Time flies, leaving little room for creating enduring memories with our loved ones. Yet, the extraordinary Brown sisters defy this notion. Back in 1975, Nicholas Nixon, Bebe’s husband, took a photograph of the sisters. Intriguingly, they collectively decided to recreate this image every year for four decades. These remarkable pictures stand as a poignant testament to the diverse journeys the sisters have traversed together over the years.
1. 1975, the photo journey begins
The family photo project initiated by Nixon and the Brown sisters commenced in 1975. Each picture maintains a consistent style, featuring solely the date and location as annotations. From left to right, the individuals captured in this photograph are Heather, Mimi, Bebe, and Laurie. At the time, their ages were twenty-one, twenty-five, fifteen, and twenty-three, respectively. Intriguingly, future portraits will also include Nixon himself alongside the sisters.
2. 1976, extraordinary matching dresses
The origin of the sisters’ penchant for matching dresses in many of the pictures remains uncertain, leaving it open to interpretation as a deliberate choice or a remarkable coincidence. However, in this specific photograph, Laurie and Bebe are both adorned in identical dresses, symbolizing their strong bond and embodying their playful nature.
3. 1977, I wonder if the sisters were Star Wars fans or not?
Released in 1977, the legendary Star Wars Episode IV – A New Hope captivated devoted fans who proudly embraced Star Wars merchandise as a symbol of their passion for the franchise. In this specific photograph of the Brown sisters, there are no visible indications of their affiliation with Star Wars. Nonetheless, one could speculate that the sisters were enthusiastic fans of the series, joining the multitude of admirers during that era.
4. 1978, the sisters might have watched Grease
This year marked the premiere of the timeless musical romance film Grease, featuring the charismatic duo John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. The immense fandom surrounding the movie led to a widespread trend of sporting leather jeans throughout half of America. In this particular picture, the Brown sisters are not adorned in the fashion of devoted Grease fans. However, it is highly likely that they have either watched the movie or perhaps are fans of Fleetwood Mac.
5. 1979, all set for a new decade
As the Brown sisters prepare to document another decade of their lives, their choice of clothing and styles in each photograph remains captivating. What is remarkable is how the dresses and fashion worn by these women forty years ago still possess a timeless quality and continue to be fashionable today. It highlights the cyclical nature of fashion, where trends have a tendency to resurface and remind us that certain styles can endure the test of time.
6. 1980, the sister’s love never ends
In this particular photograph, the Brown sisters have shifted their pose, radiating an unmistakable sense of joy and happiness. It is evident that they thoroughly enjoy each other’s company and share a deep bond. While the change in their demeanor could be attributed to a significant event like a wedding or a graduation party, it is heartwarming to witness their genuine happiness and the pleasure they derive from being together. Their collective joy is a testament to the enduring strength of their sisterhood.
7. 1981, the sisters must be thinking about to start working as adults
The economic disparities between different time periods can be quite striking. In 1981, the minimum wage was $3.10 per hour, and a bag of Lay’s chips cost $1.98. Given that most of the sisters were in their twenties at the time, it is plausible to consider that they may have worked jobs that paid the minimum wage. Fast forward to the present day, and the minimum wage has increased to $7.25 per hour, while the price of a bag of Lay’s chips has risen to $2.98. These figures illustrate the changes in economic factors over the years, reflecting the evolving nature of wages and the cost of goods.
8. 1982, the weather is quite chilly
In this outdoor photograph, the sisters may be on vacation or capturing a memorable event. In 1982, Sony Walkmans were affordable at $130, revolutionizing music on the go. Today, technology has evolved with smartphones and MP3 players ranging from $100 to $4000, showcasing how our media consumption has transformed.
9. 1983, Do you think the sisters were playing Jenga?
This year, Jenga became a popular stacking block game. It’s intriguing to speculate if the sisters have played and who excelled. The immersive photograph includes viewers in the sisters’ conversation, capturing their strong bond. The composition invites the audience to share in their connection and creates a sense of inclusion.
