Most people hang on to small things from the past that bring back memories, have sentimental value, or were with them on some of their most important days. It’s human nature to want to save things that remind us of significant moments. However, for one Idaho woman, she realized that she might need to get rid of a few things that once meant the world to her.
Many adults have great memories of their prom, and women often keep the dresses that they wore to the high school rite of passage. TikTok user @angiebatis, recently shared a video of herself looking at her prom dress and reminiscing about the dance as she revealed she was ready to finally get rid of the garment.
A Prom Dress From 40 Years Ago
“I think I’m ready to get rid of my prom dress from 40 years ago,” Angie tells the camera with emotion in her voice. “Why is it so nostalgic?” she added. Angie went on to reveal that she went to prom in April 1986, and that looking back the dance was even more special because her date ended up being the man she would eventually marry.
“As a young girl, we just dreamed of going to the prom,” Angie continued as she began to cry. She went on to explain that prom dresses have evolved greatly since she was in school and that her dress was specially made for her by a woman in her community.
The Story Behind the Dress
Angie chose a red dress to go with the colors of the high school she attended in Utah. She then made a sketch of what she wanted the dress to look like before handing it over to the dressmaker. After pulling out the garment, Angie got even more emotional as she remembered all the work that went into making the dress. “I don’t think I can get rid of this,” she admitted.
After hanging the dress back in her closet, Angie pulled out the photos from the prom, showing her younger self wearing the gown. Her now-husband stands beside her wearing a white tux with red accents, and also has the classic 80’s mullet hairstyle.
A Look Back at Prom Night
The photos set off a whole new level of emotion, as Angie confessed that she would have never guessed back then that she and her husband would have built the life they have now.
Meanwhile, while it’s fun to look back on her teen days, Angie says that despite having “the best high school years” she would “not go back” to them. She then asks whether or not viewers believe she should get rid of the dress.
Of course, the internet was quick to respond. Most people told Angie that she should keep the dress, especially when it obviously means so much to her. Some even suggested that she wear the dress again.
The Internet Weighs In
“Girl get it resized, get him a white tux…and have a fancy anniversary party and where them again…then post the 80s photo and the new one,” one person commented. “Ma’am…with all due respect, if you don’t keep that dress……we’re in a fight,” another joked.
“OMG. Bawling. That is your dress, keep it,” a third person chimed in. “Get it professionally cleaned and sealed up, like some women do with their wedding dresses!” a fourth person suggested.
Should Old Prom Dresses Be Professionally Preserved?
Meanwhile, Angie isn’t the only person who has wrestled with the decision about what to do with their old prom dresses, wedding gowns, and other formal wear. Sadly, the older the fabric gets, the more it’s susceptible to damage such as yellowing, per PureWow. The garment would need to be properly cleaned and stored to keep it preserved.
The process usually includes cleaning the dress and storing it in acid-free tissue inside a breathable, protective box rather than a plastic bag. Many viewers suggested that Angie find someone near her in Idaho to clean and preserve the dress for her, especially since she obviously holds it so close to her heart.
Noticed News has contacted the individual involved and will update this story if a statement is provided.
