Victoria’s Secret’s Angelic Facade: The Sexism, Harassment and Bullying Within

Consumer Boycotts Over Victoria’s Secret’s Lack of Diversity

For a brand that once sat atop the fashion world, Victoria’s Secret has found itself at the center of growing backlash over its refusal to embrace inclusivity. The brand’s long-standing commitment to its narrow definition of beauty—tall, thin, and predominantly white models—began to feel like a relic of a bygone era, especially as the world shifted toward more diverse representations of beauty.

The breaking point came when the brand’s refusal to cast plus-size models became too glaring to ignore. While other lingerie brands were increasingly showcasing a variety of body types, Victoria’s Secret stubbornly clung to its outdated ideal. This triggered the Victoria’s Secret plus-size boycott movement, spearheaded by models like Robyn Lawley. In 2018, Lawley took to social media and publicly called for a boycott of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, urging women to stop supporting a brand that blatantly ignored a significant portion of the population.

“We deserve better,” Lawley said in a fiery Instagram post that quickly gained traction. She called out the brand for its refusal to feature plus-size models, declaring that Victoria’s Secret was selling a fantasy that wasn’t for everyone—just a select few. “It’s time for women to stop feeling like they need to fit into this unrealistic standard of beauty.”

The boycott picked up steam, and many consumers began to walk away from a brand they had once idolized. Hashtags like #BoycottVictoriasSecret and #WeAreAllAngels flooded social media, with women from all walks of life sharing their experiences of feeling excluded or demeaned by the brand’s narrow vision of beauty. They demanded not only plus-size representation but also more diversity in terms of race, ethnicity, and gender identity. Women were tired of being told that only one body type deserved the spotlight.

What made the boycott even more powerful was its timing. The fashion world was already experiencing a significant shift, with brands like Savage X Fenty—founded by Rihanna—emerging as champions of inclusivity. Savage X Fenty featured models of all shapes, sizes, and skin tones, celebrating women in all their diversity. As Victoria’s Secret clung to its outdated image, consumers turned to brands like Savage X Fenty that made them feel seen and celebrated.

The impact of the boycott was clear. Victoria’s Secret saw a sharp decline in sales, and more women began to question whether the brand really represented them. The company’s failure to evolve fast enough resulted in a seismic shift in consumer loyalty. Women didn’t just want sexy lingerie anymore—they wanted inclusivity, body positivity, and empowerment. Victoria’s Secret, once the epitome of glamour and allure, was now looking painfully out of touch.

Victoria’s Secret Faces Celebrity Criticism and High-Profile Model Departures

If there’s anything that can turn the tide of public opinion faster than a boycott, it’s the exit of high-profile celebrities and models. For Victoria’s Secret, that moment came when one of its most beloved Angels, Karlie Kloss, walked away from the brand in 2015. While she initially stayed quiet about her reasons for leaving, Kloss eventually revealed that her decision was driven by a misalignment between her personal values and the image Victoria’s Secret was projecting.

“I didn’t feel that it was an image that was truly reflective of who I am and the message I want to send to young women around the world,” Kloss said in an interview. Her exit wasn’t just about leaving a lucrative contract—it was a public declaration that she no longer wanted to be associated with a brand that prioritized unrealistic beauty standards over empowerment.

Kloss wasn’t the only Angel to leave the company under a cloud of controversy. Adriana Lima, one of the longest-serving and most iconic Victoria’s Secret Angels, stunned fans when she announced her departure in 2018. Though she didn’t go into great detail, Lima hinted at feeling conflicted about the message the brand was sending. She stated on Instagram that she was no longer willing to “take off her clothes for an empty cause”—a pointed criticism of a brand that had long been criticized for objectifying women for the male gaze.

These high-profile departures sent shockwaves through the industry, and fans began to wonder—why were these models, who had once been the face of the brand, suddenly distancing themselves? The answer was becoming clearer with each passing year: Victoria’s Secret was no longer the aspirational brand it once was. The models, who had once been its greatest asset, were now questioning whether they wanted to be part of a brand that felt increasingly tone-deaf and exclusionary.

Even celebrities outside the world of modeling began to speak out. Megan Rapinoe, the outspoken soccer star and equality advocate, slammed Victoria’s Secret for its outdated approach to female beauty. In an interview, Rapinoe didn’t mince words: “Victoria’s Secret has been selling the same old tired, sexist fantasy for too long, and people are waking up. Women deserve better. We’re done being told we have to fit into one mold to be considered beautiful.”

