The iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is set to make a triumphant return after a five-year break filled with uncertainty and reassessment. Once a staple in American pop culture, the fashion show had seen a dramatic decline in popularity, drawing scrutiny for its lack of diversity and inclusivity. However, the creators behind the beloved lingerie event are refusing to let it fade into obscurity. Instead, they have reimagined it for a contemporary audience while remaining faithful to its glamorous roots. This year’s show is not merely a nostalgia trip; it’s an invitation to witness how the brand has evolved amidst the shifting cultural landscape.
Scheduled to air live on October 15 at 7 p.m. ET, viewers can catch the excitement on Amazon Live and Prime Video, in addition to platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. The pre-show, hosted by Olivia Culpo and Tefi Pessoa, sets the stage at 6:30 p.m. ET, promising to engage fans right from the start. In a significant move towards accessibility, the entire show will also be available for re-watching on YouTube, allowing fans to relive the magic long after the curtain falls.
This year’s returning supermodel alumni further heighten the anticipation, with names like Tyra Banks, Gigi Hadid, and Adriana Lima among the roster. Their return signifies a blend of loyalty to the brand and a nod to fans who have long cherished these familiar faces. This is especially symbolic for Banks, who returns to the runway nearly two decades after her last appearance. Her presence and those of other veterans, including Doutzen Kroes and Ashley Graham, send a powerful message: the show is not just back, it is back with a purpose.
The performance lineup has turned heads as well, with Cher headlining a refreshing all-female lineup—a deviation from past shows that frequently featured male artists. Joining her are emerging talents like Tyla and K-pop sensation Lisa, marking the first time in the history of this fashion experience that the music acts are solely women. The show’s organizers understand that this is more than just a spectacle; it’s a reflection of a broader cultural movement towards female empowerment and representation.
Tyla’s exuberance about performing alongside legends showcases the excitement surrounding this pivotal change. Additionally, her comments about fulfilling childhood dreams resonate with many who have felt similarly inspired by these iconic women. This new direction not only reflects the tastes of a modern audience but also reinforces the idea that the narrative around women—be it on the runway or in the performance space—should pivot away from reductive stereotypes and embrace complexity.
The journey back to the runway has not been without challenges. In 2019, in the wake of declining viewership and significant backlash regarding body and racial diversity, Victoria’s Secret made headlines for announcing a pivotal rethink of their annual televised presentation. Criticism stemming from the association of former CEO Les Wexner with controversial figures like Jeffrey Epstein only added to the brand’s troubles.
In response to the outcry, significant changes were implemented: new leadership, a more diverse array of models, and collaborations with icons and advocates like Priyanka Chopra and Megan Rapinoe to reshape the narrative. Victoria’s Secret has stated, “We’ve read the comments and heard you,” showcasing their commitment to being more than an entertainment brand but a community that listens and evolves. The promise of inclusivity in the upcoming show underscores this commitment.
As we anticipate the return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, it serves as a reminder of the importance of evolution in fashion and entertainment. This year’s event promises not just glamour and excitement but also a broader cultural dialogue about representation and empowerment. The brand has embarked on a journey to redefine itself while honoring its rich history. In doing so, they are not just bringing back the runway but setting the stage for an inclusive celebration of women—a show that’s not just about showcasing beauty, but about celebrating it in all its forms. The world will be watching as this iconic show returns, hoping to find its place in a new era defined by diversity and authenticity.