Following fan backlash over last year’s show, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show made a bold comeback on Oct. 15 in New York City.
The show returned in 2024 after a six-year break. After hoping for the styles presented in previous shows, fans were disappointed to see slick backs, big hoops and a low-quality set. Organizers considered the criticism, even commenting on a TikTok, “We solemnly swear to not slick back the hair.”
The 2025 edition of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show proved itself to be different. While waiting for the 7 p.m. start time, fans could watch red carpet interviews before the show began. Celebrities such as “Love Island” star Iris Kendall and “Sex and the City” actress Sarah Jessica Parker made appearances.
Dylan Sprouse, wearing an endometriosis awareness pin, came to support his wife Barbara Palvin in the show. Palvin had received surgery for this painful chronic condition earlier in the year.
On the runway, Jasmine Tookes opened the show while nine months pregnant, showing off her bump and introducing the glowing gold theme that would start the show. Tookes, along with other models of the show, is considered a “Victoria’s Secret Angel.”
As more angels walked out, fans could see the improved modern blowout hairstyle, shinier and sleeker than Victoria’s Secret’s previous attempts. Iconic angels such as Adriana Lima and Doutzen Kroes were seen rocking this same blowout.
With slick backs being the biggest critique of the previous year, fans were pleased with this change, as it brought back the bombshell look rather than embracing modern hair trends.
Performers Madison Beer, TWICE, Karol G and Missy Elliot took the stage with lively performances. Starting with Madison Beer and her song “Make You Mine,” the stage transitioned to a bright pink theme.
Accessories, such as earrings and bracelets, matched perfectly with the outfits, avoiding the overuse of big hoops — a major concern last year that many fans thought was tacky. Outfits were more varied and flattering for each angel.
Photo courtesy of @bellahadid via Instagram
Editors used innovative transitions between the performers for those watching at home as the show moved from Madison Beer to TWICE.
Victoria’s Secret presented an athletic and comfort line with nostalgic inspiration taken from the 2010s. Models wore sweatpants, jeans and hoodies while incorporating the idea of a fashion show with wings and sparkles.
Influencers like Quen Blackwell and Gabriela Moura surprised fans as they joined the stage alongside other models. Athletes Sunisa Lee and Angel Reese also appeared, making this show even more versatile with the models selected.
Fans had mixed feelings about some of these appearances, as some angels lacked modeling experience. However, Victoria’s Secret seemed set on introducing these new faces and allowing more opportunities.
Karol G performed all Spanish songs as the stage theme transitioned to evoke a feeling of sensuality. Bella Hadid appeared with new blonde hair and red lingerie after not being confirmed as a model following health troubles she has openly shared online.
Models were seen with large wings on their backs, which in previous shows have been one of the greatest appeals, as the models are described as “angels.” Typically, models of higher status are given the larger wings, but Victoria’s Secret has recently been more inclusive.
Alessandra Ambrosio modeled big, masquerade-like wings, and Alex Consani modeled red metallic wings, both suited to the theme of each line walked. From flimsy to high-quality wings, fans were quick to discuss their favorites after the show.
Victoria’s Secret had most definitely upped its budget, as proved by the wings and bright lights primarily seen during Missy Elliot’s hip-hop-like performance. One camera showed all of the models backstage, dancing along.
Concluding the show, all the models walked out together, smiling and dancing, with Missy Elliot joining them. Addressing last year’s concerns, Victoria’s Secret proved it could put on a modern show while keeping all its glamorous elements.