The celebrity backlash was particularly damaging because it targeted the very foundation of Victoria’s Secret—its image as the pinnacle of beauty and desirability. If the models and celebrities who had once represented the brand were now rejecting it, what did that say about Victoria’s Secret itself?

The Cancelation of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Amid Declining Ratings

For nearly two decades, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was the ultimate pop culture event. It wasn’t just a runway—it was a spectacle, complete with lavish sets, musical performances, and, of course, the Angels. But as the years went on, what had once been must-watch television began to lose its luster. By 2018, the cracks in the foundation were becoming impossible to ignore.

Viewership of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show had been in steady decline for years, but 2018 marked a new low. Once watched by millions, the show barely managed to pull in 3.3 million viewers that year—a stark contrast to the show’s peak when it commanded nearly 10 million eyes. The reasons for this ratings drop were complex, but one thing was clear: the world had changed, and Victoria’s Secret hadn’t changed with it.

The brand’s refusal to evolve—its insistence on sticking with the same narrow vision of beauty year after year—was driving viewers away. By 2018, the idea of a fashion show filled with impossibly thin models wearing giant wings and glittering bras felt less like a celebration of beauty and more like a relic of the past. Consumers wanted to see themselves reflected in the media they consumed, and Victoria’s Secret simply wasn’t delivering.

In addition to the ratings drop, the fashion show had also become a lightning rod for controversy. From Ed Razek’s transphobic remarks to the lack of body diversity, every decision the brand made seemed to be met with backlash. Consumers were no longer willing to accept a fashion show that only catered to one type of woman—especially when brands like Savage X Fenty were showing the world that inclusivity could be just as glamorous.

By late 2019, the news that many had been expecting finally broke: Victoria’s Secret was canceling its annual fashion show. After 24 years of strutting down the runway, the Angels would no longer be gracing the stage. The official reason given was that the brand needed to “rethink” the show to reflect the changing landscape. But the truth was more obvious—the world had moved on from Victoria’s Secret.

The cancelation of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show marked the end of an era. For many, it was a symbolic moment—the final nail in the coffin of a brand that had once been the embodiment of glamour but had failed to evolve. The question on everyone’s mind was: what would come next for a company that had fallen so far from grace?

Allegations of Harassment and Bullying in the Victoria’s Secret Workplace

Behind the glitz and glamour of Victoria’s Secret, a far darker reality lurked—one filled with allegations of harassment and toxic behavior. As the brand basked in the glow of its global success, stories of workplace harassment and bullying began to emerge, tainting its image. For many years, the public only saw the polished exteriors of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, the glittering wings, and the perfectly sculpted models. But behind the scenes, the brand’s corporate culture was steeped in controversy and whispered scandals.

Several models and former employees began speaking out about the toxic corporate culture at Victoria’s Secret, describing an environment where bullying accusations were the norm, and harassment was often swept under the rug. A former employee, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed in an interview, “It was an open secret that if you didn’t look a certain way or didn’t play by the unwritten rules, you were out. It wasn’t about talent—it was about fitting into a narrow, often harmful, mold.”

These stories were not isolated incidents. Models—those celebrated as Angels—began recounting their experiences working under oppressive conditions. Some described instances where they were ridiculed or pressured to lose weight, while others reported being touched inappropriately during fittings. “It felt like a boys’ club,” said one former Victoria’s Secret Angel, who disclosed that sexual harassment and verbal bullying were rife within the company’s upper echelons.

This culture of harassment came to light particularly when Ed Razek, the powerful executive behind the brand’s marketing campaigns, was accused of inappropriate conduct. A report by The New York Times revealed shocking stories of Razek’s misconduct, including making lewd comments about models and even inappropriately touching one during a photo shoot. Although Razek vehemently denied these claims, the growing wave of accusations was too significant to ignore.

Victoria’s Secret tried to shield itself from the escalating backlash, but it was clear that these accusations of harassment were deeply embedded in the company’s culture. The once-shiny facade of the lingerie giant was cracking, exposing a much more toxic environment underneath. The fallout was inevitable, and as more voices joined the conversation, the pressure mounted on the company to take responsibility for its toxic workplace and systemic failures.

The Fall of Ed Razek and Corporate Restructuring at Victoria’s Secret

For years, Ed Razek was the mastermind behind the sexy, airbrushed image of Victoria’s Secret, controlling everything from the annual fashion shows to the branding that defined the company. He was considered a kingmaker, the one who gave the Angels their wings and shaped how the world saw women through the brand’s hyper-sexualized lens. But as the world’s understanding of beauty and inclusivity shifted, Razek’s reign became less glamorous and far more controversial.

