Prom is that time when every teenager dresses up and poses for pics they'll no doubt regret down the road. If think your teenager's style statement leave a lot to be desired, you don't know the half of it.
To help give you a bit more perspective, check out this decade-by-decade look at prom styles through the times, spanning from the 1950s up until today. Those frills! That poufy hair! And who wears shades in a prom photo? One look, and you'll be glad you're parenting in this decade … although we can only wonder what people will think of modern prom attire in 20 years or so.
Egad, what's more cringe-worthy — the 70s or the 80s?
Image via Awkward Family Photos
1940s
Flash back to the '40s — a time when teenage prom-goers primped in front of vanities, added beauty marks on their cheeks (this girl had a real one, the envy of all her friends), and wore prom dresses so demure they wouldn't dare flash one inch of skin. Those were the days, huh? Er, maybe not.
1950s
Hello, bell skirt! Can you imagine a girl today donning a set of gloves to hit the dance floor?
1960s
This 1965 photo is actually of prom queen and junior class president. The glare from all that satin is giving me a headache, and that white tux has "busboy" written all over it. And what's up with those curls on the sides of her head?
1970s
Nothing screams the '7s0 quite like a guy with a moustache and long hair — not to mention a crazy print shirt. As for his date, that dress looks straight out of Little House And the Prairie.
More from The Stir: 16 Awkward Prom Pictures That Will Make You Glad High School Is Over (PHOTOS)
1980s
Pretty in Pink, indeed. That poufy hair! That fluffy dress! Oh, and the too-cool-for-school shades are a nice touch.
1990s
In the '90s, black was the new black, and halter necks all the rage.
2000s
Believe it or not, those outfits are made of Duck Tape! In the 2000s, prom outfits made of Duck Tape became big, and for good reason: the company started forking over scholarships to the most creative clothes, like these 2010 winners. Er, so much for going to prom for good old romance!
More from The Stir: 14 Must-See Prom Outfits … Made From Tape (PHOTOS)
