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In honor of prom season, here at Racked we thought it might be fun to take a trip down memory lane and revisit our own looks from proms past. Actually, only one of us thought it would be fun to post awkward teenage photos of ourselves on the internet. But the rest of the Racked team grudgingly agreed to humor me, and so here we are. Below, presenting never-before-seen photos of Racked editors across the country, complete with critiques and commentary from our grown-up selves. Enjoy.
Racked National editor Kerry Folan, circa 1996
This way-too-sophisticated-for-a-teenager dress in Pretty Woman-red was a loaner from a gorgeous blond family friend, and let's just say I had a little trouble filling her strapless legacy. Following not one but two trips to the old-lady lingerie store with my mom, there was more padding stuffed in that bodice than I've ever dared to attempt since. That said, props for rocking a red dress, 16-year-old self!! And since it'll never happen again for the rest of your life, go ahead and smile, why don't you???
Racked editorial director Izzy Grinspan, circa 1998
The year was 1998 and Ani DiFranco was my personal hero, so there was no way in hell that I was going to wear something poofy to the prom. Instead, I bought a long paisley dress from Anthropologie, blow-dried my center-parted hair, and considered myself good to go. Two things stand out at me now: 1) the complete lack of make-up, other than Clinique Black Honey lip stain and 2) that lace inset! I had no idea it was so risque. The '90s were truly a more innocent time.
Racked NY editor Tiffany Yannetta, circa 2005
I bought my senior prom dress at a thrift/vintage store, and I'm pretty sure it was under $20. I spent about $40
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