The evolution of the global orientation parameter for a series of aqueous hydroxypropylcellulose solutions both during and following the cessation of a steady-state shear Bow is reported. Time-resolved orientation measurements were made in situ through a novel X-ray rheometer coupled with a two-dimensional electronic X-ray camera, and using an intense X-ray source at the LURE synchrotron. After the cessation of flow, the global orientation decreases from the steady state orientation level to zero following shear flow at a low shear rate or to a small but finite value after flow at a high shear rate. The decrease of orientation with time shows different behaviour, dependent upon the previously applied shear rate.