10. 1984, we can see the shadow of Nixon
In 1984, “Baby on Board” signs gained popularity for emergency response purposes. In this beach photo, the sisters are joyful, with Nixon’s faint shadow visible. His inclusion creatively solidifies his presence in their cherished memories.
11. 1985, a new year, a new photo
The Brown sisters and Nixon continue their committed family photo project, now spanning ten years. Their ages, in no particular order, highlight the passage of time. In 1985, “New Coke” by Coca-Cola made its debut, leaving a significant impact on the beverage industry until its discontinuation in 2002.
12. 1986, A close up
In this year’s photo, the Brown sisters radiate joy and anticipation for their annual project. Meanwhile, 1986 witnessed the rise of Dionne Warwick’s hit song “That’s What Friends Are For,” which became a beloved anthem celebrating friendship.
13. 1987, Focus is on Bebe and Mimi
In this photo, Bebe and Mimi take center stage, while Heather and Laurie linger in the background. This composition suggests a unique pose or signifies a significant event in the lives of Bebe and Mimi. It provides a glimpse into their individual journeys and the moments they choose to commemorate in the family portrait.
14. 1988, we spot go-to-luxury cheetah print
Laurie stands out in this photo with her cheetah print outfit, reflecting the popular animal print trend of the ’80s. The choice of attire adds a touch of style and elegance to the composition. In 1988, the release of the film Rain Man starring Tom Cruise sparks curiosity about the sisters’ potential admiration for the actor or the movie itself. Their shared interests and influences make for an intriguing aspect within the context of their collective experiences.
15. 1989, a mystery picture
Heather’s partial visibility in the photograph, concealed behind Mimi, raises speculation that she may be pregnant. The deliberate decision to keep personal aspects outside the frame highlights the sisters’ dedication to emphasizing their collective bond and the ongoing photo project. In 1989, the reduced price of the Sony Walkman to $79 reflects its increased affordability, making the iconic portable music player accessible to a wider audience. This shift in pricing further solidified the Walkman’s cultural impact and enduring popularity.
16. 1990, once again they are together on a cold day
In the 90s, the Brown sisters embraced the vibrant spirit of the decade by capturing their family photo on a chilly winter day. Dressed in matching outfits, they radiate visual harmony. Mimi and Bebe don denim attire, while Heather and Laurie opt for cozy fleece outfits. The coordinated ensembles enhance the photograph’s charm and highlight their shared style and strong bond.
17. 1991, they are look-alikes
Over fifteen years, the sisters have developed a striking resemblance, especially Mimi, Heather, and Laurie. Time has brought forth a shared similarity in their appearance. In 1991, the hit song “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana was released, named after an actual deodorant. This fact adds curiosity to the cultural landscape, revealing the creative inspirations behind popular music.
18. 1992, Mimi looks pregnant
Nixon captures a moment of intrigue and discretion in this photo, as Heather’s gaze and touch on Mimi’s stomach raise the possibility of pregnancy. However, it’s important to approach assumptions with caution, as the intention may be to create mystery and encourage speculation without confirming specific details.
19. 1993, their first shot at the nighttime
This photo breaks the pattern by being captured at night with a flash, diverging from the previous daytime shots. The change in timing suggests a creative endeavor by the Brown sisters and Nixon to explore new possibilities and keep the project fresh. The darkness of the night and the sudden burst of light from the flash create a captivating contrast, adding an element of mystery to the composition.
The illuminated faces of the sisters reveal subtle expressions, hinting at emotions that might not have been captured in the daylight. This experimentation adds a dimension of innovation to their family photo tradition, showcasing their willingness to push boundaries and embrace new approaches. It reflects their desire to break free from the constraints of convention and find unique ways to capture the essence of their bond.
20. 1994, another close-up
In a parallel reminiscent of 1986, a similar close-up picture was captured by Nixon, possibly indicating a deliberate recreation in the same location or setting. Turning our focus to 1994, an event of note was the mud fight during Green Day’s Woodstock performance. The unexpected incident involved a security guard mistakenly punching the band’s guitarist, Mike Dirnt, in a memorable turn of events that left a lasting impact on the festival’s history.
