A stylish new beginning for celebrity divorcees

For many, divorce is a very stressful time in their lives. However, it appears that  people often get a makeover right after divorce. The most recent example being actor Katie Holmes, who appears to have got a new look post her split from husband, actor Tom Cruise. The actor, who had in the last few months, sported rather frumpy outfits, stepped out recently in a trendy top showing her side cleavage. Katie’s wardrobe seems to have taken an upward turn. However, she is not the only one.

In the past, singer Christina Aguilera lost weight after her divorce and upped her hairstyle as well. Similarly, actor Halle Berry traded her natural curls for straighter locks after her second divorce.

Consulting psychologist Rachna Kothari says that getting a makeover is a good idea, but is not a permanent solution; what’s more important is an emotional makeover. “The way we present ourselves, and the way we feel about ourselves are inter-related. If we look charming, assertive and confident, the world is going to see us as that, the reflection of which further boosts our confidence. A post divorce makeover may symbolise an end to everything pertaining to a former relationship, including the way they looked,” she says.

Hair stylist Dilshad Pastakia has seen many clients undergo a drastic hairstyle change post break-up. “I’ve noticed a number of clients wanting to go radical with their mane, either by cutting it very short or dyeing it a wild shade. A hair cut is one of the fastest ways to feel good. It also makes them feel like they’re out of the space they were once in,” she says.

Psychiatrist Harish Shetty agrees that post break-up makeovers can help. “Celebrities are in the business of looking good and so it’s natural for them to change their physical appearance first. This is guided by the motivation to heal themselves and visibly show that they’re are not down and out,” he adds.