A transformed Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show unfolded in 2025, with Gigi and Bella Hadid making a highly anticipated return, embodying the brand’s revamped focus on diversity, powerful performances, and a blend of classic allure with modern representation. This marked the second consecutive year of the iconic event’s successful comeback, solidifying its place in a new era of fashion.
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show made headlines once again, not just for its signature glamour, but for its continued evolution. After a six-year hiatus, the show triumphantly returned in 2024, setting the stage for its equally impactful second year on October 15, 2025, at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. This event continued the brand’s commitment to a more inclusive vision, a significant shift from its past controversies.
Gigi and Bella Hadid: The Iconic Duo’s Grand Comeback
The centerpiece of the 2025 show was arguably the return of supermodel sisters Gigi Hadid and Bella Hadid. Both models made a significant splash, showcasing a blend of classic Victoria’s Secret sensuality with modern fashion-forward elements. Their presence underscored the brand’s ongoing efforts to appeal to a broader and more diverse audience.
Gigi Hadid graced the runway for the fifth time, opening a segment in a memorable ensemble. She appeared in a sparkling pink bustier and high-waisted undies, dramatically layered under a floor-length coat crafted from vibrant flowers. Her second appearance featured an angelic all-white look, complete with plush white wings, embodying the show’s blend of tradition and fresh perspective.
Bella Hadid, known for her powerful runway presence, made a dramatic arrival flaunting a deep tan with a blazing scarlet bra and lace thong. She accessorized with a crimson shawl draped over her forearms and sheer red stockings supported by a red lace garter. Notably, Bella debuted gorgeous golden-blond hair, a departure from her typical brunette locks, adding another layer to her stunning transformation. Her closing look was equally dazzling: a silver fringe bra and panty set paired with giant white floral angel wings.
Bella Hadid’s Journey and Resilience
Bella Hadid’s return was particularly poignant, following her step away from the spotlight for medical procedures related to chronic Lyme disease. Her comeback to such a high-profile event like the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show highlighted her resilience and strength, resonating deeply with fans worldwide who followed her health journey.
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show: A New Era of Inclusivity
The show’s return in 2024, and its continuation in 2025, marked a conscious effort by the brand to reinvent its image. After facing criticism for its lack of inclusivity, leading to its cancellation in 2019, Victoria’s Secret has undergone significant rebranding. This new era emphasizes diversity in body types, ethnicities, and ages, while still celebrating the iconic “angel wings.”
Key highlights of this renewed focus included:
- Diverse Model Lineup: The runway featured a blend of iconic supermodels and emerging talents. Veterans like Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Candice Swanepoel walked alongside fresh faces.
- Pioneering Representation: For the first time, the show included trans models such as Valentina Sampaio and Alex Consani, marking a significant advancement in LGBTQ+ representation in high fashion.
- Body Diversity: Ashley Graham, a prominent advocate for inclusive beauty and plus-size models, made a notable impact. Figures like Paloma Elsesser, recognized for her curvy figure, further championed body diversity.
- Age Inclusivity: The event also brought together iconic supermodels like Carla Bruni and Kate Moss (who made her debut alongside her daughter, Lila Moss), emphasizing age diversity on the catwalk. Tyra Banks, a legendary figure, closed the show with a powerful walk, returning after nearly two decades.
This commitment to a more inclusive image reflects a broader paradigm shift within the fashion industry, responding to market demands for greater representation. More details on the show’s evolution can be found on Harper’s Bazaar.
Spectacular Performances and Production
Beyond the fashion, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025 delivered a truly immersive experience with spectacular musical performances and cutting-edge production. The show continued its tradition of featuring an all-female lineup of artists, reinforcing its message of female empowerment.
The star-studded musical roster included:
- Legendary singer Cher, who performed some of her iconic hits like ‘Believe’ and ‘Strong Enough’.
- K-pop sensation Lisa from Blackpink, dazzling the audience with ‘Moonlit Floor’ and ‘Rockstar’.
- South African artist Tyla, performing ‘Push 2 Start’ and her Grammy-winning hit ‘Water’.
The event’s production was marked by futuristic set designs, extensive use of advanced technology, and intricate choreography, all streamed live on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, allowing a global audience to witness the spectacle. This grand return and renewed focus on diversity were also highlighted by the Evening Standard, noting the groundbreaking inclusion of trans models and the return of fashion legends.
The Future of Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show
While the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show delivered memorable moments and cemented the brand’s shift towards a more modern and conscious image, its long-term success will hinge on its continued evolution. The show is not merely a display of lingerie; it’s a statement on culture, fashion, and representation. The enthusiastic response from fans, particularly around the return of beloved figures like the Hadid sisters and the commitment to diversity, suggests a promising path forward for the iconic event.
