Earlier this year Victoria’s Secret announced that they will return with their infamous fashion show. The first Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was held in 1995 at the Plaza Hotel to showcase lingerie which eventually evolved into a global phenomenon with millions of viewers. The show featured elaborate sets, stunning lingerie, and musical performances. The fashion show featured the most elite models or ‘Angels’ who were adorned with wings as they worked the runway. The show became an extravaganza filled with glamour and luxury.
The fashion show began its hiatus in 2019 after a 24-year-long run. This decision came following plummeting sales and show ratings amid other scandals. The chief marketing officer of the brand’s parent company was quoted saying that transgender women would not be cast in the show. This mixed with changing consumer values has been a challenge in order for Victoria’s Secret to maintain its reign. A brand that was seen as the arbiter of beauty, femininity, and trendsetting is now regarded for its lack of diversity and inclusivity. The models who walked the runway were overwhelmingly thin and conventionally beautiful, leading some to argue that the show perpetuated harmful stereotypes and created an unattainable ideal for women to aspire to. Critics also pointed out the lack of diversity in the show, with few models of different races or body types represented.
The fall of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show came as it did not adapt to the change in its consumer ideals. Victoria’s Secret models are regarded as the most beautiful and the most elite. However, the glamour, luxury, artistry, and performers made the fashion show so engaging and exciting. This cultural phenomenon did not embrace the changing ideals of society to maintain its relevancy. This year’s show will supposedly “reinforce our commitment to championing women’s voices and their unique perspectives” as stated by the company CFO. However, since the hiatus, Victoria’s Secret has had to compete with brands such as Savage x Fenty which have risen in popularity. Tune in later this year to watch the return of this event.
