Breakups are never easy, and they often leave people wanting to hide away and reach for something more low-key. But what if your wardrobe could help speed up the healing process?
Global searches for “healing outfits” are up by 508% in the past three months, while “revenge dress” is being searched for over 34,000 times a month, according to Google search trends.
Leading Australian women’s fashion brand, Gingham & Heels, partnered with Personal Stylist and Color Theory expert Donna Cameron to reveal how dressing up to heal during heartbreak can have a powerful impact on mood and recovery.
Key insights:
- The revenge dress effect: Wearing bold colours like red for a fun energy, while deep shades like olive green can be subtle but still elegant.
- Black isn’t always your friend: While it’s chic, it can feel heavy and draining if overused, especially during your healing period.
- Colours that heal: Pink and red mirror natural complexion tones, while teal, aqua, and turquoise are universally flattering.
- Texture is therapy: Silks feel fluid and effortless, denim and wool can provide a protective armour.
“Clothing is communication. What you wear sends signals to yourself and to others, whether you realize it or not. After a breakup, that can mean the difference between feeling stuck in sadness and gradually stepping into healing,” says Australia-based Cameron.
Breakups can trigger strong emotional responses, and Donna says clothing is one of the most immediate tools we have for restoring confidence and shaping our mood.
“How someone dresses after a breakup really depends on the nature of it and their personality. If someone feels low, they might wear jeans and a baggy top, sticking to subdued colours because they don’t want to be noticed,” Donna explains. “While someone else might dress in something brighter and more attention-grabbing as a way to seek comfort or connection from others, it’s all very individual.”
From recovery to reinvention: The ‘revenge dress’
To help boost confidence and speed up the healing process, shift clothing from soothing to statement-making. “Particularly if you’re not the one who initiated the breakup, there’s sometimes a desire to make your ex think, ‘Maybe I made a mistake,’” Donna says. “That’s when the idea of the ‘revenge dress’ comes in. It’s about showing that you’ve moved on and are thriving.”
Bright, strong colors can help showcase your confidence. “If you’re going to see an ex and want to show you’ve moved on, wear a joyful, powerful shade,” recommends Donna. “Pink and red are classic because they echo natural tones in our complexion, but equally, wearing your eye colour is very powerful. It draws people in and highlights your individuality.”
“Also consider how you want to come across: soft light colors for femininity, deeper tones like burgundy or olive for elegance, and brighter colors if you want to seem fun.”
Pro tip: Don’t rely too heavily on black, despite its reputation as chic and timeless.
“Black is psychologically heavy. While some see it as elegant, it can start to feel draining, especially during a period of heartbreak,” Donna says. “For fairer complexions, it can look harsh unless balanced with makeup. Black can be beautiful if styled thoughtfully, but when it becomes a default, it often signals people don’t want to think about what they wear.”
By contrast, color can signal openness and vitality. “Clothing sends messages, whether we realise it or not. If you wear subdued neutrals, it can suggest you don’t want attention. But in a room of grey suits, a bright color makes you appear approachable and ready to connect.”
“Context matters, but dressing with intention always shifts how others respond to you, and how you respond to yourself.”
Start with subtle changes: Silk for ease and fluidity, while denim and wool can offer protection
“Start with clothes that comfort you by choosing something reliable and that makes you feel safe,” Donna advises. “Textures can be just as healing as color. Silky fabrics encourage fluid movement and a sense of ease, while heavier materials like denim or wool can feel protective.”
“If bold colour feels intimidating, begin with a lipstick or scarf. You don’t need to go full glam, just introduce a focal point. Even something small can lift your mood and signal a new chapter.”
Above all, Donna emphasizes compassion. “Heartbreak is exhausting. If you’re feeling hurt, be kind and go easy on yourself. Start small by choosing clothes that you love and feel good in, and gradually build up to pieces that remind you of your strength. Your wardrobe can be a tool for healing; it’s about living authentically and letting your style reflect who you are becoming.”
