The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, once a cultural phenomenon, transformed from a modest lingerie presentation in 1995 to a global spectacle. In its early years, the show featured models in cardigans and demure bustiers, a far cry from the elaborate productions that would later define the event.
The show’s evolution involved a strategic shift towards extravagance. Organizers aimed to create a spectacle that would redefine the industry. The Victoria’s Secret runway show became the Met Ball of lingerie, showcasing elaborate costumes, world-renowned models, and over-the-top theatrics.
The transformation included the introduction of “Angels,” models adorned with enormous wings, often weighing up to 40 pounds and constructed with hundreds of thousands of feathers. These Angels, embodying a specific body type and aesthetic, became synonymous with the brand. The show’s grandeur extended beyond the runway, with models transported in a private pink jet, further solidifying their elevated status.
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show also faced criticism for its cultural appropriation, often featuring costumes and themes that drew from various cultures without proper sensitivity. Despite the controversy, the show remained a significant cultural event, generating immense media attention and even crashing servers during its first online streaming. The show’s impact extended beyond fashion, influencing beauty trends and solidifying the Victoria’s Secret brand as a dominant force in the lingerie industry.
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion show was more than just a runway show; it was a cultural phenomenon that captivated audiences with its extravagant displays of beauty, fantasy, and lingerie. While the show is no longer held, its legacy continues to influence the fashion and entertainment industries.
