After Cheating on Me, My Ex Cut up My Favorite Outfits So I Wouldn’t ‘Look Pretty for Another Man’

I thought leaving my husband after his affair was the hardest part. Then I found him cutting my dresses to pieces, saying he didn’t want me looking pretty for other men. That’s when I decided he wouldn’t have the last word.

I’m 35, from a small Midwestern town where thrift shops are sacred and potlucks define friendships. My clothes weren’t just fabric—they were my history. The red dress from when Chris kissed me, the mint green one my mom loved, the sequined shift I bought postpartum to feel like me again. Each held a story.

Chris’ betrayal was quiet: late church meetings, secretive texts, and a message from “Kara_Church” that confirmed my suspicions. His cold “I’m sorry” and dismissal fueled my decision to divorce. I left with just essentials, leaving my dresses behind.

Days later, I returned to find Chris shredding them. “If you’re leaving, no one else gets you,” he smirked. I grabbed what was left and left. At my mom’s, I documented the damage and planned. I didn’t want revenge—just accountability. I sent photos to his boss and Kara, exposing his actions. The court ordered reimbursement for my dresses.

Friends helped me rebuild, bringing dresses and joy. Chris tried to dim my light, but he only made space for more. A cryptic text warned me to “watch my back,” but I’m not afraid anymore.