Boyfriends Are Out of Style in 2025
Skinny jeans and ankle socks have been declared outdated, but the latest trend to fall out of favor is more complex: boyfriends are officially out of style. Unlike low-rise jeans, they aren’t expected to make a nostalgic return anytime soon — at least not until “they start acting right.”
The Viral Conversation
This discussion ignited after British Vogue published an opinion piece by Chante Joseph titled, Is having a boyfriend embarrassing now?
“If someone so much as says ‘my boyf–’, on social media, they’re muted. There’s nothing I hate more than following someone for fun, only for their content to become ‘my boyfriend’-ified suddenly,” Joseph wrote.
Through an Instagram poll, Joseph found an overwhelming feeling among both single and partnered women that being with a man felt like an almost guilty choice.
Widespread Reaction
Shortly after publishing, Joseph shared her article on TikTok, unaware her words would spark a global social movement. The video was rapidly viewed and shared worldwide, with many women expressing gratitude for "finally saying what everyone was thinking."
Social Media Impact
Following the viral spread, social media praised the piece as “peak journalism,” even suggesting that Manhattan’s iconic columnist Carrie Bradshaw would celebrate the sentiment with pride.
Author’s summary: This viral discussion reveals a cultural shift where being in a relationship with a man is increasingly seen as outdated or embarrassing, sparking widespread public debate and social media reaction.