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The Daily Dish The Real Housewives of New Jersey

We Barely Recognize Jennifer Aydin in Photos from Her 2002 Promise of Engagement

You have never seen The Real Housewives of New Jersey mom as low-key as she appears in these old photos. 

By Zoey Washington
Jennifer Aydin Engagment

When it comes to over-the-top, unapologetically girly, sexy, and super-luxe styles, Jennifer Aydin takes the cake. The custom bag-carrying, sparkly purple ensemble-wearing, feather fascinator-loving New Jersey mom loves herself some glam and we love her for it. Which is why when The Real Housewives of New Jersey beauty shared a few pics on Instagram circa 2002 wearing little makeup and a totally low-key look, we couldn't help but do a double take. 

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On September 24, Jennifer posted a series of throwback snaps from her promise of engagement party that was held at her Long Island home back in the day. According to Jennifer, she was given a cross instead of a ring to symbolize the upcoming engagement — but apparently, she didn't even get the ring until just before walking down the aisle a year later. 

"Instead of proposing with a ring, I was given a cross to signify the engagement. #funfact My husband never proposed to me!" she explained in her caption.

In the photos, the baby-faced stunner has her chestnut hair casually blown out with soft, voluminous curls. Her makeup is minimal, though we do spot an appropriately early aughts frosted eyeshadow and pink lip gloss. 

Her spaghetti-strapped, halter dress was a classic 2002 LBD with white, criss-crossed lines and red bow details (check out the ribbon belt and matching rosette on the chest — so '02, so good).

The entire look was fresh-faced and pared-down, but still totally Jennifer. 

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