The turning point came in 2018 when Razek’s now-infamous interview with Vogue made headlines. In a stunning display of tone-deafness, he commented that transgender and plus-size models had no place in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show because it was a “fantasy.” The backlash was immediate and brutal. Critics slammed the company for being out of touch with the world’s evolving views on gender and body inclusivity. “I don’t understand why Victoria’s Secret is holding onto this outdated image when it’s clear the world is ready for more diversity,” said one prominent fashion critic at the time.

In the wake of this controversy, Razek’s downfall was swift. After decades of holding the reins, he resigned in 2019, but the damage to Victoria’s Secret was already done. His departure signaled a significant shift within the company, which had no choice but to begin its process of corporate restructuring. The old guard was being dismantled, and with Razek gone, Victoria’s Secret embarked on a journey to revamp its public image, one that was no longer tied to the narrow, male-driven fantasy that Razek had created.

The restructuring was extensive, with Victoria’s Secret replacing its leadership team and implementing major changes at the top. In a surprising move, the company also disbanded its all-male board of directors and introduced a new board composed almost entirely of women—a clear effort to distance itself from the scandals that had plagued its former leadership. New CEO Martin Waters declared that Victoria’s Secret would undergo a fundamental shift, focusing on inclusivity, diversity, and women’s empowerment.

While these changes were undoubtedly necessary, many remained skeptical. Could Victoria’s Secret really break away from the legacy that Razek had built, a legacy that was deeply intertwined with the brand’s problematic portrayal of women? The road to redemption would be long, and the brand’s efforts to restructure after the controversy would be watched closely by both consumers and the industry.

Financial Decline and Competitor Pressure in the Lingerie Market

As the internal scandals at Victoria’s Secret continued to unravel, the brand was facing another significant problem—its financial decline. Once the unrivaled leader in the lingerie industry, Victoria’s Secret found itself struggling to keep up with an increasingly competitive market. In the late 2000s and early 2010s, the brand had been at its peak, boasting a massive global footprint and a stranglehold on the market. But as the 2010s progressed, things started to change.

A shift was taking place in the lingerie market—one that Victoria’s Secret was slow to recognize. New brands like Savage X Fenty, ThirdLove, and Aerie were gaining traction by offering what Victoria’s Secret refused to: inclusivity, body positivity, and authenticity. These brands celebrated women of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds, delivering a message of empowerment that Victoria’s Secret had never fully embraced.

Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty, in particular, was an industry disruptor. With its bold marketing, diverse cast of models, and commitment to inclusivity, Savage X Fenty captured the hearts of consumers who felt alienated by Victoria’s Secret’s old-fashioned portrayal of beauty. The success of Rihanna’s brand marked a pivotal shift in the industry, and Victoria’s Secret was struggling to compete. “We wanted something different, something real,” said a fan of Savage X Fenty. “Victoria’s Secret just felt outdated, like they were stuck in a time capsule.”

This shift in consumer sentiment wasn’t just theoretical—it was hitting Victoria’s Secret where it hurt the most: the bottom line. The brand’s sales were plummeting as more women turned to these new, inclusive brands. Reports showed that Victoria’s Secret’s financial decline was significant, with sales dropping by 10% in 2019 alone. The company’s market share was shrinking fast, and it was clear that the days of Victoria’s Secret dominating the lingerie world were over.

Amid this financial turmoil, the company was also forced to close several of its stores across the U.S. as part of cost-cutting measures. What had once been a symbol of luxury and exclusivity was now struggling to stay relevant in a world that had outgrown its ideals. As Victoria’s Secret fought to recover, it became evident that the brand’s failure to evolve with the times had opened the door for its competitors to sweep in and redefine the lingerie industry for a new generation.

The End of the “Angels” and the Rise of the VS Collective

It was the announcement that sent shockwaves through the fashion world: Victoria’s Secret was officially retiring its Angels. These supermodels, who had been the face (and body) of the brand for decades, were suddenly being replaced by something altogether different—something no one had expected. The launch of the VS Collective signaled not just the end of an era, but the dawn of a completely new identity for the brand.

