A seismic shift is reshaping social landscapes worldwide, and this time, the target isn't a fashion trend but a fundamental life choice. The conversation ignited when British Vogue published an opinion piece by Chante Joseph last week, provocatively titled: 'Is having a boyfriend embarrassing now?'
The article, which quickly spiralled into a global phenomenon, argued that constant "my boyfriend" content on social media is a major turn-off. Joseph noted an overwhelming consensus from women, both single and partnered, that being with a man often feels like a guilty act.
The Australian Perspective on Modern Singlehood
The sentiment has found a strong echo in Australia, where women are championing the freedom and self-discovery that comes with being unattached. Selina Sterker, a 29-year-old from Fremantle, is a prime example. Recently divorced, she believes the trend towards singlehood is a direct response to a broken dating culture.
"I think it's really cool that we've all decided that we'd rather be single and on our own because nothing is more lonely than being with the wrong person," Ms Sterker said. She credits her single status for significant personal growth, a thriving career, and the ability to travel and forge deep friendships.
For younger Australians like Emily, a 22-year-old from Perth, the change is a relief. She points to dating apps as a key factor, having turned romance into a superficial "swipe-fest." The societal pressure to be coupled up has vanished, allowing women to romanticise their independence.
"It's good that there is no longer pressure from society because you don't have to be forced into a relationship if you don't actually like the person," Emily explained. She added that constantly flaunting a boyfriend is now considered "cringe," as it suggests he has become her entire personality.
Expert Insight into the Societal Shift
This cultural movement is backed by academic research. Dr Scott Devenport, a relationship expert from Curtin University, confirmed that women are actively choosing singlehood in 2025.
"The women that we worked with on the research expressed that they realised that a relationship wasn't really what they wanted," Dr Devenport stated. He emphasised that society's mindset has fundamentally shifted, and being single is no longer stigmatised.
Dr Devenport attributes this change, in part, to the influence of social media. Unlike traditional media that often revolves around love stories, social platforms champion individualism and self-representation. "The accounts that people are seeing these days are romanticising individualism and being single," he said.
Even women in committed relationships, like Assina Mwanangoi, a 31-year-old from Perth who is engaged and expecting, agree with the core message. She believes a partner should be an addition to a woman's life, not the source of her self-worth.
Pop Culture Mirrors the Singlehood Trend
The timing of the Vogue article aligns with a noticeable pivot in pop culture. While Taylor Swift's latest album, 'The Life of a Showgirl', surprised fans with its focus on happy love, the response was notably tepid compared to her past heartbreak anthems.
In contrast, Sabrina Carpenter's album 'Man's Best Friend', led by the hit single 'Manchild', has been a massive success. Her sharp, witty takedowns of failed relationships have propelled her to new heights of stardom, resonating with an audience that increasingly values independence over partnership.
This collective cultural moment begs the question: is being single the ultimate status symbol in 2025? For a growing number of women, the answer appears to be a resounding yes.
