On October 15, 2024, after almost a six year hiatus since its last show in 2018, Victoria’s Secret will have a new reign of models that will dawn the iconic, feathered wings. Details of the upcoming runway are scarce, and more information will be known as time ticks towards the New York City date.
Fans have been anticipating the return of the glamorous runways for years, but Victoria’s Secret was no exception to backlash over the years. From the minimal effort of diverse models, body image issues in girls, and the “goal” of unattainability. Controversy was inescapable, especially when Ed Razek, the chief marketing exec, made transphobic comments towards casting ideas- the 2019 show never came.
With conflicts dragging down the brand’s image and revenue, Victoria’s Secret rebranded in 2021. The rebrand drastically changed from bold, intricate lingeries to neutral, simplistic pieces, and the ‘Angels’ lost their wings.
“We needed to be about what women want.” An executive of Victoria’s Secret claimed. The rebrand focused on female empowerment, with seven women with outstanding accomplishments to represent the new message of Victoria Secret, and formed the VS Collective to redefine “sexy.”
The Victoria’s Secret rebrand met with hoards of criticism, heading strong with casting diverse body types, but the overall “blandness” of the Walmart-esque sets left audiences bored with the brand’s direction and lack of authenticity.
“We’ve heard you,” the brand stated in an Instagram caption back in May 2024, “The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is back and will reflect who we are today, and more! Stay tuned…it only gets more iconic from here.”
Iconic indeed, as a few performers were recently announced, featuring Lisa of Blackpink, Tyla, and Cher to perform during the show. The full model lineup hasn’t been released but this year will have a mix of new and returning faces, such as Gigi Hadid who walked from 2015 – 2018, and Tyra Banks who was one of the original ‘Angels’.
“The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show will deliver what our customers have been asking for— the glamour, runway, fun, wings– all through a powerful, modern lens reflecting who we are today.” a representative shared to People Magazine.
With the show just three weeks away, many hope this year’s Victoria’s Secret show will reflect what’s been wanted for ages.
