Victoria’s Secret returns with a renewed focus on diversity and inclusion, highlighting new standards.

The Return of the Iconic Angels

The appearance of Adriana Lima, 43, who started her career with Victoria’s Secret in 2000, was a momentous occasion. Lima had retired after the brand’s last show in 2018 but made a triumphant return, once again donning the iconic angel wings. Her participation was particularly symbolic, bridging the gap between the brand’s storied past and its new, more inclusive identity. Alongside Lima were other legendary models like Alessandra Ambrosio, Isabeli Fontana, Kate Moss, Eva Herzigova, and Carla Bruni, some of whom had been part of Victoria’s Secret's previous shows in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

These models, many of them in their forties and fifties, represented a broader definition of beauty that the brand now embraces. Their presence highlighted that age is no longer a barrier in the world of fashion, a significant shift from the former Victoria’s Secret, which was known for celebrating youth and thinness above all else. Their return symbolized a nostalgic callback for long-time fans while also sending a message of timeless elegance and beauty.

Victoria’s Secret’s New Direction

Victoria’s Secret had long been criticized for promoting unrealistic beauty standards, particularly with its narrow representation of what was considered sexy. However, in the years leading up to this runway show, the brand worked to rebrand itself to align with the values of modern women. This transformation was a response to the growing demand for inclusivity, with many women calling for changes in the brand’s messaging and image.

Acknowledging this shift, Victoria’s Secret released a statement earlier this year, stating: “We’ve heard your feedback, and we’re listening.” The brand promised to reflect “who we are today” in the new show, signaling a move away from its past exclusivity and towards a celebration of all women, regardless of their stage in life. The show featured models of varying ages, sizes, and ethnicities, including curvy models such as Ashley Graham, Paloma Elsesser, and Devyn Garcia. The inclusion of models like these marked a definitive break from the brand’s past, where thin, predominantly white models dominated the runway.

One of the most powerful moments in the show was the grand finale, where Tyra Banks, at 50 years old, took the stage as the leader of a diverse group of models. Tyra, with her natural afro and commanding presence, was joined by a mix of seasoned Victoria’s Secret veterans like Gigi Hadid, Candice Swanepoel, and Behati Prinsloo, as well as new faces like Lila Moss and transgender model Valentina Sampaio. This final tableau, set against a backdrop of falling pink confetti, visually embodied the brand’s new mission of inclusivity and empowerment.

While the runway still showcased models who fit the traditional mold of youth and thinness, Victoria’s Secret made a point of incorporating more diverse representation than ever before. The show included models over 30, mothers, women of various racial backgrounds, and curvier bodies—a stark contrast to the narrow beauty ideals the brand once promoted.

Ashley Graham, Paloma Elsesser, Fanta Bereteh, and Devyn Garcia were among the models who brought a new level of body diversity to the runway. The inclusion of these models was a crucial step for the brand, as it seeks to connect with a wider audience and embrace a broader range of femininity. By highlighting different body types, Victoria’s Secret demonstrated its commitment to celebrating all women, moving away from the exclusionary practices that had long drawn criticism.

The fashion show also featured various cultural influences. The opening of the show had an exciting start, as a motorcyclist weaved through New York City streets, only to arrive on the runway as the popular Thai singer Lisa. She performed her hit song "Rockstar," accompanied by a provocative choreography featuring dancers in bodysuits and short jackets. Throughout the show, the music was entirely performed by women, a deliberate choice to emphasize female empowerment. Performances by artists like Cher, who sang classics like "Strong Enough" and "Believe," as well as R&B singer Tyla and an unnamed rock singer, set the tone for each segment of the show.

Streaming the Show and Expanding Its Reach

One of the most notable changes to the Victoria’s Secret runway show was its shift to an online platform, marking a departure from the traditional television broadcast. The show, held in New York, was streamed live on the internet, allowing viewers from around the world to tune in and watch the spectacle. This decision reflects the changing landscape of media consumption, where streaming services and digital platforms have overtaken traditional television viewership.

By broadcasting the show online, Victoria’s Secret was able to reach a broader, more global audience, further emphasizing its efforts to become a more inclusive and accessible brand. This strategic move also allows for greater control over the narrative and content of the show, enabling the brand to focus on its new messaging without the constraints of network television standards or ratings concerns.

The comeback of the Victoria’s Secret fashion show also comes after a period of significant upheaval and controversy for the brand. The last show, held in 2018, faced declining television viewership, which eventually led to the cancellation of the event in 2019. However, the real issues ran much deeper than ratings. Victoria’s Secret faced serious allegations of sexual harassment within its work environment, which tarnished its reputation. Adding to the scandal, the company’s long-time owner, billionaire Les Wexner, was linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, further damaging the brand’s public image.

These controversies forced Victoria’s Secret to undertake a significant transformation. The company took several steps to distance itself from its troubled past, including removing Wexner from his position as CEO of its parent company, L Brands. This leadership change paved the way for more progressive initiatives aimed at women’s empowerment, such as featuring a broader range of body types and racial diversity in its advertising campaigns.

One of the brand’s most symbolic changes came when it replaced its iconic “angels” with prominent women from different walks of life, including activists, athletes, and actresses. These women were given a platform through a short-lived podcast to discuss issues relevant to the modern woman, reflecting a shift towards authenticity and social awareness. Although the podcast didn’t last long, it was part of the brand’s broader effort to repair its image and realign with the values of its customer base.

Moving Forward with Inclusivity

The most significant changes Victoria’s Secret has made in recent years have focused on reflecting the diversity of its clientele. This includes not only featuring more racially and ethnically diverse models but also catering to different needs, such as offering maternity and mastectomy bras. These moves have been warmly received, although there is still work to be done in terms of fully embodying the principles of body positivity and inclusivity in all aspects of the brand’s operations.

Victoria’s Secret’s return to the runway was a symbolic moment in the brand’s journey of reformation. The show itself was not just about showcasing lingerie; it was about making a statement of reinvention and reflecting the changing standards of beauty and femininity in society. The brand’s choice to bring back iconic figures like Adriana Lima and Tyra Banks, alongside new faces representing different body types, ages, and races, demonstrated its willingness to embrace a more inclusive and modern identity.

The Impact of the New Victoria’s Secret Show

As Victoria’s Secret continues to evolve, its recent runway show marks a pivotal moment in its history. The brand has moved beyond the controversies that once overshadowed its image and has embraced a new direction that celebrates women in all their diversity. This return to the runway has the potential to restore the brand’s prominence in the fashion world, provided it continues to honor the principles of inclusivity and empowerment that it now champions.