For years, the Angels—with their sculpted bodies and oversized wings—had been synonymous with Victoria’s Secret. They were the epitome of the brand’s fantasy-driven marketing, selling an image of beauty that was as elusive as it was exclusive. But times had changed, and so had public perception. Critics slammed the Angels for perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards, and in the wake of controversies surrounding diversity and body positivity, the brand’s halo was beginning to tarnish.

With declining sales and a reputation on the line, Victoria’s Secret made a bold move: they were ending the Angels. Gone were the days of impossibly thin models strutting down the runway in skimpy lingerie and heavy wings. In their place came the VS Collective, a new group of women chosen not for their looks, but for their accomplishments. These women—activists, athletes, entrepreneurs—were tasked with reshaping Victoria’s Secret from the ground up, presenting a modern vision of femininity that was meant to be inclusive, empowering, and real.

Among the new faces of Victoria’s Secret were Megan Rapinoe, the outspoken soccer star and equality advocate, and Paloma Elsesser, a plus-size model known for championing body positivity. The company wanted to send a clear message: they were no longer just a lingerie brand—they were a platform for celebrating women in all their forms. “We’re redefining what it means to be sexy,” Rapinoe said in a promotional interview, speaking to the shift in the company’s philosophy.

But the transition wasn’t without its challenges. Long-time fans of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show—who had come to expect the glitz, glamour, and extravagance of the Angels—were left wondering, why did Victoria’s Secret stop the fashion show? Some accused the company of caving to pressure, while others praised the move as a long-overdue acknowledgment that the world had moved on from the narrow ideals that the brand once represented. The VS Collective was now responsible for navigating the brand through a new landscape, one that demanded authenticity over fantasy, and substance over style.

A Shift Towards Inclusivity and Body Positivity

The decision to end the Angels wasn’t just symbolic—it was the cornerstone of Victoria’s Secret’s wider rebranding efforts. For years, the company had faced criticism for its lack of diverse models and failure to embrace the growing body positivity movement. In a world where inclusivity was fast becoming the new norm, Victoria’s Secret found itself increasingly on the wrong side of the conversation.

Enter the VS Collective, a calculated attempt to rebrand the company’s image by centering diversity, empowerment, and representation. The goal was clear: Victoria’s Secret wanted to be seen as a brand for all women, not just a select few. The hiring of Valentina Sampaio, the company’s first transgender model, was a pivotal moment, signaling that the brand was ready to embrace a more inclusive definition of beauty. Her inclusion marked a dramatic shift from the company’s earlier stance, when Ed Razek infamously said that transgender models had no place in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. “It’s not about selling a fantasy anymore,” Sampaio explained in an interview. “It’s about reflecting the reality of who women are.”

The shift didn’t stop at transgender representation. Victoria’s Secret made it a point to feature models of all body types, with a particular focus on body positivity. For years, the brand’s messaging had been rooted in perfection—thin, toned, and airbrushed to oblivion. But the new Victoria’s Secret wanted to show that beauty came in all shapes and sizes. The brand even redesigned its in-store mannequins to reflect this new reality, introducing displays that featured plus-size and more realistic body types.

The changes extended beyond just visual representation. Victoria’s Secret overhauled its product lines, introducing collections that catered to a wider range of body types. No longer was the focus solely on hyper-sexy lingerie—new lines included comfortable, supportive, and functional underwear that prioritized comfort and self-expression. The shift was a direct response to growing consumer demands for products that didn’t just look good on a runway, but felt good in real life.

Yet, the transition wasn’t without its challenges. Some long-time customers expressed disappointment, feeling that the brand had lost the allure that had once made it famous. Others celebrated the changes, praising Victoria’s Secret for finally catching up to the demands of modern women. The decision to embrace inclusivity and body positivity was, without a doubt, a bold move—but would it be enough to save the brand’s tarnished reputation?

The Revival of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2024

After several years of absence, Victoria’s Secret is poised to make its grand return with the revival of its Fashion Show in 2024. For years, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was the most-watched runway event in the world, a spectacle of high fashion, celebrity performances, and over-the-top production. But by 2019, the cracks in its glossy facade were too wide to ignore. The brand had been pummeled by accusations of sexism, exclusivity, and declining relevance. Viewership had plummeted, and in a world that was increasingly embracing diversity, the show’s narrow portrayal of beauty felt out of place.

But now, Victoria’s Secret is ready for its comeback. The 2024 Fashion Show revival promises to be a far cry from its predecessors. Gone are the stereotypical Angels, and in their place is a new lineup of models that reflects the brand’s commitment to inclusivity. The runway is expected to showcase models of all body types, skin tones, and gender identities, a direct response to the criticisms that led to the show’s initial cancelation.

