. They provide consistent support, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging. For many of us, these platonic relationships are a cornerstone of our emotional well-being.
Do you think Gen Z women are redefining traditional expectations around relationships and dating?
Absolutely! We're challenging the idea that you need a romantic partner to feel complete. Gen Z women are embracing the notion that friendships can be just as fulfilling. We're breaking down outdated norms and creating our own definitions of happiness and connection.
How has the rise of social media and digital connectivity influenced the value Gen Z places on friendships?
Social media has connected us more than ever, but it's also highlighted the difference between surface-level interactions and genuine connections. While we might have thousands of followers, we're craving real, meaningful friendships. Digital platforms, like Yuzu, help us find and nurture these authentic relationships.
Do economic factors, such as the cost of dating or financial instability, play a role in this trend?
Definitely. With financial uncertainties and the high cost of dating, investing time in friendships—which often require less financial commitment—is more appealing. It's a practical choice that still offers rich emotional rewards.
How have mental health awareness and self-care movements shaped this preference for friendships?
Mental health is a huge priority for our generation. We recognize that strong friendships are vital for emotional support and overall well-being. By surrounding ourselves with supportive friends, we're practicing self-care and promoting our own mental health.
How are Gen Z men missing out when it comes to forming relationships and friendships, according to these findings? How might Gen Z men lean into forming their own friendships and deepening bonds?
It seems like some Gen Z men might be missing out on the deeper emotional support that comes from strong friendships. We encourage them to open up, be vulnerable, and invest in their platonic relationships. Platforms like Yuzu can be a great place for everyone to build meaningful connections.
How might this shift influence industries like dating apps or media representations of relationships?
Industries will need to adapt by acknowledging the importance of platonic relationships. Dating apps might start incorporating features that help people find friendships, not just romantic partners. Media representations could showcase more stories centered around friendships and community-building.
Do you think this focus on friendships will persist, or is it more of a temporary generational phase?
I believe this focus on friendships is here to stay. As we continue to value authenticity and meaningful connections, strong friendships will remain central to our lives. It's not just a phase; it's a fundamental shift in how we view relationships.
Do you see this trend as an act of empowerment, self-preservation, or something else entirely?
It's definitely an act of empowerment. By prioritizing friendships, we're taking control of our emotional well-being and choosing relationships that genuinely enrich our lives. It's about building a supportive community that reflects our values.
What advice would you give to someone trying to strike a balance between friendships and romantic relationships? Can we have both?
Absolutely, we can and should have both! The key is open communication and setting healthy boundaries. Make sure you're investing time and energy into all the relationships that matter to you. Both friendships and romantic relationships can coexist and complement each other, contributing to a well-rounded, fulfilling life.
I agree! I think there is definitely room for both —and should be, especially if we’re looking for a romantic relationship — and that the importance of platonic friendships should and will be more prioritized in the future as we realize that no ONE completes us (well, except for ourselves, of course).
Personally, I’m excited to witness the evolution of romantic relationships, and it will be interesting to note if cuffing season ends up being something of the past (I kinda think it will be!).
Hope you’re staying warm this season — whether beside a loved one, a pet, or a weighted blanket!
Thanks for being here!
Love, Brie xoxo
Hi Brie I still have my copy of Generation X by Douglas Copeland, another talented writer from Canada 😊 and TBH these days I’ve forgotten who is X,Z, millennial and so on. I heard that he coined the term but I’m not sure it’s true. I love Life after God it’s one of my favourite books. Hope you have a Happy New Year 🧧🙏🏻 and wonderful 2025.
This is good to know! I’m a younger millennial, single, and want to have more friends so I’ll keep my Gen Z peers in mind on this front.