Retail therapy for broken hearts

London: Most women's favourite way of getting over a romantic break-up is a little retail therapy, according to a survey yesterday, with high heels and the little black dress top of the shopping list.

Nearly three-quarters (74 per cent) of respondents admitted they were more likely to go on a shopping splurge, or indulge in a costly pampering session, during the weeks following a break-up than at any other time.

Neither did they hold back during their heartbreak-fuelled shopping rampages, with 47 per cent spending over £250.

Other favoured methods of getting over the pain were: being pampered, listening to music, watching a film or exercising.

In the survey, by the Clothes Show London, 60 per cent of women said it takes them longer than three months to get over a relationship.

"Not only does shopping give women pleasure as an activity in itself, but by creating a whole new look from their purchases, women are able to give themselves a transformation right when they may feel like they need a change most," said Maryam Hamizadeh, marketing manager at Clothes Show London.

The survey revealed that after the heels and the dress, the most popular items purchased were: sexy lingerie, designer bags and high-end make-up.