The brand is also rethinking the show’s format. Rather than simply relying on spectacle and sex appeal, the 2024 reimagined runway show will reportedly focus on celebrating the diverse experiences of women. The storytelling will take center stage, with each model representing more than just a pretty face—they will embody real-life stories of empowerment, success, and overcoming adversity. “We want to create something that feels meaningful and connected to the world today,” said a representative for the brand.

As Victoria’s Secret prepares for its fashion show comeback, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The world will be watching, not just to see the glamour and glitz that made the show famous, but to determine whether Victoria’s Secret can truly leave behind its controversial past. This is more than just a runway—it’s a test of whether the brand’s rebranding after controversy will stick.

Consumer Sentiment Post-Rebrand: Has Victoria’s Secret Really Changed?

In the aftermath of Victoria’s Secret’s much-publicized rebrand, the most important question on everyone’s lips is: has the brand truly transformed, or is this just another marketing ploy to win back disillusioned consumers? After all, it’s not easy to shake off decades of controversy, unrealistic beauty standards, and public backlash, especially when your once-glorious Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show became synonymous with exclusion rather than empowerment.

At first glance, it seems like the brand is making a genuine effort to change. The introduction of the VS Collective, the end of the Angels, and the inclusion of diverse body types and transgender models all point to a significant shift in direction. But how do consumers really feel about this newfound inclusivity?

“I appreciate what they’re doing now, but it still feels like too little, too late,” said one former loyal customer. “For years, Victoria’s Secret sold us this narrow idea of beauty, and now, suddenly, they’re trying to sell inclusivity? It feels like a PR move.” This sentiment echoes across social media platforms, where the brand’s attempts at reformation are met with a mix of cautious optimism and lingering skepticism. Consumers, particularly women who had been previously alienated by the brand’s exclusivity, remain divided.

Yet, some are willing to give the rebranded Victoria’s Secret a chance. “I was never a fan before, but seeing them include models who look more like me is refreshing,” said another shopper. The shift in consumer sentiment is undeniable—some are cautiously stepping back into the fold, curious to see if the changes stick, while others hold fast to their memories of a brand that once made them feel excluded.

The real challenge lies in maintaining this fragile trust. For many consumers, the new marketing strategy feels reactive—an acknowledgment that Victoria’s Secret was forced into a corner by public outcry rather than leading the charge for change. “If this had come from an authentic place years ago, maybe people would feel differently,” explained a marketing analyst, commenting on the Victoria’s Secret brand image overhaul. “But right now, the rebrand is being met with suspicion, because people see it as damage control.”

The truth is, Victoria’s Secret’s response to backlash over the Angels will need to go beyond surface-level changes. While the introduction of the VS Collective has been a powerful symbolic gesture, the brand’s long-term survival depends on proving that its newfound commitment to inclusivity and diversity is more than just a temporary fix. In a world where authenticity is valued above all, Victoria’s Secret has a lot to prove—and consumers are watching closely.

Competing in a Changing Market: Can Victoria’s Secret Keep Up?

In the early 2000s, Victoria’s Secret was untouchable—a dominant force in the lingerie market with seemingly no serious competitors in sight. Its annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was a cultural event, its Angels the epitome of sexy sophistication. Fast forward to the 2020s, and the landscape is completely different. Victoria’s Secret is no longer the only game in town, and the competition is fiercer than ever.

Brands like Savage X Fenty, ThirdLove, and Aerie have rewritten the rules of the lingerie game. These companies have embraced body positivity, inclusivity, and comfort, offering products for women of all shapes, sizes, and skin tones. Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty, in particular, has taken the world by storm. Not only does it showcase diverse models, but it also actively champions a vision of beauty that is radically different from the narrow ideals that once defined Victoria’s Secret.

“Savage X Fenty is everything Victoria’s Secret should have been,” said one industry insider. “Rihanna created a brand that speaks to all women, not just a select few.” This approach has resonated with consumers, especially younger generations who prioritize diversity and inclusivity over traditional notions of beauty. The lingerie market shift has been seismic, and Victoria’s Secret has struggled to keep up.

For years, Victoria’s Secret was slow to adapt to these changes, resting on its laurels while the world around it evolved. Now, as it scrambles to catch up, the question is whether the brand can reclaim its former glory or if it will remain a shadow of its former self. The brand’s market position, once unassailable, has become increasingly precarious.

