The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show made its highly anticipated return, embracing a blend of nostalgic elements from its heyday while forging new paths. The event, held in New York, featured a grander production with elaborate wings and a more festive atmosphere, aiming to recapture the magic of past shows while incorporating modern inclusivity.
Key Takeaways
- The show embraced a nostalgic energy with a larger production budget and more fantastical wings.
- Performances by artists like Missy Elliott were highlights, drawing significant crowd enthusiasm.
- The brand made strides in diversity, featuring more plus-size models and athletes.
- There’s an ongoing discussion about whether the show’s fantasy element still resonates in today’s cultural landscape.
A Nostalgic Yet Evolved Production
The recent Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show marked a significant comeback, building on the previous year’s attempt. Editors noted a palpable increase in production value, reminiscent of the brand’s earlier, more theatrical shows. The return of elaborate wings and a grand stage contributed to a nostalgic ambiance, aiming to recapture the spectacle that once defined the event. Backstage, the atmosphere was described as “controlled chaos,” with high security and opportunities to interact with “OG Angels.”
Star-Studded Performances
Music has always been a crucial component of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, and this year was no exception. Missy Elliott was a standout performer, with her energetic set drawing immense cheers and being cited as a major highlight. Other notable performances included Madison Beer, K-pop group TWICE, and Karol G, adding to the show’s vibrant entertainment.
Embracing Inclusivity and Diversity
A significant focus of the show was its expanded inclusivity. The brand featured a more diverse cast of models, including multiple plus-size women like Devyn Garcia and Precious Lee, moving beyond token representation. Professional athletes, such as WNBA star Angel Reese and Olympic gymnast Suni Lee, were also given the spotlight, marking a new direction for the brand. The inclusion of diverse body types and the continued presence of transgender models like Alex Consani and Valentina Sampaio were noted as positive steps forward, though the majority of models remained straight-sized and cisgender.
Reflecting on the Brand’s Legacy
While the show celebrated a return to form with its fantastical elements and star power, discussions arose about its place in contemporary culture. Some observers felt the brand was trying too hard to modernize, while others appreciated the balance between inclusivity and the desired “fantasy” element. The show’s history, marked by controversies and criticism regarding body image and exclusivity, continues to be a point of reflection as Victoria’s Secret navigates its future.
Sources
- The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Debrief, According To Coveteur Editors, Coveteur.
- The 12 Best Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Performers of All Time, Harper’s BAZAAR.
- This Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Moved the Brand Forward — Is That the Progress We Want?, Teen Vogue.
- Highlights From the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Runway, The Cut.



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