For years, drinking and dating made classic bedfellows: First dates were almost always at bars and liquid courage was key for muddling awkward vibes. But the pandemic and the rise of wellness culture have uncorked new attitudes toward alcohol. While some people are drinking more than ever, others are sober-curious or abstaining entirely. The effects are bubbling over onto the dating scene, and singles are taking notice. In Shooting Your Shot, Bustle explores the changing norms around imbibing on dates. — Hannah Orenstein, Deputy Lifestyle & Wellness Editor
Between The Sheets
The only buzz came from a vibrator.
Drinking On A Date Is The Latest Viral Ick
Like smoking before it, many feel that the constant need to drink has become excessive.
Meanwhile, At The Bar...
TikToker Delaney Rowe Doesn’t Mind A DM Slide
“I do have a personality that exists outside the stuff that I put out online.”
Tinx Says Clubbing Is A "Dying Art"
The TikTok star chats about partying, dating, and the pre-sex ritual she swears by.
Vanderpump's Katie Maloney Is Ready To Reclaim "Tequila Katie"
The reality star chats about her approach to first dates and Tom Sandoval's bartending skills.
Brooke Schofield Wishes She Got The Ick More Easily
The content creator isn’t shy about looking for a serious relationship.
On TikTok, Kaitlin Reagan Gets Vulnerable About Dating After Loss
"I don't have time to have a surface-level date. I want to sit down and pick somebody's brain."
TikToker Brynne Marie Is Done Kissing & Telling To Her Followers
The #BeautyTok queen is open about her sexuality and skincare routine, but future relationships are off the table.
Fannita Leggett Loves Being "The #1 Menace In The Nation”
“It's terrible out here, but you got to keep swimming.”
Sofia Franklyn Thinks This Drink Order Is The Ultimate Dating Ick
Plus her advice for filling those first-date awkward silences.