The British dating culture through the centuries is as varied and interesting as the culture of the country itself. Unlike other nations, social status used to play a key role in the way the British went on dates. It would even be an understatement to say that Britain was once a class-conscious country.
Modern Britain, however, has now become more inclusive and multicultural. The LGBTQ+ community members, for example, are enjoying a sense of sexual liberation that first started in the 1960s.
But of course, some traditions still linger to this day, especially status-wise. How people dress up continues to be dependent on status. The millennials living in metropolitan areas are more fashion-conscious. This is the group that loves to go on dates wearing their designer pieces.
On the other hand, upper-class, middle-class, or older people tend to opt for more formal outfits for social occasions, such as when grabbing a posh meal in the West End of London or attending Royal Ascot’s race meetings.
While the British have long been known to display the infamous stiff upper lip every time an adversity or challenge pops up, under this stern look you’ll find a sociable and friendly group of people. And once you master the art of flirting in the British dating culture, you’ll find yourself in for a sweet surprise.
Understanding British Dating Culture
Believe it or not, online dating is quite popular among British people, with most couples meeting this way. It means that if you have plans to date someone from Britain but you have no idea where to begin your search, online dating sites are no doubt your best choice. The good news is that there are now specific online dating sites and apps that cater to British users and their admirers.
But before you get all too excited about dating that British guy or girl of your dreams, first, it’s important to make yourself more familiar with the British dating culture.
The Reserved Nature of the British and Its Impact on Flirting
Many stereotypes about the British people are generally inaccurate. However, there is some truth behind the common stereotype about the reserved nature of the British. It’s not the case for all British people, since many of them can be quite upfront and confident.
However, British society tends to be a bit reserved compared to others. They are very polite and it may even take several dates before a British warms up and becomes more open and relaxed to his or her date.
It can be a bit strange or even weird, especially for those who came from countries such as the USA. This reserved nature is also the reason why flirting with these people can get a bit tricky. They don’t show their emotions in public so there’s no easy way to tell if that cute guy or girl at the bar is into you or not.
But the good news is that as long as you’re patient, it will all soon pay off. Once you get to know a British person, you’ll be surprised how kind, gracious, and witty they can be!
Dating Norms and Expectations in the UK
Stereotyping an entire nation may sound a bit unfair but there are indeed some behavioural traits, dating norms, and expectations you’ll come across when dating in the UK.
· Public Display of Affection
As mentioned earlier, the British people tend to be more reserved compared to most Western cultures. It just means that public displays of affection may not be as common as you’re used to in other countries. So don’t take offense if it feels like you’re getting the cold shoulder from your date. It’s just that they’re not used to being too showy.
· Politeness
British people have long been known for their unfailing politeness. If they bump into each other out in the streets, both sides will apologize profusely several times. This politeness is also observed in the dating scene.
During the first date or so, British people offer a handshake as a form of greeting. But the moment they become comfortable enough and they get to know the other person better, a kiss on the cheek is common.
· Chivalry and Splitting the Bill
Chivalry remains alive and kicking in the UK. British men are quite gentlemen, especially on dates. They will hold the door open for their dates, lend their jacket if the woman gets cold, or insist to pay the bill.
However, gender equality is also quite strong in the country, with most couples splitting the bill after the first several dates. Sharing meals when dining out, however, isn’t as common as in other nations.
· Date Outfits
There’s no need to worry or bother a lot with the clothes to wear when going on dates in the UK. British people mostly opt for smart casual clothes, and some even go on dates straight from work. UK professionals present themselves smartly, though. People who don’t even wear suits to work often stick with casual blazers, button-up shirts, formal shoes, and smart jumpers.
Role of Humor, Sarcasm, and Banter in British Flirting
Every country has its unique sense of humour. They find things funnier compared to their neighbouring nations. It’s exactly the case with the British people. They are known to enjoy sarcasm and their sense of irony, popularly called banter. This trait is common in the country but might be a bit difficult to interpret.
The British men, in particular, love jokes a lot but their style of humor might be different from what you’re used to. These people like a witty but dry sense of humor. It’s even a bit sarcastic because they talk straightforwardly.
If you ever try to join the British dating scene, you’ll realize right away how sarcastic British people can get. You might find it a bit odd at first, but sarcasm in Britain is a completely acceptable kind of humor.
It means that if your date is from Britain and you notice how sarcastic they are, don’t feel too offended. You can even try to come up with your sarcastic jokes as these will probably impress your date. And the moment you learn how to put up with the British banter, you’re a step closer to winning your date’s heart!
Decoding British Flirting Signals
Although British men often come off as a bit reserved and stoic at first, it doesn’t mean that they lack a fiery streak of intrigue and passion.
The key to unlocking the secrets of the way British men show their interest is to pay close attention to some unspoken signals that will let you know if they are into you or not.
Everything all boils down to language for British guys. One of the sure-fire signs that a British man finds you interesting is if he makes the effort to get close to your side. He’ll probably lean in for a talk, position himself at an angle where his shoulder points toward you, or simply linger around you until you finally take notice of him.
The body language of British men reflects how they feel. If he looks at you with his smouldering eyes and constantly touches your hand or arm during conversations, he’s likely interested in you.
When a British man is truly into you, he will also start to mirror your behaviour and echo your interests right back at you. if he follows your lead on certain topics like music choices or food during your date, it’s a telltale sign that something clicks between you two and this might lead to somewhere special.
One more common sign that there is a mutual attraction between a girl and a guy in Britain is if the lady makes the effort to impress the gent through her hairstyle, makeup, or clothes. Even if it’s been made as subtle as possible, he will surely take notice even if you don’t compliment or talk about them out loud. British guys can pick up even on such small details but won’t be too expressive about it.
Another notable giveaway that a guy likes what he sees lies in how his eyes follow every moment of his date. If you notice eye contact that lingers even after they’re done talking often indicates that interest is brewing under the surface.
At the end of the day, since everyone expresses affection and feelings in different ways, never expect that all British people will have the same behaviours and will use the same flirting signals. What’s important here is to understand how your date feels about you through their distinct mannerisms. This will ultimately allow you to just let yourself go with the flow and enjoy the company of each other.
Humor and Wit in British Flirting
A sense of humour for the British is better when it’s dryer. It means that guffawing isn’t necessary if you’re trying to flirt and your date made a joke. This isn’t desirable at all nor do you need to smile. Your British date may find you more interesting if you can keep a straight face throughout the joke. They also love a good pun that tests your wit and makes you think on your feet.
Conclusion
The British dating culture might not be the same as what you are used to but this is what makes it even more charming. So the next time you decide to date someone from Britain, make sure that you always keep your wits with you!