New Jersey teen designs a prom dress for the ages, claps back at critics

Prom season can be overwhelming for those seeking out one of a kind dresses for a night they’ll never forget.

One New Jersey teenager wanted a dress that reflected her personal style – so, when she couldn’t find one, she designed it.

Kyemah McEntyre’s dress went viral this week after she shared her creation on Instagram.

Taking cues from cultures all around the world, McEntyre, who was also crowned ‘Prom Queen’ at East Orange High School, described wanting to make a statement through a bold fashion choice,”you have to understand who you are because if you leave that space open, you leave your identity in the hands of society. Don’t let anyone define you.”

I'm Kyemah McEntyre, I am 18 years old and I am undoubtedly of African Descent. As an artist I have a completely different point of view compared to most individuals. I am extremely analytical and observant. Throughout the world, we have people who do not notice each others essence and humanity. We Stunt our collective spiritual growth by allowing assumptions and stereotypes to cloud our mind and thus our physical reality. We let these negative ideas get the best of us, and in turn a world of isolation is manifested by our lack of sensitivity and desire to sympathize with each other. This results in a world in which people live within the confines of their own space, isolated from each other and separated from the rest of the world.Sometimes we get trapped in our own prejudice ways. We don't notice how the idea of a particular type of person changes the way we live our lives. The most creative people are the ones who step out of their comfort zone and take advantage of the world around them. My abilities as an artist allows me to experience the benefits that versatility fosters. Being exposed to all kinds of people and cultures is the muse for my artwork. I am an aspiring artist who is very passionate about the connection between art and the world. I believe that in order for society to gain a wider horizon, we have to be willing to acknowledge other people from differences, beliefs, morals, and values. I would like to take this moment to say that you have to understand who you are because if you leave that space open, you leave your identity in the hands of society. Don't let anyone define you. Beautiful things happen when you take pride in yourself. #blackgirlsrock #kyebreaktheinternet

A photo posted by Kyemah McEntyre (@mindofkye) on Jun 6, 2015 at 2:32pm PDT

Time to Turn Uppppp #Classof2015 #prom2k15 #prom2015

A video posted by Kyemah McEntyre (@mindofkye) on Jun 4, 2015 at 3:41pm PDT

I am beyond grateful, what a magical night. #prom2k15 #kyebreaktheinternet #blackgirlsrock #nofilter #promqueen ✊??

A photo posted by Kyemah McEntyre (@mindofkye) on Jun 5, 2015 at 6:14am PDT

Close ups #nofilter #blackgirlsrock #kyebreaktheinternet #prom2k15 #promqueen

A photo posted by Kyemah McEntyre (@mindofkye) on Jun 5, 2015 at 7:00am PDT

In another post, she shared that the dress served as a cathartic moment, writing, “This is for always being labeled as, ‘ugly’ or ‘angry’. Thank God, stereotypes are just opinions.”

McEntyre will be attending the Parsons School of Design – one of the nation’s pre-eminent fashion design schools – this fall.