21. 1995, the strong sisterly bond
The sisters’ loving embrace in the photograph showcases their deep bond and affection. Notably, throughout the series, they are seen wearing minimal jewelry, which may reflect their personal preference for a more natural and authentic look. This intentional choice keeps the focus on their genuine selves, allowing their personalities and the essence of their relationship to shine through in the photographs. The absence of excessive jewelry adds a subtle and genuine touch to the overall aesthetic of the images.
22. 1996, another photo re-created
This photo is a recreation of a 1984 image taken by Nixon, exactly twelve years earlier. Intriguingly, in both pictures, Nixon’s shadow overlaps his wife. Turning our attention to a significant event in 1996, the launch of the highly popular “Tickle Me Elmo” toy captivated the market. This red plush toy quickly became a sensation, generating immense demand from children. However, its overwhelming popularity and limited availability turned it into a nightmare for many parents, who struggled to acquire this coveted toy for their children.
23. 1997, when Diana was no more
The sisters are clearly enjoying each other’s company on a breezy day, as seen through their joyful expressions and relaxed poses, with their hair gently tousled by the wind. Directing our focus to a significant event in 1997, it was marred by the tragic death of Princess Diana in a car accident. It is possible that the sisters, aware of this devastating news, opted to dress in somber colors, including black, as a way to pay homage or convey their condolences. Their choice of attire symbolizes the profound impact of this tragic event on a global scale, reflecting their awareness and sensitivity towards such a loss.
24. 1998, Bebe has got the center stage
In the photograph taken that year, Nixon purposefully centers his focus on Bebe, forming a visually captivating composition where the three sisters encircle and support their eldest sibling. Turning our attention to a related subject, it is noteworthy that in 1998, a significant milestone was reached in the United States with the life expectancy of females reaching 79.5 years.
This substantial increase in life expectancy highlights advancements in healthcare, improved living conditions, and a growing awareness of healthy lifestyles. It serves as a testament to the progress made in promoting the well-being and longevity of women in the country.
25. 1999, Protecting Bebe from the chili wind
The Brown sisters have returned to the beach, revisiting a location they previously captured in 1984. It holds sentimental value, evident in their choice to return to this cherished family vacation spot. In this photo, a notable detail emerges: all the sisters, except Bebe, are dressed in cozy fleece attire.
This choice of clothing suggests their intention to shield and protect Bebe from the chilly winds, showcasing the care and consideration they hold for one another. It serves as a testament to the strong bond they share, exemplified through their actions and gestures captured in the photograph.
26. 2000, the Brown’s welcoming the new century
The Brown sisters celebrate their New Year’s party on the beach, symbolizing the journey of their photo project. Nixon captures them from a distance, representing the progress they have made over the years. In the new century, the global population reaches 6 billion, signifying growth and diversity on a global scale.
27. 2001, Thank God, the sisters are safe
The sisters’ warm embrace and evident enjoyment of each other’s company serve as a poignant reminder to cherish the present moment, despite the impactful and tragic event that occurred in America in 2001, known as 9/11. It signifies the importance of finding joy and solace in the midst of challenging circumstances, highlighting the resilience and determination of the sisters to make the most of their time together.
28. 2002, rocking the “Polo“
The sisters don stylish Polo attire, except for Heather, showcasing their impeccable fashion choices and dedication to their ongoing photo project. In 2002, “New Coke” was discontinued and Coca-Cola Classic was reintroduced, sparking curiosity about the sisters’ thoughts on this iconic beverage’s transformation. Their personal preferences remain unknown, adding an intriguing layer to their shared experiences during this time of change.
29. 2003, the Brown’s are keeping up with the new trends
The sisters don stylish Polo outfits for the photo project, with the exception of Heather. In 2002, Coca-Cola reintroduced Classic after discontinuing New Coke, sparking curiosity about the sisters’ reaction to this beverage change.
