After a six-year hiatus, the iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show made its much-anticipated return to the runway, bringing back some of the biggest names in modeling. On Tuesday, models like Tyra Banks, Gigi and Bella Hadid, and a star-studded cast of former and new “angels” graced the catwalk, reviving one of fashion’s most talked-about events. The show, a staple from 1995 to 2018, took a break as the fashion industry reevaluated its values, largely driven by movements promoting body positivity, transgender rights, and the #MeToo campaign.
Victoria’s Secret’s decision to cancel the show in 2019 followed a period of significant controversy. At the time, the brand faced backlash due to its leadership’s association with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and controversial comments made by then-Chief Marketing Officer Ed Razek regarding transgender and plus-size models. These controversies, combined with changing cultural attitudes, led to the show being pulled from the calendar. However, in May 2024, the company announced the show’s return, promising a more inclusive and updated version that would better align with today’s values.
The 45-minute event, streamed on Amazon Prime Video and various social media platforms, included an all-women musical lineup for the first time ever. K-pop sensation LISA, South African singer Tyla, and music legend Cher performed during the show, with Cher closing the event with her iconic hits “Strong Enough” and “Believe.” This added a fresh dimension to the fashion show, blending high fashion with empowering musical performances.
The return of Victoria’s Secret’s most well-known models, including Adriana Lima, Candice Swanepoel, and Behati Prinsloo, added to the excitement. Lima, who had retired from the brand in 2018, was a welcome presence on the runway, while iconic supermodel Kate Moss made her Victoria’s Secret debut at age 50. In another surprise, former first lady of France, Carla Bruni, joined the show at 56, adding a level of sophistication and elegance to the event.
Notably, the show also saw the participation of body activist Ashley Graham, who was making her Victoria’s Secret debut. Graham, a mother of three and advocate for body diversity, admitted she was initially hesitant to join the brand due to its previous lack of inclusivity. However, reassured by the company’s new commitment to extended sizes and body representation, she walked the runway, symbolizing a shift toward a more inclusive future for the brand.
Tyra Banks, who made history as Victoria’s Secret’s first Black contract model, closed the show. Returning nearly two decades after her retirement, Banks received a rapturous reception, reminding audiences of her lasting influence on the brand and the fashion world.
While the show marked a triumphant return, it was not without its critics. Some viewers felt the event fell short of its promises regarding inclusivity, particularly when it came to the representation of plus-size models. Despite these concerns, the return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show signals the brand’s efforts to reclaim its former glory in a competitive and evolving market.
As Victoria’s Secret strives to rebuild its image and reconnect with a more diverse audience, the revival of its iconic fashion show is a key part of its strategy. Only time will tell whether the brand’s efforts will be enough to regain its place as a leader in the fashion industry.
