Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Returns with New Diversity Focus

Brooklyn, NY — The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show returned on Wednesday night with a renewed focus on diversity and inclusivity. This year’s event, directed by CEO Hillary Super, featured a range of models of various sizes and backgrounds, including pregnant model Jasmine Tookes, who stunned in gold and wings, symbolizing a new era for the brand.

Super emphasized a shift away from the traditionally narrow vision of beauty that the brand had been criticized for in recent years. “Sexy is back — but this time it’s different,” she stated during the show. The event showcased not only iconic Victoria’s Secret Angels like Bella and Gigi Hadid but also included plus-size models such as Ashley Graham and Paloma Elsesser, marking a significant change from past years when runway representation was primarily thin and cisgender models.

Despite facing backlash and scrutiny for its practices and leadership, the company has made strides towards showcasing a more inclusive image. According to Alyssa Hardy, style director at Teen Vogue, the ongoing transformation reflects broader changes in the fashion industry. “In 2025, it shouldn’t be commendable to have a cast representing different body types; it should be the standard,” Hardy wrote in a recent op-ed. This sentiment resonates as the brand seeks to rebuild trust with consumers.

The show, which aired live from Brooklyn, also featured performances from popular artists and highlighted women from various fields, including WNBA star Angel Reese and gymnast Suni Lee. The involvement of such figures reflects Victoria’s Secret’s commitment to embracing a more holistic view of femininity and beauty.

While the show has been lauded for its efforts, some critics argue that the brand still has a long way to go. “It’s not fully noble to be inclusive; it’s good business,” Hardy noted, suggesting that the brand’s profitability may be linked to these changes in approach. As much as this event marked a celebration of progress, it also served as a reminder of the imperative for ongoing change in an industry often resistant to it.

The fashion show aimed to rekindle its ‘fantastical display’ of beauty reminiscent of its earlier years while addressing crucial issues. Victoria’s Secret looks poised to reclaim its former place in the fashion world with a newfound emphasis on representation and community engagement.