Victoria’s Secret is making a comeback with its fashion show after a six-year break. The event will take place on Tuesday night, marking the first full fashion show since the company canceled it in 2019.
The decision to halt the show came amid widespread criticism in the fashion industry, fueled by body positivity advocates, transgender rights activists, and the #MeToo movement, which highlighted the need for change in modeling standards.
Adding to the turmoil, former Chief Marketing Officer Ed Razek faced backlash for his controversial comments regarding inclusivity, stating that transgender individuals and plus-size women did not belong on the runway. His remarks drew significant criticism, and he eventually resigned from his position.
As the models prepare to walk the runway again, Victoria’s Secret claims to have evolved, stating that the upcoming 2024 show will embody these changes. In a recent Instagram post, the company expressed, “We’ve read the comments and heard you. The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is BACK and will reflect who we are today, plus everything you know and love—the glamour, runway, wings, musical entertainment, and more!”
Notable past models like Jasmine Tookes and Adriana Lima will return, along with plus-size model Ashley Graham. Television host and former supermodel Tyra Banks will also join the lineup, making her first appearance on the runway since 2005.
To engage a broader audience, the fashion show will be streamable on Amazon Prime Video and new media outlets including YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.
Victoria’s Secret has faced financial challenges in recent years, as competition in the mid-range lingerie market has intensified and the brand has lost appeal among younger consumers. The revival of its iconic fashion show, which once attracted 12.4 million viewers, aims to help the company regain some of its lost market share.