It’s astonishing to witness the return of European supermodel Doutzen Kroes to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway, an event she last graced a decade ago. Kroes, recognized as one of the brand’s quintessential Angels, made her debut in 2005. Fast forward to now, standing at 39 years old, she’s ready to reclaim her place among the fashion elite. Reflecting on her absence and subsequent return, Kroes stated, “It’s incredible. I cannot believe it’s been 10 years—I had to look it up! Where did the time go?” Time, indeed, has flown by, and it’s remarkable how much can change within a decade.
Kroes’s return is emblematic not just of personal growth, but also of the evolving standards within the fashion industry. Once dominated by a relentless pursuit of youth and perfection, this landscape is slowly shifting towards a celebration of individuality and authenticity. She candidly expressed, “I’m getting wrinkles here and there,” embracing the signs of aging and advocating for a healthier perspective towards beauty as we mature.
In an environment where superficiality often rules, Kroes stands out by advocating for self-acceptance and a broader definition of beauty. “I want to see beauty in everything,” she shared, hinting at a belief that true beauty encompasses personal evolution and self-love. This philosophy resonates deeply, especially in an industry where external appearances have historically defined success.
As Victoria’s Secret aims to modernize its offerings to better align with contemporary views, the modeling icon reflects her own transformation: “I’m a different person.” Such statements underscore the profound journey of self-discovery that many individuals—and particularly women—experience over the years. Kroes acknowledges, “I’ve learned that work is not who I am. I am not my job.” This realization emphasizes a shift in mindset that many are making: recognizing that professional achievement should not solely define one’s identity.
Kroes isn’t stepping onto the runway alone; she is joined by other legendary figures from the brand’s past, including Adriana Lima, Tyra Banks, and Candice Swanepoel. Their collective return signifies a nostalgia for a glamorous bygone era while simultaneously symbolizing progressive changes within the brand. The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show promises to be a remarkable event, airing live on October 15, 2024.
It will certainly be interesting to observe how Victoria’s Secret blends these veteran Angels with fresh faces in a contemporary setting. As the fashion world takes bold strides toward inclusion and diversity, Kroes’s return serves as a reminder that experiences and wisdom can shine just as brightly as youth and glamour—a beautiful testament to evolving standards of beauty, both on and off the runway.