Your Squad Search Ends Here

Anyone can make a #SquadGoals pic look cute on Insta (oh hey, Tay- Tay), but building a reallife, ride-or-die crew can be tricky—especially if you’ve just moved to a new town.

- Julie Vadnal

 Lucky for you— and thanks to a slew of new apps (see “Need a New BFF? Swipe Right”)—“friend dating” is easier and more popular than ever. Technology has given women everywhere an assist in forming platonic relationships (which, btw, can make you happier and healthier). Ahead, Cosmo has your guide to finding and bonding with potential BFFs.

1 Scout Prospects

In terms of IRL friend pickup spots, the usual suspects still rule: a mutual acquaintance’s party, your local coffee shop, the gym. When you spot someone promising—maybe she has a hilarious phone case that makes you go “same”—approach her casually and keep your intro light, says psychologist Harriet Lerner, PhD, author of The Dance of Anger. Start with a simple ice-breaker like, “I love your boots. Where did you get them?” Then try to bring up something you can bond over (like your shared appreciation for a strong stacked heel).