After six years in the dark, the iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show (VSFS) is back. What used to be one of the events of the year — full of glitter, glam and angels — has made an underwhelming return. The last VSFS was in 2018, and because of controversies, lack of diversity and low ratings, the show was canceled so the company could reshape its message.
The show came back refreshed and revamped, after years of scrutiny. For the first time in VSFS history, the walkway included diverse body types, hair types and transgender models. On Tuesday, Oct. 15, Amazon live-streamed the fashion show from New York City, promising the presence of many modeling legends.
Before the show, the Empire State Building was lit bright pink in celebration. Unlike previous years, the catwalk was at floor level. This depleted the untouchable effect those on a stage get to experience, marking the first of the many disappointments the show presented. The VSFS began with a huge musical performance from Lisa. After Lisa’s high-energy performance, opening model Gigi Hadid rose from under the catwalk.
Hadid wore a gorgeous light pink lingerie set and tall, matching angel wings. As she walked confidently, she charmed the audience with smiles as her wings began to open — evoking many cheers. After she walked out, a remix of pop songs began playing — setting the rhythm for the rest of the models.
One by one, the models showed off their walks and dreamy pink lingerie. It was refreshing to see more inclusivity. Women of color were seen flaunting their lovely natural curls, and plus-size models were finally included on the Victoria’s Secret catwalk.
Victoria’s Secret legend Adriana Lima closed the segment, but despite her powerful and flirtatious walk, her look did not match her allure. She styled a slick back ponytail, stepping away from the iconic Victoria’s Secret Angel blowout, and wore a black strappy bra with plaid sleeves and matching tights. The look was underwhelming, unflattering and her wings were much smaller than expected.
Back when the brand’s fashion shows were consistent, a model earning wings was a celebratory milestone in their career, and the bigger the wings, the better. Nearly every model wore wings in the 2024 VSFS — similar to every team player earning a participation trophy with some newbies getting shinier trophies than the veterans.
Most models also lacked excitement, which is very different from what these shows used to be known for. Although some moments were admirable, this was hard to get past.
The next segment opened with a musical performance from Tyla, who gave a captivating performance. The sultry Candace Swanepoel made her VSFS return, and shortly after, influencer and model Alex Consani made her debut. Unfortunately, the best looks of the segment were the fairy-like shoes.
The third segment opened with Orianthi shredding the guitar to the classic hit, “I Love Rock ‘n Roll,” setting the mood for the plot twist of the night: Kate Moss’ cameo. She walked out in all-black lingerie, a lace cover-up and matching wings. She dominated the event with her walk and powerful gaze. Her presence caused an outbreak of cheers.
The rest of the segment did not follow this energy. The models walked out in bland black sets, showing off athletic leggings and boring lingerie. Only a few looks were saved by the beauty of the wings.
Lisa opened the fourth segment by singing “Moonlit Floor.” This segment had the best looks of the night. There were black, red and gold looks — all daring, all desirable.
Cher opened the final segment, performing her hits while the models came out in all-red looks. The models were breezing past her as she was center stage. The models’ energy was not nearly captivating enough to keep eyes on them for long, causing Cher to steal the show. Only one model saved this segment: Bella Hadid, the 2024 VSFS closer. Her walk was powerful, and her look was big and bold.
Amidst the lack of fantasy bras and the glittery, raised catwalk, the show lacked the vibrant energy it once had. Where were the flirty, bouncy walks ornamented with kisses the models would blow to the audience? There were no classic blowouts; nearly everyone wore wings and the iconic “Pink” segment was gone. Rather than using the budget to get big names on the catwalk, Victoria’s Secret should have focused on putting more life into the wardrobe, the storyline and the models’ liveliness. Although there were many admirable moments, Victoria’s Secret did not make a dazzling comeback.
