Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024: ‘Modern Heritage.’

Updated: Oct 19

After a multi-year hiatus, one of the most iconic fashion spectacles in history is making its grand comeback: the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Once considered the pinnacle of fashion events, this show captivated audiences worldwide for decades with its blend of high fashion, dazzling performances, and of course, the renowned “Angels.” But in recent years, Victoria’s Secret faced increasing scrutiny for its outdated standards of beauty and a brand image that many considered out of touch. As the show returns to the spotlight, the question on everyone’s mind is: what will the new era of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show look like?

A Shift in Brand Identity

In 2018, Victoria’s Secret’s parent company, L Brands, announced it would be canceling the annual fashion show due to falling sales and criticism about the brand’s narrow portrayal of femininity. For years, the show had been criticized for its lack of diversity and the promotion of unrealistic body standards. As a result, Victoria’s Secret began a significant rebranding effort to address these concerns, with a focus on inclusivity and empowerment.

In 2021, the brand introduced the “VS Collective,” a group of diverse women who represent a broader range of beauty standards, careers, and passions. The collective includes well-known names like supermodel Paloma Elsesser, soccer star Megan Rapinoe, and activist Priyanka Chopra. This move marked a clear departure from the brand’s previous model of exclusively showcasing ultra-thin, predominantly white models.

The question now is whether the revived fashion show will reflect this shift in values. Early indications suggest that it will, as the brand appears intent on highlighting diversity and inclusivity through casting decisions, fashion choices, and storytelling. Expect to see a broader spectrum of body types, ethnicities, and gender identities as part of the new narrative.

A Modern Take on the Spectacle

While the show may have outgrown its previous incarnation, the spectacle that made the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show famous is not going away. One of the main draws of the event was the sheer entertainment value, with its elaborate stage setups, musical performances, and iconic “wings” worn by the models. However, rather than focusing solely on the traditional “Angel” aesthetic, this revamped show will likely emphasize storytelling, cultural relevance, and emotional resonance.

Victoria’s Secret has hinted at collaborations with emerging designers, up-and-coming musical acts, and performances that highlight current social issues. This direction is likely to be embraced by a younger audience that values brands with a clear sense of purpose and connection to the world around them.

Additionally, the show is expected to be more accessible than ever, with a focus on digital platforms, streaming services, and social media, making it possible for fans across the globe to watch and engage with the show in real time.

The Role of the “Angels” in 2024

For many, the term “Angel” is synonymous with the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. However, in this new era, the role of the Angels is expected to evolve. While Victoria’s Secret has retired the traditional concept of the Angel as a uniform, almost mythical representation of beauty, there will likely still be models who embody the spirit of the Angels—graceful, confident, and unapologetically feminine. What’s different is that these women will come from a broader range of backgrounds and will not be confined to a singular image of beauty.

The show’s models will likely represent more of the “real world” in terms of body types, racial diversity, and even age. With an emphasis on empowerment, these women won’t just be displaying lingerie; they’ll be embodying strength, independence, and authenticity. The message behind the show will be as important as the fashion itself, signaling that beauty comes in many forms, and that confidence and self-love are the ultimate expressions of femininity.

What’s Next for Victoria’s Secret?

The return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show marks a pivotal moment for the brand. After years of criticism and stagnation, the company is redefining what it means to be sexy and confident in today’s world. With the rise of body positivity, gender fluidity, and a global push toward more inclusive fashion, Victoria’s Secret is positioning itself to reclaim its place in the industry—this time, with a more inclusive, authentic, and relevant approach.

As we await the show’s official return, it’s clear that Victoria’s Secret is not just aiming to put on a flashy runway show; it’s setting out to change the conversation around beauty and self-expression. Whether or not it succeeds in this transformation will depend on how well it can continue to challenge conventional standards while staying true to its core identity as a brand that celebrates femininity.

In the end, the return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is more than just a reinvention of a beloved spectacle—it’s a bold step toward reshaping how we view beauty, both on and off the runway. As we look forward to this new era, one thing is clear: the wings may be changing, but the message remains the same: confidence, empowerment, and individuality are always in fashion.