“The problem with Victoria’s Secret is that they’re no longer setting trends—they’re following them,” said a fashion commentator. “They used to be the leaders, but now they’re just trying to play catch-up with brands that are more in tune with what consumers want today.”

The competitive market struggles are clear. Victoria’s Secret’s financial decline has been well-documented, and while the company is trying to reestablish itself, it faces an uphill battle. The brand’s traditional appeal—glamour, fantasy, and exclusivity—no longer resonates in the same way it once did. Consumers today want comfort, authenticity, and representation, and they’re finding it in other brands.

As Victoria’s Secret tries to regain its footing in this new market, its biggest challenge will be proving that it can be more than just a relic of the past. The brand will need to find ways to innovate and connect with consumers who have moved on to inclusive brands that offer a more authentic reflection of modern femininity.

The Long-Term Impact of Victoria’s Secret on Pop Culture and Fashion

Love it or hate it, Victoria’s Secret has undeniably left an indelible mark on both pop culture and the fashion industry. From the iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show to its role in shaping the public’s perception of beauty, the brand’s legacy is complex and, in many ways, controversial.

For nearly two decades, Victoria’s Secret defined what it meant to be sexy. The Angels, with their glittering wings and confident struts, became cultural symbols—representations of an idealized form of beauty that was as aspirational as it was unattainable. The brand’s impact on fashion is clear: it redefined the lingerie market, turning undergarments into high fashion and making lingerie a central part of pop culture.

But this influence came with consequences. While Victoria’s Secret may have set trends, it also set standards—ones that were impossible for most women to meet. The brand’s portrayal of beauty as something that could only be achieved through thinness, perfection, and airbrushed glamour left a lasting impact on how women saw themselves and how they believed the world saw them.

“The legacy of Victoria’s Secret is complicated,” said a cultural historian. “On one hand, it brought lingerie into the mainstream and made it fashionable. On the other, it contributed to a narrow, often harmful view of beauty that excluded most women.”

Even with its many missteps, Victoria’s Secret’s cultural legacy cannot be denied. The brand was a powerhouse that dominated the fashion world for decades, influencing everything from modeling careers to lingerie trends. Supermodels like Gisele Bündchen, Tyra Banks, and Heidi Klum became household names thanks to the brand, and the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was, for a time, one of the most anticipated events in entertainment.

Now, as the brand attempts to evolve, its long-term impact remains a subject of debate. Will Victoria’s Secret be remembered as a fashion juggernaut that helped redefine beauty, or will it be seen as a symbol of outdated ideals that were ultimately rejected by a more inclusive and diverse society?

Whatever the future holds for Victoria’s Secret, one thing is certain: its role in shaping both fashion and pop culture will be analyzed and debated for years to come. Whether the brand can successfully reinvent itself and remain relevant in this new era of inclusivity is a question that only time will answer.

Former Angels Speak Out: Karlie Kloss, Adriana Lima, and Others

Behind the bright lights and glittering wings, the reality of being a Victoria’s Secret Angel wasn’t always as glamorous as it seemed. Over the years, several of the brand’s most famous models have stepped forward to shed light on the darker side of life as an Angel. Karlie Kloss and Adriana Lima, both beloved figures on the runway, stunned fans when they walked away from Victoria’s Secret—and it wasn’t just for new career opportunities.

Kloss, who was known for her intelligence and grace, made headlines when she left the brand in 2015, later revealing that her departure was motivated by the way Victoria’s Secret portrayed women. In a bold interview, Kloss explained, “I realized I wasn’t representing the kind of woman I wanted to be or the message I wanted to send to young women.” Her words echoed sentiments felt by many who had grown disillusioned with the brand’s focus on hyper-sexualized beauty.

Then there’s Adriana Lima, one of the most iconic Angels of all time. After two decades of being the face of Victoria’s Secret, Lima shocked fans when she announced her departure in 2018. But it wasn’t her decision to leave that caught people’s attention—it was the cryptic social media post she made shortly before. “I am tired of being told what beauty should look like,” Lima wrote, a clear signal that even those within the brand were grappling with its portrayal of women.

Other models, like Gigi Hadid and Alessandra Ambrosio, have also hinted at behind-the-scenes discomfort. Conversations with industry insiders suggest that the pressures of maintaining the perfect Angel body—often at the expense of mental and physical health—were too much for many models. A former Angel, who chose to remain anonymous, described it bluntly: “It was a machine, and we were cogs. We had to look a certain way, act a certain way. It was exhausting.”

