Melbourne Influencer Contrasts Australian and Italian Dating Cultures, Calls for "Closing the Gap" in Chivalry

Melbourne-based content creator Alessandra, known as Makeupbyalessandra_, has ignited a conversation about modern dating, drawing comparisons between the romantic approaches of Australian and Italian men. In a recent video uploaded on September 22, 2025, Alessandra, who has lived in Italy, shared her observations on what she believes Australian women "actually want from men." According to Alessandra, Italian men exhibit a more direct and attentive courtship style. "You walk down the street in Italy, men will stop you and say, 'Hello, where are you from?'" she stated, recounting instances of immediate conversation initiation. She further described Italian men as proactive in planning dates, picking up women from their homes on scooters, and confidently selecting wine and food without extensive consultation. "They are dressed to the nines... putting the helmet on your head, this is like the first time you've met them," she emphasized, highlighting their forwardness and chivalry. In contrast, Alessandra suggested that Australian men often "dodge eye contact" and that women are expected to infer interest from subtle cues. She expressed a desire for more direct communication and appreciation, noting, "We like being told, 'Oh my God, I've never seen a girl as beautiful as you.' Tell me more!" The video concludes with a call to "close the gap" between Italian and Australian dating standards, implying that Australian men could benefit from adopting some of the more assertive and appreciative traits observed in Italy. The video has garnered significant attention, accumulating over 182,000 views and sparking debate among her followers.

the Guardian

‘Reply guys’ exist in the inboxes of multiple women simultaneously. When a targ…

A ‘reply guy’s modus operandi is simple: maintain multiple low-effort conversations as possible. But his motives? Largely unclear