Break-ups and haircuts â€“ whatâ€™s the connection?

Kristen Stewart recently debuted a hot new hairstyle — her signature long brunette locks have been replaced by a short, messy updo.

Certainly daring and edgy, one can't help but wonder what brought about this dramatic and rather unconventional change. Apparently, the new haircut depicts a sense of 'freedom' and 'letting go of the past' (read: her relationship with Robert Pattinson) for the young star.
Familiar? Having a haircut after a break-up or divorce is not unusual or unheard of. In fact, many women opt for a drastic change in their appearance post a separation of any sort. Says clinical psychologist Seema Hingorrany, "Many women feel like their hair or appearance is still that one thing they have absolute control over. So, when they decide to chop off their tresses, it is mostly to adopt a new, fresher identity. The girl feels an intense need to move on and hence, the need to look different and new."
Our culture itself is very focused on looks and physical appearance. Experts say that getting a haircut post a break-up is an age-old tradition among women as it portrays a new beginning and symbolises the fact that you have accepted your fate and decided to move on.
It all boils down to a simple coping mechanism — you can't change the situation, but you can change the way you look. This behaviour seems very unique to women. Hair, which is often termed as the crowning glory for women is something they are both attached to and have an emotional connect with. "When I decided to chop off all eight inches of my hair, I knew it wouldn't bring him back or make me feel good in an instant. Though, I was sure that it would bring about a change, something I really needed," says Aditi Chopra, who broke up after being in a relationship for three years.
In some cases, it could even be done to get the estranged partner's attention. However, most of the times, it's all about feeling a sense of independence. It depicts the shedding of the older you to give way to a newer, better you and making a fresh start. There's almost a cathartic feeling attached to the entire act. Psychiatrist Padma Rewari reiterates, "The act has little to do with the hair itself, it's more of a defense mechanism, where you brave your heart and mind to start anew. Different people have different ways of dealing with heartache. Some move away, some go on a holiday, some rebel and some get haircuts!"
Getting a new look can boost one's confidence and help a girl feel better about life in general; it can empower you to feel like there are certain things that you have complete control over. Says hair expert Rhea Soans, "It's very common among girls. Most of them want to urgently change the situation in their life and a makeover allows you to not only enhance your look, but also gives you an edge to carry yourself as a stronger and more independent personality. It's like making a statement to the world that you are your own person."

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