The weather is changing, we’ve pulled the hoodies out of storage, and Starbucks’ PSL is back on offer, which can only mean one thing: it’s about to be cuffing season. Whether you’re a big fan of the practice or you try to avoid it every year, it’s happening regardless. But when exactly does cuffing season start and when is it over?
- A reminder on what cuffing season actually is Most single people who are actively dating know the term well already, but for those who don’t, let’s go over it. Cuffing season is a period of time when people get into relationships specifically meant to last only until the cold weather fades. The idea is that if you “cuff” someone, you’ll have a partner to keep you warn and spend the holidays with and can cut them loose without guilt after (or just before, if you’re smart) Valentine’s Day. Many people love cuffing season for its ease and laid-back nature. Others detest it and believe it’s a waste of time because they’re looking for real love. Whatever your opinion on the trend, it persists year after year.
- Cuffing season starts in late fall or early winter. While there’s no specific date that marks the start of cuffing season, it’s generally believed to start somewhere in late fall or early winter. If you’re going by Merriam-Webster dictionary‘s definition, they say a bit early, pinpointing October as the beginning of the practice. In other words, once you need to put your heating on, it’s officially cuffing season.
- When does cuffing season end? As mentioned above, cuffing season starts when the weather gets cold and ends as the thaw of winter sets in. Many people choose to end their cuffed relationships just before Valentine’s Day, as it’s pretty awkward to spend a romantic holiday with someone you know you won’t be with in a few weeks’ time. Others do last past February 14 but cut their partners loose soon after.