It’s 2008 and I’m 14-years-old, the moody refrain of Apologize by OneRepublic resonates through the Britney Spears’ Fantasy scented air. My closet is full of gladiator sandals, lensless “nerd” glasses, bubble skirts, fringed boots and Paul Frank tees. After sitting through the mandatory “You Wouldn’t Steal A Car” warning, the DVD of Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging begins. Twilight is in cinemas, Britney is making a comeback, Beyonce and Jay-Z are newlyweds. It’s a simpler time. 

Nothing brings millennial women together like collective memories of Supre slogan tees and Blue Light Discos; so I profiled a few creatives who are around my age to reminisce on their most tragic fashion moments and nostalgic throwbacks. Take a peek inside their teen diaries...

Meet Madison:

Madison’s poignant poetry, art and writing offer beautiful and insightful social commentary. While we were all writing cringeworthy emo lyrics in the back of our school diaries, Madison was probably penning Plath-esque verse and chapter. She’s currently producing her own podcast, Tender, a raw and intimate exploration of women’s experiences; essential listening for adults and teens alike.

What do you do?

I’m a writer, artist and audio producer. But I mainly just curse at my Co-Star daily updates. 

What did you want to be when you were a teenager?

When I was teenager, I was back-and-forth about whether or not to pursue something creative, academic or both. On any given day of the week, I had something new in mind: I wanted to be an artist, a lawyer, a journalist, an author. Sometimes all at once. 

Describe the best/worst outfit you ever wore as a teen.

Gosh! I used to wear this absolutely terrible tie-dye blouse I bought from a suburban Just Jeans. I wore it everywhere. But, in saying that, I had a killer pair of high-waisted shorts I used to get around in. My grandma found them at an op-shop.

Which celebrity did you have on your bedroom wall?

I had a huge crush on Meredith Godreau (Gregory and the Hawk). I had many, many photos of her pinned to my wall. 

What’s your favourite teen coming-of-age or romcom film?

This is embarrassing… but He’s Just Not That Into You is a guilty pleasure of mine.  

What’s the most underrated banger of the 2000s?

I know it was 1997… so a little out of range, but Lighthouse Family’s High is such a banger. Honestly.

Rapid fire:

Avril Lavigne or Hilary Duff?

Hilary Duff. Only just. Metamorphosis was the first album I ever purchased. 

Tamagotchis or i-Zone cameras?

Tamagotchis!

Perfect Friday night: Blockbuster video or The Sims?

The Sims!

The OC or Gossip Girl?

Gossip Girl.

Light blue eyeshadow or rhinestone tattoos?

Definitely light blue eyeshadow.

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About Arabella Peterson:

Arabella is a freelance writer and content creator from Sydney. She cofounded The Ladies Network, a multifaceted platform for women in the creative industries where she was the editor-in-chief. Since then she has worked as a freelance writer, creative consultant and marketing specialist with the odd modelling gig on the side (on this very website, in fact). She is particularly interested in the intersection of fashion, feminism and environmentalism; specifically supporting local brands and sustainable practices and she loves exploring culture, art and fascinating people. She also cohosts a podcast about Adam Sandler, is obsessed with horror films and loves a good game of Dungeons and Dragons. Follow Arabella on Instagram: @arabella_peterson