Michelle Obama shares throwback picture from prom night

Former first lady wore a satin, polka-dot dress for her prom night in 1982

(Getty Images/Instagram (@michelleobama))

Michelle Obama has shared a throwback photograph from her prom night in the 1980s in a bid to encourage students in the US to register to vote.

The former US first lady shared the picture on her Twitter and Instagram accounts, showing her sitting in a wicker chair while her date, David Upchurch, stood to the side.

“Throwing it back to my 1982 prom night and this pink satin, polka-dotted dress,” Obama wrote in the caption.

The 56-year-old continued, explaining that she shared her prom photograph as part of the “#PromChallenge”.

The Prom Challenge is an initiative organised by When We All Vote and MTV as a means of increasing the number of young people registering to vote.

“If you’re a student or teacher, join the #PromChallenge with @WhenWeAllVote and @MTV and tell us what your school is doing to register students to vote – you could get a free prom for your school!” Obama wrote.

“Learn more at prom.mtv.com. You can also help me spread the word by posting your prom photo with #PromChallenge.”

Several people commented on the best-selling author’s prom picture, with one Instagram user describing it as “iconic”.

“Lowkey I would wear this outfit now,” one person wrote.

“Yes Queen!! You’ve been it your whole life!!” someone else remarked.

On the Prom Challenge website, it outlines that the campaign has been launched with the support of several brands, including Rent the Runway.

It explains that the aim of the initiative is “to celebrate and recognise 20 high schools across the country integrating voter registration into their schools in the most creative and impactful ways”

“The winners of the competition will receive up to $5,000 (£3,837) to make their school’s prom dreams come true.”

In January, Obama released a workout playlist to help give people an “extra boost” when they exercise in the new year.

Her playlist featured songs by artists including Lizzo, Childish Gambino, Cardi B and Beyoncé.