Move over, fairy tale romances - there's a new dating trend taking Generation Z by storm, and it's all about embracing the 'Shrek' in potential partners. Young Brits are consciously choosing to date people they describe as 'average-looking' or 'ordinary' in favour of chasing elusive perfection.
The Rise of the 'Settle-ional' Dater
Unlike previous generations who often pursued unrealistic beauty standards and romantic ideals, today's young adults are adopting what they call a 'settle-ional' approach to dating. This doesn't mean lowering standards, but rather prioritising emotional compatibility, shared values, and genuine connection over physical appearance alone.
Why Shrek Resonates With Modern Dating
The green animated ogre has become an unlikely icon for this movement. As one 24-year-old Londoner explained: "Shrek is loyal, has his own place, and knows who he is. He's not trying to be someone he's not. That's actually what matters in a partner."
This shift represents a fundamental change in how young people approach relationships. After years of swiping through curated perfection on dating apps, many are experiencing what experts call 'romantic burnout' - exhaustion from constantly pursuing unavailable or incompatible partners based primarily on looks.
The Psychological Benefits of 'Ordinary' Love
Relationship psychologists suggest this trend reflects a healthier approach to dating. Dr Eleanor Vance, a relationships researcher at University College London, notes: "Young people are recognising that lasting happiness comes from compatibility and mutual respect, not from finding the most conventionally attractive partner. This represents a maturation in dating attitudes that previous generations often took decades to develop."
What This Means for Modern Romance
- Reduced pressure to maintain 'perfect' appearances
- More focus on shared interests and life goals
- Earlier establishment of stable, committed relationships
- Less comparison with unrealistic social media standards
As dating apps begin to notice this shift, some are introducing features that prioritise personality matching and shared values over purely visual swiping. The message is clear: when it comes to finding lasting love, being real might just be the new perfect.
