Revenge Dressing
To my knowledge the first time the term “Revenge dressing” was first used was back in 1994 when Princess Diana stepped out in an off the shoulder Christina Stambolian dress the same night the then Prince Charles confessed his infidelity in an interview, The black dress which she wore to a high profile event at London's Serpentine Gallery, With its risque-for-a-royal a-symmetrical hemline, exposed decolletage and paired with a showstopping pearl choker ensured that she, Not her cheating husband, Made the front page.
Since then after a public break-up celebrities (particularly if they are the wronged party) are almost expected to follow suit and grace the red carpet in their version of the revenge dress. The rules are pretty simple, They are expected more polished, preened and lets be honest sexy than they did during your relationship, Lets make it clear its only ever the women who are expected to partake in this ritual, I could sit and blame the patriarchy but I wont because I pity men, Its nigh on impossible for them to have a glow up, A hair cut, some designer stubble, An extended stint at the gym and new teeth might improve their appearance but women are goddesses who can transform themselves with the help of a good glam team.
It would be remiss of me not to mention the inspiration for this column was Lily Allen, Whose most recent album has caused quite the stir due to its confessional and at times visceral narration of her break-up with her ex-husband. Lily is on the circuit promoting her album and has been delighting both the press and her fans with her revenge looks, Ranging from a full length black semi-sheer Galliano-era Dior dress, A barely there under-boob exposing crop top with matching ivory cape by Colleen Allen and 16 Arlington velvet gown that had definite Princess Diana vibes to it thanks to its bardot neckline. Lily Allen's revenge wardrobe has had a definite “theme” centred around showing off her excellent post break-up boob-job, So many people were interested in them the star shared the details of her surgeon on social media
So what can we take from revenge dressing if we are not the injured party in a break up? The word reenge dressing suggests it's about getting back at someone, When really it has nothing to do with anyone but you, Its about using clothes as a method of empowerment, Wearing something that steps you out of a comfort zone or just makes you feel amazing, It could be as simple as adding temporary shoulder pads to a top or a jacket for a sharper silhouette, Wearing beautiful underwear ; No one else might see it but you feel as though you are treating yourself.
It might be nothing to do with dressing up, It might be wearing flats instead of your usual heels because when you're comfortable you are more relaxed. I hate the trope that revenge means women have to dress “hot”, We all know it's a dish best served cold.
