After years away and a crucial re-evaluation, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show makes its grand return to the runway in both 2024 and 2025. Explore the evolution of this fashion spectacle, featuring returning Angels, fresh faces like Angel Reese and Barbie Ferreira, and a diverse lineup of performers, all streaming live.
For over two decades, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was a global phenomenon, synonymous with dazzling wings, superstar models, and electrifying musical performances. However, in 2019, the annual extravaganza faced a dramatic curtain call, leaving fans wondering if the runway would ever return. Now, after a significant hiatus and a profound re-evaluation, the show is not just back—it’s reinvented, promising “everything you loved about the show, but even better.”
The End of an Era: Why the Wings Were Grounded
The decision to cancel the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2019 marked the end of an era that began in 1995. The reasons behind the hiatus were multifaceted, reflecting a shift in cultural values and growing criticism of the brand’s traditional image. Viewership had been steadily declining, with 3.3 million tuning in for the 2018 show, a sharp drop from 9.7 million in 2013 and 6.6 million in 2016, as noted by Business Insider.
Beyond ratings, the show faced intense scrutiny for its perceived lack of inclusivity. Criticism targeted former CMO Ed Razek’s controversial remarks, where he stated that transgender and plus-size models didn’t need to be included because the show was a “fantasy.” This stance clashed sharply with the broader industry’s move towards body positivity and diverse representation.
The brand, owned by L Brands, acknowledged the need to evolve. CEO Stu Burdoerfer stated, “We think it’s important to evolve the messaging of Victoria’s Secret,” promising new forms of customer communication. This period saw competitors like Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty fashion show gaining traction by embracing a more diverse and inclusive approach, highlighting the dated perception of the VSFS.
A New Chapter: The 2023 World Tour and the 2024 Runway Revival
The journey back to the runway began with experimental formats. In 2023, Victoria’s Secret launched the “Victoria’s Secret World Tour,” a documentary-style feature film uniting fashion, film, art, and culture. This creative approach set the stage for a full-fledged return of the live runway show.
The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show: A Star-Studded Return
The highly anticipated live fashion show officially returned in 2024, promising to reflect “who we are today, plus everything you know and love — the glamour, runway, wings, musical entertainment, and more!” This comeback featured a new campaign with some of the brand’s brightest stars, including:
- Tyra Banks
- Candice Swanepoel
- Imaan Hammam
- Grace Elizabeth
- Devyn Garcia
These models showcased a limited-edition collection of cast and crew merchandise, captured by photographer Angelo Pennetta and styled by Emmanuelle Alt. The 2024 show aired on October 15th at 7 pm ET, live from New York City, and featured headlining performances by pop icon Cher, along with Lisa and Tyla. Iconic figures such as Gigi Hadid, Adriana Lima, and Lily Aldridge were also part of the 2024 runway, as highlighted by Us Weekly, signaling a blend of nostalgia and fresh energy.
The Grand Spectacle Continues: What to Expect from the 2025 Show
Building on the success of its 2024 return, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is set to take flight again in 2025. This highly anticipated event promises another unforgettable night, showcasing the brand’s continued evolution.
The 2025 show will feature a star-studded lineup of supermodels, combining beloved veterans with exciting new talent. Confirmed to strut down the iconic catwalk with their ethereal wings are:
- Gigi Hadid
- Candice Swanepoel
- Ashley Graham
- Adriana Lima
- Lily Aldridge
- Joan Smalls
The brand is also making strides in its commitment to inclusivity by introducing a diverse array of new faces, many of whom are making history. According to Us Weekly, these trailblazing models include:
- Angel Reese: The first professional athlete to walk in the show.
- Barbie Ferreira: The Euphoria actress making her highly anticipated debut, who shared it was “a pinch me moment” and she was “truly gagged” by her look.
- Yumi Nu
- Precious Lee
- Iris Law
- Daiane Sodre
- Quen Blackwell
The 2025 spectacle is scheduled for Wednesday, October 15th, at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, broadcast live from Brooklyn’s Steiner Studios in New York.
Red Carpet Buzz and Headlining Performances
Adding to the excitement, a pink carpet pre-show will kick off at 6:30 p.m. ET, hosted by celebrity stylist Law Roach and fashion journalist Zanna Rassi. This provides an exclusive look at the arrivals and backstage buzz leading up to the main event.
The musical lineup for 2025 features an all-woman roster of A-list performers, ready to energize the runway:
- Missy Elliott
- Karol G
- Madison Beer
- K-pop group TWICE
Embracing the Future: Inclusivity and Brand Evolution
The return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is more than just a revival of a popular event; it’s a statement of evolution. The brand has explicitly stated its intention to address past criticisms regarding its lack of inclusivity and body positivity. The inclusion of diverse models, backgrounds, and body types, such as Ashley Graham and Angel Reese, signifies a deliberate effort to create a more representative “fantasy” for a modern audience.
This transformation is about reflecting a contemporary understanding of beauty and sensuality, moving beyond an “outdated kind of sex appeal” that was once criticized for catering primarily to men. The brand’s new messaging emphasizes self-love, confidence, and empowering women through varied forms of expression.
How to Watch the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Live
For fashion enthusiasts eager to witness the reborn runway, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show offers multiple viewing options:
- Live Streams: Tune in via the official @VictoriasSecret social channels on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
- Streaming Platforms: The show will also be available to stream live through Prime Video and the Amazon Live channel. Amazon customers in the U.S. can watch via Amazon Live for free.
The pink carpet pre-show, hosted by Law Roach and Zanna Rassi, can also be accessed via Prime Video, Amazon Live, and Victoria’s Secret’s social channels starting at 6:30 p.m. ET.
Behind the Scenes: Merchandise and Creative Vision
Beyond the runway, Victoria’s Secret has also introduced limited-edition merchandise associated with the show, offering fans a piece of the glamour. This collection, worn by the cast and crew, includes casual sweatshirts, zip-up jackets, and comfortable t-shirts, effortlessly blending relaxed style with the brand’s signature allure.
The meticulous styling by industry veterans like Emmanuelle Alt, combined with dazzling earrings and high heels, underscores the brand’s commitment to delivering polished, glamorous looks. This renewed attention to every detail, from the selection of models to the creative direction, signals a vibrant future for one of fashion’s most iconic spectacles.
