Does the Victoria's Secret show still make sense?

The last old school Victoria's Secret Fashion Show took place in 2018, at the height of controversies about inclusivity, unattainable beauty standards, and the extreme dieting practices models underwent before the runway. The debate was overwhelming. In November 2018, during an interview with Vogue, the brand's president Edward Razek made negative comments about the possible participation of trans models in the show. His resignation in August 2019 was followed by harassment and bullying accusations from Monica Mitro, the VP of public relations. Other scandals soon followed, ranging from racism and the use of stereotypes in campaigns to employees reporting mistreatment, and even the founder Les Wexner's connections to Jeffrey Epstein.

The Grand Return of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

To recover from this avalanche of accusations and issues, the lingerie brand focused on inclusion. The show was suspended, and trans models Valentina Sampaio, Emira D'Spain, and Alex Consani were hired. Among other ambassadors were tennis player Naomi Osaka, Hailey Bieber, and Megan Rapinoe. After a pause, the brand returned to the runway in September 2023 with the Victoria's Secret World Tour, streaming on Prime Video. This global tour, with stops in cities like London, Tokyo, Lagos, and Bogotá, featured a range of designers and was promoted as more inclusive. The show officially returned on October 15, 2024, with the same format as before 2018. Yet again.

The Show's Cast: From Adriana Lima to Kate Moss, Featuring Bella Hadid

The highlight of this return to old school was undoubtedly the cast, meticulously selected to generate maximum social media hype. Gigi Hadid, Bella Hadid, and the major comeback of Adriana Lima and Candice Swanepoel. Also gracing the runway for the first time was Kate Moss, alongside Carla Bruni and Tyra Banks. But that's not all! Other stars included Doutzen Kroes, Ashley Graham, and Barbara Palvin, all adorned in feather wings, jewel-encrusted bras, and glittering outfits. Musical entertainment was provided by Tyla, Cher, and Lisa from Blackpink.

Does It Still Make Sense? The Reactions

Reactions to the show have been mixed. Some critique the energy, others the cast, or even the return to the past as if nothing had happened. Watching it, something indeed feels off. It's like observing an ancient ritual from another time. And from these times – distant, less aware, perhaps even more superficial – the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show remains a legitimate but no less outdated child. Its attitude toward women, their bodies, fashion, and femininity, which once fueled its success just 10 years ago, now feels lighthearted and unproblematic, making it feel out of place, even tone-deaf.

Victoria’s Secret and Inclusivity: The Attempts to Improve Lack Impact

In a world increasingly focused on topics like the male gaze, the intersectionality of feminist issues, ableism, and ageism, it seems like Victoria's Secret women exist in a parallel universe where nothing has changed since 2018. Efforts toward inclusivity feel whispered, barely acknowledged, and superficial. The brand focuses on successful, established models while ignoring the nuances of diversity and innovations in the industry. The result is a TV-style variety show, more suited for Instagram reels than for selling something, be it a lingerie set or an idea of beauty—it makes no difference.