Middle school was a rough time for most of us, so you've probably tried to block out 90% of your memories during this period of life. It's just one big blank space that you convince yourself wasn't as bad as you remember.
It was embarrassing, it was awkward, it was just plain uncomfortable for everyone—and just about all of this has to do with those go-to items from your closet.
1. Gauchos
It honestly pains me realize that this picture literally could have been me, brown gauchos and a pink tank was my signature outfit back in middle school. Let's not forget the belt placed over the shirt.
2. Wedged Flip-Flops
I actually still see people wearing these today and I have no clue why. But back in middle school we some how missed the memo that the higher the platform bottom is, doesn't positively effect how stylish they are. Not to mention these were a death by rolled ankle waiting to happen.
3. Extreme Bell Bottoms
I actually used to complain about my jeans not being flared enough, not sure what was wrong with me. Being seen in boot cut, or even worse skinny jeans, was fashion suicide. Bonus style points awarded for weird colored patches or bedazzled back pockets though!
4. Skater Shoes
I want to permanently forget I ever owned these in middle school. I was positive that they were essential to my "cool girl" style, but clearly there was nothing cool about these shoes that were always two sizes too big.
5. UGG Boots
I don't think UGGs should ever make a come back, but if they do please understand that if it is hot enough to wear shorts: do not wear these shoes.
6. Shutter Shades
I'm not even 100% sure what this style of glasses is called, all I know is I bought a pair in 8th grade and won't ever forgive myself. What was the point exactly? You can't see anything, there's no UV protection and they're not fashionable at all.
7. Layered Polos
I know that sometimes we sacrifice comfort for style, but seriously didn't all these shirts get hot, guys? There is seriously nothing fashionable about a sweaty pre-teen in four shirts.
8. Thick White Belts
I wore this belt everyday for years. Half of my pants didn't even need a belt, but I added this accessory anyways. Not sure exactly what happened to this belt, but I sleep a little better at night knowing I'll never be caught dead in this again.
9. Soffe Shorts
My dad never let me wear these and I hated him for it (until now). How was I possibly supposed to let everyone know I was a cheerleader without having it plastered on my butt for everyone to read?
10. Knit Pancho
I didn't wear this for long, but it was worn for about two months straight. I mean it could go with anything, right? Clearly I wasn't wearing this for warmth, just for style.
11. Cropped Hoodie
I'm ashamed to admit I had this in white and wore it completely zipped up, along with with a full length shirt underneath. I have absolutely no idea why my parents or friends didn't stop me.
12. Aeropostal T-shirts
Last, but definitely not least, 99.9% of my closest in middle school. Somehow Aeropostale actually had pre-teens all over America convinced that wearing tight t-shirts that advertised them was actually one of the most fashionable things you could wear.
