The 2017 VS Fashion Show marked a significant moment in men’s fashion, blending high-end lingerie with spectacular performances. As a leading voice in men’s style at mens-fashion.net, we dissect why this event continues to influence modern fashion trends. Discover how the show’s themes, model selection, and musical performances set a lasting benchmark in the industry.
1. What Made the 2017 VS Fashion Show Unique?
The 2017 VS Fashion Show was unique due to its location in Shanghai, China, the inclusion of diverse models, and elaborate themed segments. The show featured a blend of established VS Angels and fresh faces, set against a backdrop of cultural integration and high-energy musical performances. This combination aimed to broaden the show’s appeal and celebrate global beauty standards.
1.1. The Shanghai Spectacle
The decision to host the 2017 show in Shanghai marked a strategic move by VS to tap into the burgeoning Asian market. According to a report by Forbes in November 2017, China’s luxury market was experiencing unprecedented growth, making it an attractive destination for the brand. The Shanghai Expo Center provided a vast and modern setting, capable of accommodating the show’s elaborate sets and large audience. The integration of Chinese cultural elements, such as traditional music and dragon-themed costumes, added a local flavor that resonated with the audience.
1.2. Model Diversity and Inclusion
The 2017 show was notable for its diverse lineup of models, representing various ethnicities and backgrounds. The inclusion of models like Liu Wen, Sui He, and Ming Xi highlighted the brand’s commitment to celebrating Asian beauty. Additionally, the show featured models from Africa, South America, and Europe, reflecting a more global perspective. According to a study by the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in 2018, consumers are increasingly demanding representation and inclusivity in fashion campaigns, making the diverse casting a strategic and timely decision.
1.3. Themed Segments and Musical Performances
The show was divided into themed segments, each with its distinct aesthetic and musical accompaniment. Highlights included the “Punk Angel” segment, featuring edgy designs and high-energy performances, and the “Goddesses” segment, showcasing ethereal and romantic looks. Musical performances by Harry Styles, Miguel, and Leslie Odom Jr. added to the show’s dynamic atmosphere, attracting a broader audience beyond traditional fashion enthusiasts. The integration of music and fashion created a multi-sensory experience that enhanced the show’s overall impact.
1.4. Challenges and Controversies
Despite its successes, the 2017 show faced several challenges. Visa issues prevented some models, including Gigi Hadid, from participating, leading to last-minute lineup adjustments. The show also faced criticism for its perceived lack of body diversity, with some commentators arguing that the brand’s image of ideal beauty remained narrow and exclusionary. These controversies highlighted the ongoing debate about representation and inclusivity in the fashion industry.
2. Which Male Celebrities Attended the 2017 VS Fashion Show?
While the VS Fashion Show primarily focuses on female models and lingerie, numerous male celebrities attended the 2017 event, including singers, actors, and fashion influencers. These attendees added to the show’s star power and generated additional media buzz. Notable male celebrities at the show included:
2.1. Harry Styles
Harry Styles was one of the headline performers at the 2017 show, drawing significant attention from his fanbase. His performance added a rock-star edge to the event, attracting a younger and more diverse audience. Styles’ presence also elevated the show’s profile, generating extensive media coverage and social media buzz.
2.2. Miguel
Miguel’s smooth vocals and R&B vibe provided a contrasting musical style to Harry Styles, appealing to a different segment of the audience. His performance added a touch of sensuality and sophistication to the show, complementing the lingerie designs on display. Miguel’s presence further diversified the show’s appeal, attracting fans of contemporary R&B music.
2.3. Leslie Odom Jr.
Leslie Odom Jr., known for his role in the Broadway hit “Hamilton,” brought a touch of class and sophistication to the show. His performance added a theatrical element to the event, appealing to a more mature and cultured audience. Odom’s presence highlighted the show’s ambition to transcend traditional fashion boundaries and embrace broader artistic influences.
2.4. Other Notable Attendees
In addition to the performers, several other male celebrities attended the show as guests. These included fashion designers, actors, and social media influencers, all contributing to the show’s glamorous atmosphere. Their presence added to the event’s star power and helped to amplify its reach across different media platforms.
3. How Did the 2017 VS Fashion Show Influence Fashion Trends?
The 2017 VS Fashion Show had a significant impact on fashion trends, influencing both lingerie and broader apparel styles. The show’s designs, styling, and overall aesthetic trickled down into mainstream fashion, shaping consumer preferences and influencing designers. Key fashion trends influenced by the show include:
3.1. Lingerie as Outerwear
One of the most notable trends to emerge from the 2017 show was the concept of lingerie as outerwear. Models sported delicate lace bras, silky robes, and embellished corsets as standalone pieces, blurring the lines between innerwear and outerwear. This trend encouraged women to embrace their sensuality and incorporate lingerie elements into their everyday wardrobes. Fashion magazines like Vogue and Elle featured articles on how to style lingerie pieces for different occasions, further popularizing the trend.
