British Vogue faces backlash for article claiming having a boyfriend is “embarrassing”

British Vogue has faced backlash after publishing an article suggesting that women today often feel ashamed of their relationships and hide boyfriends on social media. Freelance writer Shante Joseph argued that being in a relationship is increasingly seen as “almost guilty” and “culturally awkward.”

The piece included voices of women who intentionally avoid posting about their partners. Influencer Stephanie Yeboa shared that she lost hundreds of followers after revealing her boyfriend and now refrains from sharing such details. Another woman admitted she never posted pictures of her partner and was relieved that no digital trace remained after their breakup.

Readers’ reactions were sharply divided. Some criticized the perspective as bitter or envious, while others celebrated the notion that being single has become trendy.

• “Vogue’s new article on being ashamed of having a boyfriend is funny but accurate,” one social media user wrote. “Don’t stay with a man if you’re not ready to tolerate his bad behavior.”

• Another commented: “Women defending themselves from the article about ‘embarrassing boyfriends’ are missing the point. Relationships with men often turn out to be a scam.”

• “It’s shameful to be with someone who doesn’t value you,” added another.

Some readers also argued that shaming women for being in relationships is just another way to diminish them. TikTok influencer Antoinette noted the negative stereotyping online: “People say women with boyfriends are boring, beige, uninteresting… It feels like women get judged simply for having a friendship with a man.”

Shante Joseph responded, emphasizing that she was merely sharing the experiences of the women she interviewed. She rejected claims of envy toward women in relationships, highlighting that single women often face unfair judgment.

Relationship expert Claire Renié from the dating app Happn explained that the trend isn’t about the boyfriend himself, but how his public presence is perceived online. “Posting about your partner can feel ‘cringe’ because there’s a risk of being seen only as ‘someone’s girlfriend’ rather than an individual,” she said.

Renié added that having a partner can be wonderful, and it’s important to “own your choice” rather than follow social trends. “If you love and value your boyfriend, don’t let anyone impose shame. True connection matters more than cultural trends or social opinions. The only thing truly shameful is living under the influence of others’ judgments.”