The criticism from these Victoria’s Secret Angel models only intensified as more details about the company’s internal culture came to light. Stories of restrictive diets, grueling workout regimens, and unrealistic beauty expectations began to surface, painting a picture that was far from the glamorous fantasy Victoria’s Secret had sold for decades. As more models continue to speak out, the brand’s once-iconic image is being peeled back layer by layer, revealing the cost of maintaining the “Angel” ideal.

Industry Experts Weigh In: The Fall and Rebirth of a Fashion Giant

The rise and fall of Victoria’s Secret has become one of the most discussed case studies in the fashion world, and industry experts have been quick to offer their analysis on what went wrong—and whether the brand can recover. Fashion industry experts have pointed to a combination of factors that contributed to the brand’s decline, with many arguing that Victoria’s Secret simply failed to keep up with the times.

“It’s a classic case of a brand not reading the room,” said one fashion analyst, highlighting the brand’s failure to embrace body diversity and inclusivity at a time when the rest of the industry was moving forward. “The world changed, but Victoria’s Secret didn’t. That’s why they fell behind.” This failure to adapt became particularly evident during the public relations disaster surrounding Ed Razek’s comments about transgender and plus-size models in 2018, which alienated a significant portion of the brand’s audience.

Experts also point to Victoria’s Secret’s marketing strategy as a key contributor to its downfall. For years, the brand relied on its formula of over-the-top runway shows and hyper-sexualized advertising, but by the late 2010s, this approach felt increasingly out of touch. Competitors like Savage X Fenty, led by pop icon Rihanna, were revolutionizing the industry by embracing models of all sizes, races, and gender identities. “Rihanna understood what women wanted, and Victoria’s Secret didn’t,” said a branding expert.

But can the brand make a comeback? Many in the industry believe that Victoria’s Secret’s rebranding efforts, while commendable, may not be enough to repair the damage. “They’re trying to fix decades of exclusion with a quick rebrand,” one fashion PR specialist said. “It’s going to take more than a new campaign and a few diverse faces to win back consumer trust.”

That said, there is cautious optimism among some experts who believe that Victoria’s Secret still has a shot at redemption. “If they’re willing to genuinely embrace inclusivity and leave behind the outdated ideals that once defined them, they could become relevant again,” one industry insider remarked. The real question is whether the brand can truly commit to this transformation, or if it’s just another public relations overhaul designed to save face in the short term.

Will Victoria’s Secret Ever Regain Its Former Glory?

At its height, Victoria’s Secret was more than just a lingerie brand—it was a cultural institution, synonymous with sex appeal and luxury. But now, with years of controversies and declining sales behind it, many are asking: can Victoria’s Secret ever reclaim its former glory?

The answer isn’t simple. The brand’s recent rebranding and inclusivity push is a clear attempt to win back consumers who felt alienated by its previous focus on unattainable beauty standards. With the launch of the VS Collective and a new emphasis on diverse, body-positive messaging, Victoria’s Secret is attempting to rewrite its narrative. But is it enough?

“People don’t forget easily,” said one retail analyst. “Victoria’s Secret spent decades building an empire on exclusion, and they’re going to have to work twice as hard to prove they’ve changed.” Indeed, the brand’s history of reinforcing narrow ideals of beauty is deeply embedded in the public consciousness. And while the new campaigns featuring models of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds are a step in the right direction, the brand’s future remains uncertain.

Some experts argue that Victoria’s Secret may never be able to recapture the magic of its early days—simply because the world has moved on. Consumers today are more informed and more demanding when it comes to representation and authenticity. Brands like Savage X Fenty and Aerie have set a new standard for what the lingerie industry can look like, and they’ve built strong, loyal followings by doing so.

“It’s not just about sexy lingerie anymore,” said one cultural commentator. “It’s about empowerment, confidence, and authenticity. Victoria’s Secret is trying to adapt, but they’re playing catch-up in a market that’s already been reshaped by other brands.”

The road ahead is uncertain, but one thing is clear: Victoria’s Secret is no longer the untouchable titan it once was. The brand’s future hinges on whether it can fully embrace the inclusivity and diversity that today’s consumers demand. If it succeeds, Victoria’s Secret might just write the next chapter in its story. If not, it risks fading into the background, another relic of the fashion world’s bygone era.

