Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Set To Return After 6-Year Hiatus

After a nearly six-year hiatus, the iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is making its much-anticipated return this fall. Known for its opulent stage designs, dazzling jewel-encrusted bras, and the signature angel wings, the annual runway show has been a cultural phenomenon, featuring top supermodels and performances by some of the biggest names in music.

The announcement was made on Victoria’s Secret’s Instagram, sparking excitement among fans and fashion enthusiasts. However, the exact date of the show remains under wraps. The company hinted at some changes to the format, promising to deliver the glamour and entertainment the show is known for, but with a fresh, modern twist.

“The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show will deliver precisely what our customers have been asking for – the glamour, runway, fashion, fun, wings, entertainment – all through a powerful, modern lens reflecting who we are today,” Victoria’s Secret told Reuters.

The show has a storied history of featuring some of the most famous models in the industry, including Kendal Jenner, Naomi Campbell, and Gigi Hadid. It has also hosted memorable musical performances by stars like Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, Weeknd and Justin Bieber, adding to its allure and spectacle.

In November 2019, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was cancelled amidst a storm of controversies. The brand faced significant backlash due to former corporate CEO Les Wexner’s close ties with the late Jeffrey Epstein, who had been charged with the sex trafficking of underage girls. Alongside this scandal, the company was grappling with declining sales and criticism over body image issues.

The decision to cancel the show came amidst a backdrop of declining sales, investor pressure, and criticism over the brand’s outdated image and lack of inclusivity. At that time, Victoria’s Secret acknowledged the need to evolve its marketing strategies to stay relevant in a rapidly changing market.

The troubles didn’t end there. In February 2020, a scathing report by The New York Times accused L Brands’ former chief marketing officer, Edward Razek, of fostering a “culture of misogyny, bullying, and harassment,” further tarnishing the brand’s reputation.

Following the split of L Brands into Bath & Body Works and Victoria’s Secret in 2021, the lingerie retailer has continued to face challenges, with sales declining post-spin-off. Despite these hurdles, the brand remains determined to reclaim its position in the fashion world.

Amidst these challenges, Victoria’s Secret announced a significant shift in strategy. In March 2023, during the company’s 2022 earnings call, chief financial officer Timothy Johnson disclosed plans to revamp the annual fashion show, signalling a fresh start for the beleaguered brand.

In a bid to reintroduce itself to a new generation of consumers, Victoria’s Secret released a documentary titled “Victoria’s Secret World Tour” on Amazon Prime last year. This documentary aimed to offer a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the show and the evolution of the brand.

The first-ever Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show took place at the New York City Plaza Hotel in 1995, marking the beginning of what would become an annual spectacle watched by millions around the globe. Over the years, the show has grown in scale and grandeur, becoming a highly anticipated event in the fashion calendar.

As the brand prepares to bring back the show, it faces the challenge of balancing its storied legacy with the demands of a modern, diverse audience. The upcoming show is expected to reflect this balance, showcasing the glamour and entertainment that fans love, while also embracing a more inclusive and contemporary approach.

The fashion industry and fans alike are eagerly awaiting the return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Will it manage to recapture its former glory and appeal to a new generation of viewers? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the runway is set to sparkle once again.