After a five-year hiatus, after canceling the runway show schedule in 2019, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show made a triumphant comeback on October 15, 2024, in New York City. The event, held at the brand’s newly revamped Brooklyn flagship store, aimed to reclaim its former glory with a fresh, inclusive approach that spoke to the brand’s evolving identity. But questions swirl if this effort was enough to sway the critics and consumers.
The show did feature an impressive lineup, blending returning supermodels and new faces. Opening the show was the return of Gigi Hadid in a satin pink playsuit with the iconic angel wings that continued to grow as she walked down the runway. Some other recognizable faces such as Candice Swanepoel, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Behati Prinsloo brought back the classic “Angel” energy in elegant lace designs. Imaan Hammam, Taylor Hill, and newly-winged beauty, Devyn Garcia also graced the runway, showcasing more experimental, high-fashion lingerie styles. Wings in a variety of styles and shapes swarmed the runway in designs such as butterfly, tulle, feather accents and even script lettering spelling Victoria’s Secret.
Paloma Elsesser made a groundbreaking appearance as the first plus-sized model to walk the Victoria’s Secret runway.She strutted confidently in a pink satin baby-doll dress, symbolizing the brand’s shift toward greater inclusivity. Ashley Graham, also made a stunning appearance flaunting a black-lace bodysuit with a whisy cape behind her. Another attempt at an inclusive cast was Eva Herzigova and Carla Bruni taking the runway, reliving their early modeling era. And Tyra Banks stole the spotlight with her first appearance since 2005, strutting down the runway in a jaw-dropping corset adorned with cascading feathers. Notably- the costumes were not as unique and playful as years past, but played a more reserved approach.
Standout Moments
The most unforgettable moment came when Cher, the surprise musical guest, performed her classic hits. Her presence injected fun and spontaneity into the show, especially when some of the models danced along mid-walk. Tyla also made her debut appearance on the catwalk and performed along the angelic beauties.
Did Victoria’s Secret Win Back Their Audience?
Victoria’s Secret clearly attempted to address past criticisms by introducing more diverse body types, designs, age, and identities. However, some critics noted that while the show’s inclusivity was a step in the right direction, it still felt like an aesthetic band-aid over deeper issues with the brand’s image. The collection leaned heavily on nostalgia, with many designs echoing past shows, which may not resonate with modern consumers seeking truly progressive fashion.
While the night was full of stunning visuals and big names, whether Victoria’s Secret has fully regained the trust of its customers remains to be seen. The majority of models still fit a particular mold that embodies the brands recent criticism, and “sprinkled” in a bit of that inclusivity with new faces. Was this a genuine approach? Did viewers feel touched and accepting of the efforts made to impress the VS customer? The brand still faces the challenge of balancing its iconic legacy with the evolving expectations of today’s more socially conscious market.