16 Single Ladies On How To Love Being Solo

As a woman, the "single" status has so many different connotations. But, there's one that really rains on our parade: the idea that flying solo means you can't find a partner, or just haven't found one yet — and therefore, you must be miserable. What about the simple truth that being single is actually awesome? And, that you don't need a so-called better half to embrace life, yourself, and the world around you. (Not that it's not lovely to have a partner — it's just not a prerequisite for happiness, contrary to everything Hollywood, Disney, and endless fairy tales have taught us.)

In that spirit of independence and go-girl encouragement, we leveled with 16 local ladies who are embracing their single selves and actually enjoying the dating game. These are the women-about-town who are squeezing every last drop of fun out of life, sans S.O. Are we inspired by their moxie when it comes to hitting up a concert alone, planning epic first dates, and shutting down misguided suitors? You're damn right we are — and you will be, too. Ahead, some real-girl talk on dating in D.C., learning to love your solo status, and coupling up on your own terms.