My friend, Sarah, challenged me to a late 80′s/early 90′s battle of the bangs (click here for the email exchange) several weeks ago. I was convinced (and still am) that my spiral curls, gravity-defying bangs, coordinated bow, crafty silk flower earrings, and black patent kitten heels adorned with a patent bow would secure my place in 80′s history. Sarah, however, believed that her dress covered in silver sequins/black lace, puffy netting and tulle, assymmetrical poofy skirt, boufant hair courtesy of Level 4 Rave hairspray, satin pumps with beaded toe embellishments, and a black & white rhinestone jewelry set would win the prize. I challenged her to put her picture where her keyboard was…and she did. Sarah and I respectfully request that you settle this dispute for us. Please review the pictures below and cast your votes.
Allison- 1989 Sarah- 1993
Wow. What exactly is the criteria? I mean, wow.
Frankly, I think you both end up looking hilarious and yet still pretty danged good. I mean, ya GOTTA recognize that in 1989 there was just no option for a gal to wear her bangs down. If she did, the Poof Patrol would swoop in and Aqua Net her to death.
The hairspray aisle still brings back the smell of crispy, burning hair.
Despite being tempted by Sarah’s full look and the puffy shoulder bits, I’ve got to give the win to you because of the matchy-matchy thing you’ve got going on, which is CLASSIC 80s. Also, your hair has those gravity-defying wings out to the side, which I remember attempting for hours. Alas, my hair has never been cooperative and I never achieved the look. And apparently, that fact still stings.
Oh my.
Pretty in Plaid. Molly Ringwald, eat your heart out.
I most DEFINITELY concede the bang height category to Allison, and it looks like it will be a clean sweep re: attire too, although I’m not giving up on that yet.
Wow, democracy is rough, huh? Just like in “real” elections, the candidates representations (photos in this case) don’t compare well. You’re both quite beautiful, even in your horrid ’80s getups, hence the difficulty in voting …
Wow. – Tim
BTW, Your hair is funnier every time I look at this pic (sorry, no offense
Also, I’d like to point out that despite your attire and other accessories, you chose a simple understated gold chain as a necklace…maybe you didn’t want to over-accessorize?!?! Very tasteful an classy move, I must say!
None taken. I opted for a simple twisty gold chain so as not to overpower the silk flower earrings I had crafted by glue gun. I should note that the skirt portion of my dress was a demure black fabric (also used in my coordinating hair bow). I just wanted to make sure that you knew the whole thing wasn’t plaid. That would have been over-the-top…even for 80′s-me.
BTW, like Aliasmother, I am a big fan of your puffy shoulder bits.
Holy Cow, that hair is fantastic.
The plaid, bangs and curls are the total package. Impressive to say the least!
http://pammyshep.wordpress.com/2008/06/15/lets-hope-big-hair-never-makes-a-comeback/
Let’s see if this works.
Gorgeous, and so timely with Halloween just around the corner! I voted for you because your hair actually gave your clothes extra points.
the bang height goes to you hands down…had to give her the nod on the outfit though, hahaha
Wow – I just noticed your blog through my sister’s (Pammy Girl) and I must say that your outfit brings back some memories — I also have to agree with the person who mentioned the matchy matchy trends of the 80′s…you had it down perfectly. You definitely win!