Watch out for spotting ‘beige flags’: Dating expert explains the new TikTok phenomenon — and why it’s doing more harm than good to your love life
A relationship expert has warned singletons to be wary of the latest dating trend to take over TikTok.
James Preece, a celebrity dating coach from Buckinghamshire, said there is “too much beige flag throwing” that makes people overly conscious when dating.
“Beige flags,” coined by TikTok user Caitlin MacPhail, refer to a sign that someone is boring, especially on the dating app.
Caitlin said they refer to a popular sitcom, have an opinion about pineapple on pizza, hate cilantro and have pictures with puppies, among other things.
However, the term, which has surged in popularity thanks to TikTok, can also refer to a trait in a partner that is neither good nor bad, but can give a romantic interest a short break due to its quirky nature.
Speaking to FEMAIL, James said the only flags singletons should look for are “green ones.”
Buckinghamshire celebrity dating coach James Preece said ‘beige flags’ are thrown around too often, making people overly conscious when dating (stock image)
“The term ‘beige flag’ can have two meanings when it comes to dating,” he explained.
First of all, it can be mean for someone to write a boring, generic dating app profile. Or alternatively, it could mean that a person has noticed something odd or strange in a mate or potential mate.
“As a dating coach, I’m much more comfortable with the first meaning, because I see that every day!”
James explained that many people struggle to write “engaging profiles” and that looking boring online doesn’t mean you should write them off.
“From my experience, most people struggle to write compelling profiles.
Or if they took the time to write an interesting one, then they have uninspiring photos. I help people all over the world write great profiles and I haven’t seen a perfect one yet.
James explained that daters should “give people a chance” and could eliminate large potential matches by being too strict with “beige flags” (stock image)
“It’s not healthy to pick up flaws in someone — neither in a profile nor in real life. It is often done to make themselves look good or to hide low self-esteem.’
James explained that daters should “give people a chance” and could eliminate large potential matches by being too strict with “beige flags.”
“You have to form your own opinion about a person. Most people have a hard time knowing what to write on their dating profiles, so you should give everyone a chance.
“I don’t agree at all with the terms ‘flags’. The term is used too often today without any real evidence.
“It’s similar to the trend of claiming that all ex-partners are narcissists or that they were love-bombing you.”
James added that there are some “serious things” that people should be aware of, but it’s more important to remember that every person and every situation is different.
“It’s much more important to remember that every person and situation is different.
One person’s turn may be someone else’s turn. Don’t judge too quickly or you could meet the same fate!
“My advice is to ask questions about anything you want to know. If they are happy to answer, you will find that you like what you hear.
“Many people find it easier to talk about themselves in real time rather than explaining a few words.
“You’ll learn a lot more about whether they’re right for you by actually meeting someone rather than labeling someone.”
Finally, if you’re looking for “flags,” look for green ones. Focus on what you like instead of what you don’t like and you’ll be much more successful.’