Breakups can generate a range of emotions, from devastation to liberation, and everything in between. They are also behind a growing industry.
Products include clothing, accessories, books, décor and even desserts. According to the e-commerce platform Etsy, there are more than 17,700 search results for divorce or breakup gifts on the site; such searches jumped 61 percent in the last three months from the same period a year ago.
Weeding through an abundance of gift choices can be overwhelming. If you or someone you know has experienced a recent split (for better or worse), here are some items that honor the end of relationships and facilitate closure.
‘Old Flame’ Candle
On its label, Anecdote Candles Old Flame claims to smell like bad mistakes and repeat offenders. In reality, the santal scent is based in deep sandalwood and leather, with hints of cardamom and violet. Instead of reaching for your phone and texting your ex, keep your hands occupied by lighting the wick and reminding yourself to leave the past behind.
$14; travel tin and $24; standard jar
Breakup Bootcamp Book
In “Breakup Bootcamp: The Science of Rewiring Your Heart,” the author Amy Chan helps readers transform pain from a breakup or divorce into self-love and healing. Between determining your attachment style, client testimonials and practical mood-enhancing exercises, chapters focus on how to live, learn and grow after splitting with a significant other.
$16; paperback
Divorce Book For Children
While a breakup itself can be devastating and confusing for those ending the relationship, explaining divorce to a child can be equally (or even more) challenging. “A Kids Book About Divorce” was written by Ashley Simpo, a divorced mother. Suitable for children ages 5 and older, it’s meant to be read in the company of an adult. The book touches upon feelings that arise during separation, the permanence of divorce and what changes to anticipate moving forward.
$20; hardcover
Weighted Blanket
If you’re feeling down after a breakup, and looking for a bump in serotonin or melatonin, a weighted blanket can help you sleep better and feel a bit more snug. This can be especially comforting when sleeping alone for the first time in a long time. The 15-pound, onyx-colored Cariloha Weighted Bamboo Blanket creates deep pressure and can be draped over one’s lap, back or full body, for a comfortable rest.
$249; weighted bamboo blanket
Subscription Box
In the midst of (or following) a messy, chaotic split, you can subscribe to the calmbox delivery service. To inspire relaxation and calmness, each box contains six to eight goodies such as snacks, music, aromatherapy, skin care and meditation guides that intend to provide peace.
$30; calmbox
Celebratory Decor
If breaking up calls for a party, spell out your innermost no-filter feelings with “I do I did I’m done” balloons. The air-filled foil letters can serve as wall décor during a festive get-together, or be used as backdrop for an at-home photo shoot. Each kit comes with a straw for inflation and stringing ribbon.
$15; balloon bundle
Divorced T-Shirt
Wearing your heart on your sleeve is one thing, but wearing your relationship status across your chest brings about another level of transparency. Appropriate for a divorce party with friends or out and about running errands, Just Divorced T-Shirts make a statement. Made with 100 percent cotton, these bold tees are available in seven colors.
$21; shirt sizes XS to XXL
