Laura and Nic’s experiences are relatable in their own way; we’ve all had a friend who has identified with one or the other post-break-up. Wellbeing coach Kamran Bedi says these changes in style reflect deeper identity crises that can occur around a split.

“For some people, an end of a relationship can lead to a deep self-reflection around their own identity,” he says. “The longer the relationship, the deeper the search can be and it’s also not immediate for some people, as it’s always an individual and unique time in discovering your newfound self.”

According to Bedi, the process of investing in new clothes can be a form of self-expression to help people re-establish their own identity once a relationship ends.

“One of the ways that can help people move on is to focus their time on themselves, in particular with how they identify their sense of fashion and style,” he says. “Shopping for new clothes, shoes and accessories can often help people mentally shift into their own head and heart space. This can involve creating a sense of confidence within themselves through new styles, and exploring new ways of dressing which can help heal an aching heart.”

He’s right: it can feel good to invest in yourself and your style after a break-up. They call it retail therapy for a reason – I’m just not sure my bank balance can take another pummelling the next time I get dumped. Looking at my accumulated muddle of clothes, it’s clear that I have to piece something together from the jumbled aesthetics I’ve tried on for size over the years. I guess if there’s any time to try the kooky girl trend, it’s now.

“My style changes after each break-up I go through – but why?”