It wasn’t long ago that Victoria’s Secret was criticized for its lack of inclusivity and for promoting unrealistic beauty standards. Its iconic fashion shows – once headlined by stars like Rihanna in 2012, Maroon 5 in 2011, and even the Spice Girls in 2007 – were eventually cancelled amid growing backlash. After years on hiatus, the brand made its long-awaited return in 2024, determined to prove it could evolve with the times.
At 7 p.m. in New York, the lights dimmed and the long-awaited spectacle began. The runway was filled with the industry’s most striking and in-demand models: the Hadid sisters, Adriana Lima, Candice Swanepoel, Anok Yai, Irina Shayk, among many others. But it was Jasmine Tookes – pregnant with her second child – who had the honor of opening the show, reclaiming her place as one of the brand’s most beloved Angels.
A reawakening for a new era
This year’s theme, Reawakening, symbolized the company’s commitment to a more inclusive and representative vision of beauty. Since 2024, the show has featured plus-size models such as Paloma Elsesser and trans models like Alex Cosani. New faces joined the lineup too – Emily Ratajkowski made her long-awaited debut after years of speculation about her participation.
Accompanying the Angels were several major international artists. Madison Beer opened the show with a performance and laughed when recalling the call she received: “They asked if I wanted to take part – are you kidding? The fact that it was even a question blew my mind.” The American singer was followed by Karol G, the K-pop group TWICE, and rap legend Missy Elliott.
Athletes and icons take the stage
The show also made history by including professional athletes for the first time. WNBA star Angel Reese and Olympic gymnast Sunisa Lee both graced the runway, blending athleticism with glamour. One of the most emotional moments came with Bella Hadid’s surprise return, just weeks after being hospitalized for Lyme disease – her comeback drew thunderous applause.
As tradition dictates, the show closed with all the models parading together under a shower of pink confetti. Leading the front row were Gigi Hadid and Jasmine Tookes, hand in hand, alongside Adriana Lima, Bella Hadid, and Alessandra Ambrosio. For now, fans will have to wait another year to relive a spectacle quite like this one.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
