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See How Prom Has Evolved Over the Last 8 Decades

The American prom has come a long way since its inception in the late 1890s. Prom, short for promenade, was first used to describe a simple college ball before gaining momentum and popularity as a high school dance. By the 1950s it had become more of the elaborate event it is today, with its prom courts, fancy cars, and expensive dresses — the glorified pinnacle of adolescence. I love looking at prom pics in old high school yearbooks, which range from awkward to awww. So take a look back with me at proms through the decades!

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Join The Conversation
Tara-Block Tara-Block 6 years
My faves are the ruffle dresses from the '50s and '60s! And why were the '80s so awkward?!
Mandy-Harris Mandy-Harris 6 years
These are awesome. I especially love the 1983 pic, and how THRILLED they look to be going to prom together.
Annie-Gabillet Annie-Gabillet 6 years
Good point, zeze. Guys have it easy, but it's also not as fun!
zeze zeze 6 years
I love how the suits are pretty much the same throughout time, aside from 1 or 2 weird ones.
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