The streets of New York sparkled on Wednesday as some of the fashion world’s most glamorous stars strutted onto the pink carpet ahead of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.
After last year’s comeback, which celebrated diversity and inclusivity, this year promised a shift back to the brand’s signature sultry style under new leadership.
Madison Beer Kicks Off the Night
Pop sensation Madison Beer, 26, set the tone for the evening in a sheer black gown that revealed glimpses of the lingerie beneath.
With daring slits and a bold silhouette, she embodied the “unapologetically sexy” vibe that Victoria’s Secret is now embracing once again.
A Star-Studded Lineup on the Carpet
Hollywood’s elite made their presence felt: Jodie Turner-Smith, 39, stunned in a frilly white mini dress with a plunging neckline, while Rainey Qualley, 36, showed off her legs in a delicate lace number.
Whitney Port, 40, looked effortlessly chic in a black dress with side cutouts, and Isan Elba, 23, turned heads in a lace-up mini that flaunted her toned legs.
Other attendees included Sarah Jessica Parker, 60, in a sophisticated black ensemble, Jordyn Woods, 28, in a cheetah print puffer, and Tessa Brooks, 26, in a plunging black dress.
Male stars also made an appearance, with Patrick Schwarzenegger, 32, rocking an all-black look with a silver chain accent.
Karen Gillan, 37, opted for sheer black elegance that highlighted her classic lingerie.
Returning Angels and New Faces
The runway will feature a mix of legendary Victoria’s Secret Angels like Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Candice Swanepoel, Behati Prinsloo, Lily Aldridge, and Taylor Hill.
Other returning models include Gigi Hadid, Joan Smalls, Irina Shayk, Ashley Graham, and Anok Yai.
Fresh faces are also joining the catwalk, from WNBA star Angel Reese and influencer Quenlin Blackwell to plus-size models Yumi Nu and Precious Lee, actress Barbie Ferreira, and rising star Iris Law.
This blend of seasoned and new talent aims to bring a fresh energy while honoring the iconic glamour the show is known for.
Star-Studded Performances
Music has always been a key highlight of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.
Past performers have included Rihanna, Justin Bieber, and Cher.
This year, the lineup includes Missy Elliott, Karol G, K-Pop sensation TWICE, and Madison Beer herself, ensuring a night filled with high-energy performances.
A Legacy of Fashion Drama
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show first debuted in 1995 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon, with millions tuning in every year to see the world’s top models and headline performers.
But after decades of dominance, the show was canceled in 2019 amid criticism over the brand’s lack of diversity and controversial comments from former executives about trans and plus-size models.
Reclaiming Its Iconic Style
Following the 2019 cancellation, Victoria’s Secret tried to reinvent itself with a more inclusive approach.
Last year’s return highlighted plus-size and transgender models, but some critics felt the traditional glamour had been lost.
Now, under CEO Hillary Super, 53, the brand is embracing its classic bombshell appeal while still celebrating a diverse range of models.
Super acknowledged that previous leadership had allowed the brand to become “watered down,” with decisions driven more by fear of backlash than vision.
The company had shifted toward comfort-focused products and less provocative designs, moving away from its signature seductive lingerie.
Controversies and Corporate Challenges
Victoria’s Secret has had its share of controversies. Former executives were accused of fostering a toxic work environment, and allegations of harassment were reported by former employees.
While Ed Razek, the former CMO, denied these claims, the company faced intense scrutiny over its corporate culture and the quality and diversity of its products.
The return of the VS Fashion Show in 2024 marked an attempt to repair the brand’s image, featuring a more diverse lineup of models and first-time transgender stars like Valentina Sampaio.
Despite these efforts, critics noted that the show lacked some of the high-glamour appeal for which it was once famous.
Victoria’s Secret Looks Forward
With this year’s show, Victoria’s Secret is clearly signaling that it wants to honor its roots while balancing modern inclusivity.
The mix of legendary Angels, fresh faces, and a bold musical lineup promises an unforgettable night that reminds the world why the brand once dominated the runway.