Scots singer burns wedding dress on Irvine beach in message to domestic abusers
A singer who burned a wedding dress at Irvine beach in an empowering music video has encouraged victims of domestic violence not to suffer in silence.
Kirsty Millard, from Kilmarnock, torched the white frock in November last year while filming her new debut single 'The Patriarchy'.
The song is about women being able to move on with their lives and thrive after domestic abuse.
Kirsty, who is an abuse survivor, said the dress represents patriarchal themes that have " oppressed women for too many generations".
The 37-year-old told the Record: "From a young age, women are taught about the white picket fence dream and that marriage is the goal. For a lot of women who have been in a similar situation as me, that just isn't the reality.
"Burning the wedding dress was like burning that idea and the things associated with marriage.
"I bought the dress from a Cancer Research charity shop and the woman who sold it to me had actually been through domestic abuse herself.
"Its a major issue for so many women. It's important for survivors to know you can be a success after going through it."
Kirsty said that after coming out of an abusive relationship, she felt the need to explore her own personality and life again. She rekindled a love for singing and songwriting.
She said: "I was in an abusive relationship.
"When I came out of it, doing this song was something for myself. I invested in myself again and it felt empowering.
"I want other survivors to feel the same way and know there is life after abuse."
Ten percent of proceeds from the song will go towards Women's Aid Scotland - a charity Kirsty says she holds close to her heart.
She said: "Women's Aid Scotland helped me a lot when I needed it most. They deserve recognition for how they help people.
"I would encourage those going through domestic abuse or violence to try to get out of their situation and prioritise themselves. Sometimes that is easier said than done, but recognising and admitting to yourself that you need help is the first step to take.
"Even if one woman picks up the phone to call Women's Aid, then that is positive for me."
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