3.2. Athleisure and Sporty Accents
The show also incorporated athleisure elements, blending sporty accents with lingerie designs. Models wore bomber jackets, track pants, and sneakers alongside their lingerie, creating a dynamic and youthful look. This trend reflected the growing popularity of athleisure in mainstream fashion, with consumers seeking comfortable and stylish clothing that could be worn for both workouts and everyday activities. The VS Fashion Show helped to elevate athleisure by combining it with high-end lingerie, creating a unique and aspirational aesthetic.
3.3. Embellishments and Textural Details
The 2017 show featured elaborate embellishments and textural details, adding depth and dimension to the lingerie designs. Models wore pieces adorned with feathers, sequins, beads, and lace, creating a luxurious and glamorous effect. This trend influenced broader apparel styles, with designers incorporating similar embellishments into dresses, tops, and skirts. The use of textural details added visual interest to clothing, making it more appealing and eye-catching.
3.4. Body Positivity and Inclusivity
While the VS Fashion Show has faced criticism for its lack of body diversity, the 2017 show did make some strides towards inclusivity. The inclusion of models with different body types and ethnicities reflected a growing awareness of body positivity in the fashion industry. This trend encouraged brands to embrace diversity and cater to a wider range of consumers. While the VS Fashion Show still had room for improvement in terms of body diversity, its efforts to include more diverse models helped to push the industry in a more inclusive direction.
4. Who Designed the Outfits for the 2017 VS Fashion Show?
The outfits for the 2017 VS Fashion Show were designed by the brand’s in-house design team, led by creative director Sophia Neophitou-Apostolou. The design team collaborated with various artists and artisans to create the show’s elaborate and visually stunning lingerie designs. The team’s goal was to create pieces that were both fashionable and functional, showcasing the brand’s innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship.
4.1. Sophia Neophitou-Apostolou
Sophia Neophitou-Apostolou served as the creative director for the VS Fashion Show for many years, overseeing the design and styling of the show’s outfits. She worked closely with the design team to develop the show’s themes and create pieces that reflected the brand’s aesthetic. Neophitou-Apostolou’s vision and leadership played a key role in shaping the VS Fashion Show’s visual identity and influencing fashion trends.
4.2. In-House Design Team
The VS Fashion Show’s in-house design team consisted of talented designers, stylists, and artisans who worked together to create the show’s unique and elaborate outfits. The team was responsible for developing the show’s themes, designing the lingerie pieces, and styling the models. They collaborated with various artists and artisans to create the show’s embellishments, such as feathers, sequins, and beads. The in-house design team’s creativity and expertise were essential to the VS Fashion Show’s success.
4.3. Collaborations with Artists and Artisans
The VS Fashion Show often collaborated with artists and artisans to create unique and visually stunning embellishments for the lingerie designs. These collaborations added an artistic element to the show, showcasing the brand’s commitment to creativity and innovation. Artists and artisans contributed to the show’s embellishments, such as hand-painted designs, custom-made jewelry, and elaborate headpieces. These collaborations helped to elevate the VS Fashion Show beyond a traditional runway show, transforming it into a multimedia art experience.
5. What Were the Standout Moments From the 2017 VS Fashion Show?
The 2017 VS Fashion Show was filled with memorable moments, from the elaborate lingerie designs to the high-energy musical performances. These moments captured the show’s unique blend of fashion, music, and entertainment, solidifying its place in pop culture history. Some of the standout moments from the show include:
5.1. Alessandra Ambrosio’s Farewell Walk
One of the most emotional moments of the 2017 show was Alessandra Ambrosio’s farewell walk. After 17 years with VS, Ambrosio announced that she would be retiring from the brand, making her final appearance on the runway. The audience gave Ambrosio a standing ovation as she walked, acknowledging her contributions to the brand and her status as a VS icon. Ambrosio’s farewell walk was a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the changing faces of the fashion industry.
5.2. Lais Ribeiro Wearing the Fantasy Bra
Another standout moment was Lais Ribeiro wearing the Champagne Nights Fantasy Bra. Valued at $2 million, the bra was adorned with diamonds, sapphires, and other precious stones, making it one of the show’s most extravagant pieces. Ribeiro’s grace and elegance showcased the bra’s beauty, captivating the audience and generating media buzz. The Fantasy Bra has become a symbol of the VS Fashion Show, representing the brand’s commitment to luxury and glamour.
