Love & Sex

Cuffing season has begun and this is why

scene from the movie The Holiday
Winter time has begun and as the leaves fall from the trees, we cautiously swap our summer wardrobe for cozy sweaters and warm scarves. With the temperatures dropping, we are not only eager for the latest Ugg trend, finding the perfect knitwear or teddy coat to hide in, but we are also more inclined to seek warmth. Together.

Americans have given this phenomenon a name: cuffing season, the season in which we are extra motivated to find a partner from October to March and at the same time become a lot less picky when it comes to choosing that partner. How does this actually come about?

Basically, it makes a lot of sense. Cuffing season peaks around the holidays, a time when most singles find it less enjoyable to be alone. And rightly so. Personally, I always dreaded the Christmas dinner and the endless conversation with Aunt Gerda, who just couldn't understand why such a lovely girl like me hadn't caught a man yet. Honestly, if I hear the words ‘it comes when you're not looking for it’ one more time, I'm going to scream.

That the holidays play a big role in the desire to quickly find a partner is clear. It certainly doesn't help that the sugary, cheesy Christmas movies that we all secretly love tell you that romance and the holidays are inextricably linked. Let's be honest: who wouldn't want to fall into the arms of a handsome, charming innkeeper in the snowy mountains of a picturesque town that doesn't exist? Sign me up!

This and the fact that it's extra nice to cuddle up to someone during the cold months makes it the perfect recipe to dive headfirst into a new relationship around this time. My advice? Just go for it! Just be careful when starting such a relationship and keep in mind the expiration date of your new fling. Because just like with a holiday romance, this need can be solely based on a seasonal urge to not want to be alone.

Still in the mood for a winter romance? Then this is of course the best time to install a dating app. I'm sure there are plenty of singles around this time of year looking for someone to hibernate with. And hey, maybe it will turn into a real serious relationship that ensures Aunt Gerda finally keeps her mouth shut during Christmas dinner. Or not, and in that case, just pour yourself another nice glass of bubbles. And give Gerda one too.

By: Sophie Rietmulder