Dating expert issues warning over sinister ‘lavender marriage’ dating trend

A dating expert has issued a warning to Gen Z that ‘lavender marriages’ are not all roses – as the sinister dating trend sweeps social media. 

Dating back to the 20th century, a lavender marriage traditionally refers to a matrimony of convenience between either two LQBTQ+ people, or a heterosexual person and a person who is gay or lesbian. 

According to relationship coach, Channa Bromley, it saw queer people tying the knot with a person of the opposite sex to keep a ‘low profile’ and conceal their socially stigmatised sexual orientation. 

These marriages were especially prevalent in Hollywood during the 1920s, when prominent actors and actresses were pressured into abiding by ‘morality clauses’ to maintain appearances, as reported by Mashable. 

Anne-Marie Zanzal, a questioning sexuality/coming out coach, told Betches: ‘Celebrities and normal people alike entered these relationships in the past so they could “protect themselves from persecution and stigmatisation.”‘ 

‘People who were married were perceived to be more stable and, of course, straight.’ 

However, a modern version of a lavender marriage has since emerged, with Gen Z now adopting the concept in an entirely new context. 

Younger singletons are now advertising for ‘applicants’ on social media to live their lives a married couple, in light of inflation and the increased cost of living.

A modern version of a lavender marriage has emerged, with Gen Z now adopting the concept in an entirely new context

Younger singletons are now advertising for ‘applicants’ on social media to live their lives a married couple, in light of inflation and the increased cost of living

Gen-Z have spotted economical advantages of marriage, as well as the benefits of a reliable companionship with a partner who can mutually navigate the highs and lows of life without necessarily being ‘the one.’

On TikTok, dozens of young people have appealed for partners to legally wed in a ‘lavender marriage,’ with one content creator, @robbiesmoonmusic, uploading a video to announce he’s ‘taking applications.’ 

The music artist, who identifies as homosexual, said in the clip: ‘The video is only for the girls – or anyone who doesn’t identify as a man – I’m currently taking applications for a lavender marriage, I am not joking. 

‘You can mess around with whoever you want, whenever you want. All I ask is that when that monthly payment is due, you are showing up with your half.’

In the comments, one person wrote: ‘Currently in a lavender marriage and have felt more love and care in 8 months than I did in 20 years with my ex. Never going back.’

However, a dating expert has warned of the downsides to lavender marriages, which can lead to some nasty consequences for both parties. 

If clear boundaries are not established, a ‘couple’ could run the risk of being emotionally vulnerable – and potentially falling in love with their platonic partner.

The rules of the marriage may also be blurred, which could lead to potential conflict later down the line.

If clear boundaries are not established, a ‘couple’ could run the risk of being emotionally vulnerable – and potentially falling in love with their platonic partner

Christine DeVore, a licensed clinical psychologist and the director of adult and couples services at Birch Psychology, warned circumstances and feelings may change down the line.

As reported by Tyla, she said: ‘While a lavender marriage may offer certain advantages, it does not guarantee a lifetime of happiness and fulfilment.

‘It’s important to remember that no relationship, including a lavender marriage, is immune to heartache.’

Meanwhile, a throuple who tied the knot in October last year revealed their romantic plans to celebrate Valentine’s Day last month.

Débora Peixoto, 31, and her husband and second cousin Anderson, 61, were happily married for seven years before they decided to open up their marriage and bring Luiza Marcato, 28, into the mix.

The trio eventually got hitched during an unofficial ‘symbolic’ ceremony – bigamy is illegal in most countries – last October and jetted off for their honeymoon, Débora previously told NeedToKnow.