5.3. Harry Styles’ Performance
Harry Styles’ performance was another highlight of the show. His energetic stage presence and rock-star vibe energized the audience, creating a dynamic and youthful atmosphere. Styles’ performance attracted a broader audience beyond traditional fashion enthusiasts, helping to expand the show’s reach. His presence on the runway alongside the VS Angels created a unique and memorable moment.
5.4. Ming Xi’s Fall
One of the most talked-about moments from the show was when Ming Xi tripped and fell on the runway. The model handled the situation with grace and poise, quickly getting back on her feet and continuing her walk. Her recovery was met with applause and support from the audience, highlighting the camaraderie among the models. Xi’s fall became a viral moment, generating media coverage and social media buzz.
6. How Has the VS Fashion Show Evolved Since 2017?
Since 2017, the VS Fashion Show has undergone significant changes, reflecting shifts in the fashion industry and evolving consumer preferences. The brand has faced criticism for its lack of diversity and its narrow definition of beauty, leading to a reevaluation of its values and practices. Key changes in the VS Fashion Show since 2017 include:
6.1. Cancellation of the Televised Show
In 2019, VS announced that it would be canceling the televised fashion show, citing declining ratings and criticism of its brand image. The decision marked a significant shift for the brand, which had relied on the televised show to generate buzz and drive sales. The cancellation reflected the changing media landscape and the growing importance of digital platforms for reaching consumers.
6.2. Focus on Inclusivity and Diversity
In response to criticism of its lack of diversity, VS has made efforts to embrace inclusivity and celebrate a wider range of body types and ethnicities. The brand has featured models with different body types, skin tones, and backgrounds in its campaigns and on its social media channels. While these efforts have been met with mixed reactions, they reflect the brand’s commitment to adapting to changing consumer expectations.
6.3. Emphasis on Comfort and Functionality
VS has shifted its focus from overtly sexy lingerie to more comfortable and functional designs. The brand has introduced new lines of bras and underwear that prioritize comfort and support, appealing to consumers who value practicality and ease of wear. This shift reflects a broader trend in the lingerie industry, with consumers seeking pieces that are both stylish and comfortable.
6.4. Collaboration with Diverse Designers
VS has collaborated with diverse designers to create collections that reflect a wider range of styles and perspectives. These collaborations have helped to introduce new aesthetics to the brand and appeal to a broader range of consumers. By partnering with designers from different backgrounds, VS has demonstrated its commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
7. What Were the Key Themes of the 2017 VS Fashion Show?
The 2017 VS Fashion Show explored several key themes, reflecting the brand’s aesthetic and its aspirations to appeal to a global audience. These themes included:
7.1. Global Glamour
The show celebrated global glamour, showcasing lingerie designs inspired by different cultures and regions around the world. The Shanghai location highlighted the brand’s ambition to expand into new markets and connect with consumers from diverse backgrounds. The integration of Chinese cultural elements into the show’s designs and performances added a local flavor, resonating with the audience.
7.2. Female Empowerment
The show promoted female empowerment, showcasing confident and independent women who embrace their sensuality. The models strutted down the runway with poise and confidence, embodying the brand’s message of self-love and acceptance. The show aimed to inspire women to feel comfortable and confident in their skin, regardless of their body type or background.
7.3. Fantasy and Escapism
The show offered a sense of fantasy and escapism, transporting the audience to a world of beauty and glamour. The elaborate lingerie designs, high-energy performances, and stunning visuals created a dreamlike atmosphere, captivating the audience and providing a temporary escape from reality. The show aimed to inspire viewers to dream big and embrace their inner fantasies.
7.4. Collaboration and Community
The show highlighted collaboration and community, showcasing the teamwork and creativity that went into producing the event. The models supported and celebrated each other, creating a sense of camaraderie on the runway. The show emphasized the importance of collaboration and community in achieving success, both in the fashion industry and in life.
8. How Can Men Recreate Looks Inspired by the VS Fashion Show?
While the VS Fashion Show primarily features lingerie for women, men can draw inspiration from the show’s themes and incorporate them into their own style. Men can recreate looks inspired by the VS Fashion Show by:
8.1. Incorporating Lingerie-Inspired Elements
Men can incorporate lingerie-inspired elements into their wardrobe by wearing silky robes, lace-trimmed shirts, or velvet blazers. These pieces add a touch of luxury and sensuality to their look, reflecting the show’s glamorous aesthetic. Men can pair these pieces with tailored pants or jeans for a sophisticated and stylish outfit.
8.2. Embracing Athleisure
Men can embrace athleisure by wearing bomber jackets, track pants, or sneakers with their everyday outfits. These pieces add a sporty and youthful vibe to their look, reflecting the show’s athleisure trend. Men can pair these pieces with a t-shirt or sweater for a casual and comfortable outfit.
