Victoria’s Secret made a stunning return to the runway on October 15, 2024, in New York City after a six-year hiatus. The iconic lingerie brand showcased a revamped vision centered on inclusivity, featuring models of all body types, ages, and ethnicities, redefining beauty standards.
This season’s lingerie collection dazzled with shades of pastel pink and blue, accented by bold black and striking red, creating a vibrant and eye-catching palette.
Highlights from the Runway
The runway was graced by a star-studded lineup of top models and Victoria’s Angels from various eras, each bringing their unique flair to the show. Supermodel Gigi Hadid, 29, opened the event, donning the brand’s iconic wings and captivating the audience with an entrance reminiscent of a Taylor Swift concert.
Iconic Walks and Representation
The show highlighted a diverse array of talent:
- Plus-Size Representation: Models Ashley Graham and Paloma Elsesser demonstrated that beauty comes in all sizes.
- Ageless Beauty: The stunning presence of Tyra Banks, 50, reminded everyone that confidence knows no age limits. Banks, who last walked for Victoria’s Secret in 2005, made a powerful statement about embracing beauty at any age.
- Diversity on Display: Models Imaan Hammam (Moroccan-Egyptian), Jasmine Tookes (African American), Taylor Hill (American), and He Cong (Asian) confirmed the brand’s commitment to ethnic inclusivity.
- Mother-Daughter Duo: Kate Moss, 50, and her daughter Lila Moss, 21, made a significant impact by debuting on the runway in contrasting lingerie looks.
- Hadid Sisters: Gigi and Bella Hadid commanded attention, with Gigi’s opening walk setting a high bar.
- Victoria’s Secret Favorites: The return of Angels Adriana Lima, 43, and Candice Swanepoel, 36, added a nostalgic touch to the show.
- Transgender Inclusion: Transgender models Valentina Sampaio, 27, and Alex Consani, 23, dazzled on the runway, embodying the brand’s commitment to inclusivity. Their presence addressed past criticisms of sexism and ageism, signaling a new era for Victoria’s Secret.
Supermodel legends also had their moments. Doutzen Kroes experienced a brief mishap when her heel caught on a crack in the runway, but she handled it with grace, bending down to free her heel without missing a beat. Irina Shayk delivered one of the best walks of the night, mesmerizing the audience with her poise and presence, while Tyra Banks closed the show with a triumphant finale.
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A Musical Extravaganza
True to tradition, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show featured live performances from an all-female lineup, adding excitement and empowerment to the event. K-pop sensation Lisa brought the house down with her hit “LALISA,” captivating the audience with her dynamic dance moves and electrifying stage presence. The crowd erupted in cheers, showcasing her immense popularity and the universal appeal of K-pop. Lisa’s walk was particularly memorable; her precise choreography and fierce attitude set the tone for the show, captivating both the audience and fellow models alike.
Joining her was the lively Tyla, who performed her infectious track “Water,” getting the audience on their feet and dancing along. Her vibrant energy and catchy beats perfectly complemented the runway’s atmosphere, creating an engaging and celebratory vibe. Music legend Cher closed the show with a medley of her timeless classics, including “Believe,” leaving the audience in awe and evoking nostalgia. Her powerful vocals and charismatic presence added a touch of glamour and history to the evening.
The selection of these stars underscored Victoria’s Secret’s commitment to showcasing diverse talent and celebrating female empowerment. Each artist brought a unique style that resonated with the audience, embodying the brand’s new direction toward inclusivity.
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The Long Wait for Victoria’s Secret Explained
The last show took place in 2018, after which the brand faced backlash for its adherence to narrow beauty standards. Controversial comments from former chief marketing officer Ed Razek, who stated that “the show is a fantasy” and implied that the brand would not cast plus-size models, further strained relationships with potential sponsors, leading to the show’s hiatus. Over these six years, Victoria’s Secret diligently worked to reshape its image and meet evolving customer expectations, paving the way for this impactful return.
Victoria’s Secret 2024 Facing Criticism
Despite the show’s successes, it was not without its critiques. Some models struggled with the high heels, and certain walks fell flat, drawing public scrutiny. Candice Swanepoel’s less engaging performance disappointed some fans, while the absence of model Winnie Harlow raised questions about the brand’s commitment to inclusivity. Additionally, the stage design was perceived as less glamorous than in previous years, which some attributed to ongoing sponsor challenges.
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Conclusion
Overall, while the show encountered its share of criticism, the central theme of body positivity resonated strongly, making Victoria’s Secret’s comeback compelling and impactful. The 2024 show marks a significant shift in the brand’s approach, embracing a more inclusive future while retaining the glitz and glamour synonymous with its heritage.
