Divorce was once considered taboo, whispered about in hushed tones and only spoken of in private. Divorce used to be viewed as a failure, a devastating end to a once-promising union. But times have changed, and divorce has undergone a ‘rebranding’ in recent years.
The days of suffering in silence and shame are over. Women are leading the charge in changing the narrative around divorce. Today, women are taking control of their lives, shedding the stigma surrounding divorce, and embracing their newfound independence.
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One woman who’s leading the charge is Stacey Duguid, who’s become something of an internet sensation with her TikTok divorce outfit series. Duguid, a former Vogue editor, uses fashion to express her feelings and tell her story, with each outfit representing a different phase of her divorce journey. From turning her wedding dress into a party dress and sporting a jumpsuit on the day the papers were finalized, Duguid’s series is a testament to the power of fashion as a form of self-expression and a way of coping with life’s challenges.
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@divorcelooks COURT LOOKS #1 Divorced, but not dead darlings. Not yet. #mydivorceinoutfits – what will you wear today?!? Go smash it, loves, whatever the weather, whatever you wear! GOOD LUCK IN COURT. Gosh, motivational speaker I am not. Won’t give up the day job just yet. This dress is my perfect “lets go to fucking court then” outfit. Provided by my gorgeous friend #giles 💋#mydivorceinoutfits #parentsoftiktok #divorce #singlemum #midlifedivorce #giles #dogs ♬ Sex and the City (Main Theme) – TV Sounds Unlimited
But Duguid is just one example of how women are reframing divorce. Another trend that’s emerged in recent years is the divorce party. Instead of mourning the end of a marriage, women are celebrating their newfound freedom with friends and family. These parties can take many forms, from low-key gatherings with close friends to extravagant blowouts complete with cakes, decorations, and even divorce-themed gifts.
@anneykins Couldn’t be more proud of you, to new beginnings @megretch 👏🏽🙌🏽 #endofanerror #divorce #pinay #girlsquad ♬ Sunroof – Nicky Youre & dazy
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@alyssajayne317 Bye, Felicia. #divorceparty #cheatersgettingcaught #narctok ♬ original sound – Savannah Scrimsher
So why the shift in attitudes towards divorce? Part of it can be attributed to the changing roles of women in society. As more women enter the workforce and gain financial independence, they’re less likely to stay in unhappy marriages for fear of being unable to support themselves. Additionally, the rise of social media has allowed women to connect with others going through similar experiences and find support and validation.
Photo taken in Lindenberg, Germany
Ultimately, the rebranding of divorce is a reflection of a larger societal shift towards greater acceptance of individualism and personal choice. Women are no longer willing to sacrifice their own happiness and wellbeing for the sake of an institution that no longer serves them. Instead, they’re taking charge of their lives and embracing their independence, even in the face of adversity.
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Divorce has come a long way from being a shameful secret to something that’s openly discussed and celebrated. Today, divorce is seen as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery, not a tragedy.
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