We’ve all seen them. In most instances, they are completely unavoidable (and oblivious for that matter). I am talking about “that couple” that finds it necessary to match outfits and plan wardrobes based on, not the weather or current trends, but each other. Violators will typically be found in amusement parks (excuse being, in case either get lost), monster truck rallies (no offense if you are a regular attendee) and those celebrating the independence of The United States of America (nothing like screaming “God bless the U.S.A.” by proudly sporting that stars and stripes polo).

This trend begs more than a single question. At what point in a relationship does one become so comfortable that it is deemed appropriate to match a mate? Is it a last ditch effort to save what is remaining of a relationship? Or, perhaps, does one find him or herself so infatuated with a companion that he or she finds it necessary to shout these feelings from a mountaintop (albeit silently, through wardrobe). At what point does one say, “Yep, that looks good…I’ll wear that.”

Well, as the lines and boundaries of fashion become more and more blurred by the day, it is becoming easier and easier to get caught up in this trend. Vests and scoop neck tees are just a couple of the many examples that could get you into trouble with dressing like your bedmate.

Case in point: Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears circa 2001 at the American Music Awards. While their matching denim duds turned heads (denim, really?), look what is left to show of the relationship. To the disappointment of many, they split. Ok, Mr. Timberlake may have gone on to leave his boy band-mates in the dust for a flourishing solo career as an entertainer and fashion designer. Ms. Spears on the other hand? Well, one must live under a rock in Antarctica to have not seen the train wreck that resulted. Drastic example? Perhaps. Lesson to be learned? Absolutely.

Moral of the story: Before walking out the door, take the time to confer with the one you wake up next to. Don’t be “that couple.” After all, the only thing that would possibly be worse is to have corresponding mullets. Wait, that actually might be better. Statement retracted.