Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Returns with New Vision

After a six-year hiatus, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show made its much-anticipated return on October 15, 2024, in Brooklyn, New York, marking a significant shift from its past productions. The lingerie brand is being reshaped by a more inclusive approach, as evidenced by the diverse lineup of models and performances.

Gigi Hadid, 29, was among the models who graced the runway, donning the iconic wings in a PETA-approved faux feather design. Among those present were seasoned Angels like Adriana Lima, alongside debutants such as Kate Moss and her daughter Lila. Cher, known for her captivating performances, stole the show with renditions of “Believe” and “Strong Enough.”

This year’s show highlighted a broader range of models, including plus-sized and older participants, as well as more racial diversity than seen in past events. Reflecting changes in the fashion industry, the event is now streamed online rather than being televised.

Victoria’s Secret, historically renowned for defining femininity with scantily clad supermodels, faced backlash over a lack of diversity and dated beauty standards in the late 2010s. The company has been making strategic efforts to reform its image and capture the attention of a more diverse audience.

The fashion industry has shifted towards inclusivity, largely driven by emerging brands such as Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty, which have been lauded for their diverse casting and inclusive sizing. In response, Victoria’s Secret canceled its traditional show in 2019, and in 2023, introduced “Victoria’s Secret: The Tour,” showcasing garments from global designers and featuring various underrepresented models.

In an interview with CNN, Sarah Sylvester, executive vice president of marketing at Victoria’s Secret, acknowledged that the brand is embracing its legacy while evolving to be “more modern and more inclusive.” The show’s success is yet to be determined, as the brand continues to navigate these changes under new leadership.

Meanwhile, some famous faces like Heidi Klum, Gisele Bündchen, and Miranda Kerr were absent, owing to contractual obligations or personal decisions to focus on other ventures. This marks a shift in the industry’s narratives, focusing more on individuality and broader conceptions of beauty.