FAQs About Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show

1. What is the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show?

The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was an annual televised runway event created to showcase the brand’s latest lingerie collections. The show featured high-profile models known as Victoria’s Secret Angels, elaborate costumes, and musical performances by top artists. It ran from 1995 until its last broadcast in 2018.

2. Why did Victoria’s Secret cancel the Fashion Show?

The show was canceled due to declining viewership and increasing criticism over the brand’s lack of inclusivity and outdated beauty standards. Consumers and critics began to challenge the narrow representation of body types, pushing for more diversity, which the brand was slow to adopt. By 2019, the company announced it would not air the show, citing the need to “rethink” how it markets its products.

3. When is the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show expected to return?

After a hiatus that began in 2019, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is scheduled to make a comeback in 2024. The brand has promised a reimagined version of the event, focusing on inclusivity, diverse models, and a modernized format that reflects changing consumer demands.

4. Who were the Victoria’s Secret Angels?

The Victoria’s Secret Angels were the brand’s elite group of supermodels chosen to represent the company. They became global celebrities due to their appearances in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and ad campaigns. Famous Angels included Adriana Lima, Heidi Klum, Tyra Banks, Gisele Bündchen, and Alessandra Ambrosio.

5. What controversies surrounded the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show?

The show faced criticism for promoting unrealistic beauty standards, lack of body diversity, and exclusion of plus-size and transgender models. In 2018, comments by Ed Razek, former CMO of the brand’s parent company, intensified the backlash after he said that transgender and plus-size models did not belong in the show because it was a “fantasy.”

6. Who were some notable performers at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show?

The show was known for its star-studded musical performances. Artists like Rihanna, Taylor Swift, The Weeknd, Bruno Mars, and Justin Bieber performed on the runway, often singing live while models walked.

7. What is the significance of the Fantasy Bra?

The Fantasy Bra is a one-of-a-kind, gem-encrusted bra introduced during each show, worn by one select Angel. The bra has become a symbol of the brand’s luxurious image, often valued at several million dollars. Models like Gisele Bündchen, Adriana Lima, and Tyra Banks have worn the Fantasy Bra in past shows.

8. How did the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show impact popular culture?

For many years, the show was a cultural phenomenon, drawing millions of viewers worldwide and setting trends in fashion and lingerie. It launched the careers of top supermodels and contributed to shaping the perception of beauty and glamour in the 2000s and 2010s.

9. What role did inclusivity play in the downfall of the show?

The lack of inclusivity in model selection—favoring thin, predominantly white models—became a major criticism. As consumer attitudes toward body positivity and representation shifted, Victoria’s Secret struggled to adapt. Competitors like Savage X Fenty, which embraced all body types, quickly gained favor, pushing Victoria’s Secret into a brand identity crisis.

10. How did the public react to the cancellation of the Fashion Show?

The reaction was mixed. Many praised the decision to cancel the show, seeing it as overdue and necessary for the brand to rethink its outdated standards. Others, particularly long-time fans of the Angels and the runway spectacle, expressed disappointment, mourning the loss of an iconic fashion event.

11. What changes can we expect in the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show revival?

The 2024 revival is expected to be a modernized version that aligns with the brand’s efforts to rebrand itself as inclusive and empowering. The new show will likely feature a more diverse cast of models in terms of body size, race, and gender identity, moving away from the narrow ideals previously associated with the event.

12. Why were the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show ratings declining?

Viewership for the show began to decline steadily in the 2010s, falling from a peak of nearly 10 million in 2013 to just over 3 million by 2018. The main reasons for the drop included growing discontent with the show’s lack of diversity, changing consumer tastes, and competition from more inclusive lingerie brands.

13. Who are some of the models criticizing Victoria’s Secret?

Several former Victoria’s Secret Angels have spoken out about their discomfort with the brand’s portrayal of women. Karlie Kloss left the company because she felt it no longer aligned with her values, while Adriana Lima expressed that she was tired of being pressured to conform to narrow beauty standards.

14. How has Victoria’s Secret responded to the controversies surrounding the brand?

In response to years of controversy, Victoria’s Secret underwent a major rebranding, which included ending the Angels program, introducing the VS Collective (a group of diverse and accomplished women), and committing to showcasing a broader range of body types in its campaigns. The company also replaced its top executives and redesigned its marketing to reflect these changes.

15. Will the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show be televised?

Details about the broadcasting of the 2024 Fashion Show are still under wraps, but it is expected to be available across multiple platforms, including streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, where the brand has previously released content.