A brand-new hairstyle is practically mandatory after a breakup. For some, this involves opting for shock factor with a color transformation, but nine times out of ten, a shorter chop delivers the desired refresh. Cast your mind back over your own breakups, and you’ll likely remember times when you used a new look to help you mentally move onto a new chapter. Could it be that Emily Ratajkowski is doing just that?

screenshot of Emily Ratajkowski posing with long layered hairHaving reportedly broken up with her husband of four years, Sebastian Bear-McClard (though she has not commented publicly on the subject), the model and author posted an Instagram Story on August 9 showing off a brand new hair look. Parting with breakup haircut convention, Ratajkowski has actually opted for a longer look, presumably making use of some hair extensions to add length and dimension to her previously mid-length style.

Falling to her waist, and with lots of layers and natural texture through mid-lengths and ends, EmRata’s new style is very long-hair-don’t-care. The longer layers are a lighter chestnut color than her chocolate brown strands for a subtle ombré effect. It is hair that’s guaranteed to turn heads – not least when paired with an arresting pose, little black dress, and – let’s face it – Ratajkowski’s killer body. 

She might be breaking with tradition, but going from shoulder-skimming hair to mermaid lengths is just as good a way to mark a fresh start as a – and we love that for Emily.