Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Returns: A New Era for Lingerie and Inclusivity
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, a once-massive cultural event known for its celebrity-studded appearances and glamorous designs, is making its highly anticipated comeback in New York City tonight. Following a five-year hiatus that saw the brand grappling with controversies and declining viewership, this year’s show promises to reflect a more inclusive image.
Event Highlights and Notable Guests
The event, traditionally a major marketing vehicle for Victoria’s Secret, is set to take place in Brooklyn. It will be hosted by Tyra Banks, a veteran of the show who walked the runway nine times before retiring in 2005. Headlining the musical talent is none other than Cher, flanked by an all-female lineup that includes South African singer Tyla and Thai star Lisa. This diverse lineup underscores Victoria’s Secret’s commitment to embracing a broader representation of beauty and talent.
A Shift Towards Inclusivity
Victoria’s Secret has undergone significant changes since its last show in 2018, a period marked by criticism over its lack of body diversity and gender inclusivity. The backlash peaked when the brand’s "Perfect Body" campaign was scrutinized for perpetuating narrow beauty standards. Such controversies prompted major faces of the brand, like supermodel Karlie Kloss, to step back, citing a disconnect between the brand’s image and the message of empowerment they wished to project.
In May, Victoria’s Secret announced its plan to reboot the fashion show, signaling a commitment to a more inclusive culture. Valentina Sampaio, the brand’s first openly transgender model, is set to grace the runway alongside familiar faces like Gigi Hadid, Adriana Lima, and Ashley Graham. This adaptation reflects a broader strategy, moving away from the "Angel" archetype to a more dynamic concept known as the "VS Collective," featuring diverse figures from various backgrounds.
Broadcasting and Viewership Changes
Fans can catch the "pink carpet" event beginning at 6:30 p.m. EDT live on Prime Video and Victoria’s Secret’s social media platforms. The show officially starts at 7 p.m. EDT, demonstrating the brand’s efforts to tap into digital media platforms to possibly reclaim its lost audience. The last show in 2018 faced significant viewership declines, managing to attract just over 3 million viewers—down from its peak of nearly 12 million in 2001. With new platforms and revised strategies, Victoria’s Secret aims to reconnect with modern audiences.
Acknowledging Past Controversies
Despite the excitement surrounding the return of the fashion show, its history is tumultuous. The company faced accusations of perpetuating a culture of "misogyny" and elitism, as detailed in a 2020 New York Times investigation. The report highlighted allegations against former executives and the brand’s overall lack of female empowerment. Since then, the brand has made strides to shift its image, including last year’s pre-recorded fashion film, "Victoria’s Secret: The Tour ’23," which emphasized inclusivity and featured more diverse casting.
Moving Forward
The revival of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show marks a pivotal moment for the brand. As it seeks to navigate the changing landscape of beauty standards and audience expectations, the company’s efforts to embrace diversity and inclusivity may allow it to regain relevance in a competitive market. With a fresh perspective and an all-star lineup, tonight’s show is not just a return to form but a step towards broader representation in the fashion industry.