8.3. Experimenting with Embellishments
Men can experiment with embellishments by wearing shirts or jackets adorned with sequins, beads, or embroidery. These pieces add visual interest and personality to their look, reflecting the show’s emphasis on textural details. Men can pair these pieces with simple pants or jeans to balance the look.
8.4. Accessorizing with Confidence
Men can accessorize with confidence by wearing bold jewelry, hats, or scarves that reflect their personal style. These accessories add a touch of individuality to their look, reflecting the show’s message of self-love and acceptance. Men can choose accessories that complement their outfit and express their personality.
9. Why Did VS Cancel the Fashion Show?
VS canceled the fashion show due to a combination of factors, including declining ratings, criticism of its brand image, and changing consumer preferences. The show had been a staple of pop culture for many years, but its popularity waned in recent years as viewers grew tired of its narrow definition of beauty. The brand faced criticism for its lack of diversity and its failure to embrace body positivity.
9.1. Declining Ratings
The VS Fashion Show’s ratings had been declining for several years, indicating a loss of interest among viewers. The show’s formula had become stale, and viewers were seeking more diverse and inclusive content. The declining ratings made it difficult for VS to justify the show’s high production costs.
9.2. Criticism of Brand Image
VS faced criticism for its brand image, which was seen as exclusionary and outdated. The brand’s focus on overtly sexy lingerie and its narrow definition of beauty alienated many consumers. The criticism of the brand image made it difficult for VS to attract new customers and retain existing ones.
9.3. Changing Consumer Preferences
Consumer preferences had shifted towards more comfortable and functional lingerie designs. The brand’s focus on overtly sexy lingerie no longer resonated with many consumers, who were seeking pieces that were both stylish and comfortable. The changing consumer preferences made it necessary for VS to reevaluate its product offerings and marketing strategies.
10. Will the VS Fashion Show Ever Return?
There is speculation about whether the VS Fashion Show will ever return, as the brand has been working to revamp its image and appeal to a wider audience. The show could return in a new format that is more inclusive, diverse, and relevant to contemporary consumers. The brand may choose to focus on digital platforms rather than traditional television, allowing it to reach a broader audience and experiment with new content formats.
10.1. Revamped Brand Image
VS has been working to revamp its brand image, embracing inclusivity, diversity, and body positivity. The brand has featured models with different body types, skin tones, and backgrounds in its campaigns and on its social media channels. The revamped brand image could pave the way for a new VS Fashion Show that is more reflective of contemporary values.
10.2. New Format
The VS Fashion Show could return in a new format that is more engaging and relevant to contemporary consumers. The show could incorporate interactive elements, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews with models and designers. The new format could focus on storytelling and showcasing the brand’s values, rather than simply displaying lingerie designs.
10.3. Digital Platforms
The VS Fashion Show could return on digital platforms, allowing the brand to reach a broader audience and experiment with new content formats. Digital platforms offer more flexibility and creativity than traditional television, allowing the brand to create a show that is more engaging and interactive. The brand could use digital platforms to showcase its commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and body positivity.
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FAQ: 2017 VS Fashion Show
1. What was special about the 2017 VS Fashion Show?
The 2017 show was held in Shanghai, China, featuring a diverse cast of models and musical performances by Harry Styles and Miguel, blending Eastern and Western aesthetics.
2. Who were the notable performers at the 2017 show?
Harry Styles, Miguel, and Leslie Odom Jr. provided the musical entertainment, adding to the show’s star power and appeal.
3. Which models made their final walk in 2017?
Alessandra Ambrosio made her final walk in the 2017 show, marking the end of her long and successful career with VS.
4. What were some of the controversies surrounding the 2017 show?
Visa issues prevented some models, including Gigi Hadid, from participating, and the show faced criticism for its lack of body diversity.
5. How did the 2017 show influence fashion trends?
The show influenced trends such as lingerie as outerwear, athleisure accents, and the use of elaborate embellishments and textural details.
6. Who designed the outfits for the 2017 show?
The VS‘s in-house design team, led by creative director Sophia Neophitou-Apostolou, designed the outfits, collaborating with various artists and artisans.
7. What were the key themes explored in the 2017 show?
Key themes included global glamour, female empowerment, fantasy and escapism, and collaboration and community.
8. How has the VS Fashion Show changed since 2017?
Since 2017, the show has been canceled, and VS has focused on inclusivity, diversity, comfort, and collaborations with diverse designers.
9. Why did VS cancel the fashion show?
The show was canceled due to declining ratings, criticism of its brand image, and changing consumer preferences.
10. Will the VS Fashion Show ever return?
It is possible that the show will return in a new format that is more inclusive, diverse, and relevant to contemporary consumers, potentially on digital platforms.
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