30. 2004, Heather and Laurie at the front:
Heather and Laurie take the spotlight this year, their focus on each other rather than the camera, hinting at a special bond or milestone in their lives.
31. 2005, why is Laurie looking away?
Laurie’s diverted gaze adds an intriguing element to the photograph, raising questions about her intentions and thoughts. In a playful twist, one might speculate if she is on the lookout for members of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, known for their unique colander headwear.
32. 2006, sun-kissed photo
Bathed in the warm sunlight, the sisters radiate beauty and a strong bond. The sun’s rays enhance the photo, emphasizing their timeless connection. In 2006, the rise of Blu-rays surpassed DVDs in popularity, revolutionizing information storage and access with their advanced technology and superior quality.
33. 2007, This time Mimi is hiding
Mimi seeks solace behind Bebe, while Bebe and Heather take the spotlight, with Laurie and Mimi positioned in the background. Laurie’s wedding ring subtly signifies her marital status, while Bebe’s elegant bracelet adds a stylish touch to the composition. In 2006, the introduction of the revolutionary iPhone transformed the technological landscape. Priced at $599, it became an iconic symbol of innovation, revolutionizing communication and interaction with the world.
34. 2008, Nixon’s fingers
The Brown sisters share a heartwarming embrace, symbolizing their deep love and enduring bond. In a lighthearted twist, 2008 saw a change in lightning safety protocol, with NOAA recommending walking instead of crouching during a lightning storm. This amusing fact reflects the evolving nature of scientific recommendations and our growing knowledge of natural phenomena.
35. 2009, so peaceful and content
Laurie’s serene gesture of resting her head on Babe’s shoulder captures the sisters’ deep connection. In the music realm, 2009 witnessed the rise of the catchy dance hit “Teach Me How to Dougie” by Cali Swag. This lively track became a favorite among dance enthusiasts. As we look ahead, let’s eagerly anticipate the next decade of the Brown sisters’ remarkable journey through their timeless photographs.
36. 2010, where are Heather and Mimi looking
Heather and Mimi’s intrigued gazes in the photo leave us curious about what caught their attention, whether it be something intriguing or a creative pose by Nixon. On a different note, in 2010, the settlement of Mourisaq, located in an island country, had a population of only three individuals. However, it is notable that the settlement is now closed, marking a unique chapter in its history.
37. 2011, holding each other arm
The Brown sisters’ penchant for holding and embracing one another is evident in numerous photos, illustrating their profound bond and affection. In a different vein, an intriguing fact from 2011 is the inclusion of widely-used internet acronyms such as LOL (laugh out loud) and OMG (oh my god) in the esteemed Oxford English Dictionary. This official recognition highlights the influence of digital communication on our language and cultural landscape.
38. 2012. The world kept ongoing
Indeed, the rumored world-ending event in 2010 proved to be just that—a rumor. Life carried on, and the Brown sisters remained steadfast in their commitment to their annual family photo project, capturing yet another cherished moment in their journey. Their unwavering dedication reflects their resilience and the importance they attach to preserving their bond and creating lasting memories, regardless of any uncertainties or rumors that may arise.
39. 2013, they went on a break
After an impressive run of 39 consecutive pictures, the Brown sisters took a four-year hiatus from their family photo project, leaving us to wonder about the reasons behind this break. Though the exact cause remains a mystery, we can only hope that everything was well in their lives during that period. In 2013, a momentous event unfolded in the Catholic Church as Pope Benedict XVI made the historic decision to resign from his position. This marked the first papal resignation in nearly 600 years, sparking global discussions and generating significant interest.
40. 2017, the last photo of the project
In a poignant turn of events, the Brown sisters had a heartfelt reunion in 2017 to capture what would become the final photo of their long-standing project. Regrettably, it is rumored that one of the sisters may have passed away, and another sister did not give her consent to continue the project. This decision marked the conclusion of a remarkable visual journey that celebrated the enduring bond of sisterly love and affection, leaving us with a collection of cherished memories.