Michelle Visage, 57, shared a collection of throwback photographs from her high school days on Instagram, offering a glimpse into her teenage years in the 1980s. The images included snapshots from her junior and senior proms, showcasing a hairstyle with voluminous curly hair that contrasts with her current sleek black look.
In a post accompanying the photos, Visage reflected on the era, noting that the pictures were taken on Fairmount Ave. in South Plainfield, New Jersey, during the 1980s. She described the common practice of taking formal photos in front of decorative collections, such as Toby Jugs and Hummels, in her childhood home. Visage mentioned that these collections, which her mother believed held significant value, now serve as reminders of her mother and the importance of decluttering.
Visage recalled her junior prom photos, joking that she appeared older than her age due to 1980s fashion. For her senior prom at age 17, she wore a blue dress that she designed herself. Another image featured Visage at 15, posing in a black zip-up dress purchased from the 1980s mall store Merry-Go-Round, where she later secured a job. "The zip went from top to bottom and I ended up getting a job at the store I bought it from which was the most epic mall store of the 80’s: MERRY-GO-ROUND," she wrote.
Visage also touched upon her personal life, including her marriage of over 25 years to actor David Case. She recently discussed their open marriage in an interview, stating that it contributes to their relationship's strength. Visage explained that the couple practices full transparency in their lives, a dynamic that she believes works for them.
Visage, a three-time Primetime Emmy Award winner as a producer for "RuPaul's Drag Race," also spoke about the show's positive impact, particularly on young people. She expressed that the show's themes of determination, kindness, and self-love could have helped her navigate personal struggles with identity and body image during her own youth. Visage, who is a mother to two daughters, also shared insights on parenting children with diverse needs and identities, emphasizing unconditional love and acceptance.
Before gaining widespread recognition as a judge on "RuPaul's Drag Race," Visage rose to prominence in the late 1980s as a member of the R&B group Seduction. Her career has also included appearances on reality television, such as "Celebrity Big Brother" in the UK, and participation in "Strictly Come Dancing."