The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was one of the most watched televised events worldwide, with millions tuning in to see the glamorous Angels models walk the runway. Victoria's Secret was known for its Angels models for two decades, epitomizing beauty, grace, and elegance. However, the "Angels" models have faced criticism and backlash in recent years, leading to the brand's downfall.
Kevin Kane/ FilmMagicc. | Heodi was ranked second on Forbes' list of the "World's Top-Earning Models"
How it started
The Victoria's Secret Angels models started their journey in 1995 when the brand launched its first fashion show. The show quickly became a sensation, and the models who walked the ramp in Victoria's Secret lingerie became the most coveted in the industry. The VS Angels were not just models; they were personalities that had their signature looks, personalities, and distinctive walks that defined them differently. The most famous and recognizable Angels include Heidi Klum, Tyra Banks, Adriana Lima, and Alessandra Ambrosio.
In their prime, the Victoria's Secret Angels models were the epitome of fashion success. They represented beauty and attractiveness, which every woman aspired to possess. Their runway performances and photo shoots were glamorous, and they always looked like they enjoyed every moment. However, this image of the VS Angels slowly changed as the world evolved and people's preferences and ideas of beauty transformed.
Noam Galai/ Getty Images | The Victoria's Secret show and campaign helped turn a virtual United Nations of catwalkers
Criticisms and backlash
The Victoria's Secret brand faced severe criticism for its limited representation of body types and skin colors, which were not inclusive of a wider audience. The lack of diversity within the Victoria's Secret Angels models was seen as regressive and outdated, which caused a dramatic fall in sales and popularity. The brand had to make changes, but it refused to do so, resulting in plummeting sales and the eventual cancellation of its annual fashion shows.
Even with the brand's efforts to rebrand and adapt to modern times, the era of the Victoria's Secret Angels models has ended. The brand now focuses on inclusivity and body positivity, which is becoming a popular and necessary trend in fashion.
Ursula Camille/ Pinterest | The Angel wings can take up to 400 hours of labor
Future of Victoria's Secret
Victoria's Secret's decision to end the Victoria's Secret Angels lineup is part of the brand's effort to rebrand itself and become more inclusive. The company has recently faced increased competition from brands like Aerie and Savage X Fenty, which promote body positivity and diversity. In addition to ending the Angels lineup, Victoria's Secret hired its first transgender model. In its advertisements, it announced that it would no longer airbrush out stretch marks and other body features.
The brand's new ambassadors, the VS Collective, include a diverse group of women, including actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas, soccer star Megan Rapinoe, and model Paloma Elsesser. The VS Collective aims to represent a broader range of women and promote female empowerment. Victoria's Secret has also announced that it will focus more on comfort and inclusivity in its products, including expanding its size range and offering more options for different body types.
