The highly anticipated 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show witnessed a groundbreaking moment as WNBA star Angel Reese officially earned her angel wings, making history as one of the first professional athletes to grace the iconic runway. Her debut featured two show-stopping pink ensembles, captivating audiences and delivering a powerful message of confidence and aspiration that resonated deeply with fans.
The world of fashion and sports converged in spectacular style as Angel Reese, the dynamic Chicago Sky forward, made her unforgettable debut at the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Held in Brooklyn, New York, on Wednesday, October 15, the event was more than just a showcase of lingerie; it was a testament to dreams realized and boundaries broken, with Reese leading the charge as a trailblazing figure.
At just 23 years old, Reese cemented her place in history as one of the very first professional athletes to walk in the illustrious show, a monumental achievement shared with Olympic gymnast Suni Lee. The experience, as Reese eloquently put it, was like “stepping into a dream.”
A Dream Manifested: From Audience to Angel
Reese’s journey to the Victoria’s Secret runway was not just a career milestone but a personal aspiration. She previously revealed to People magazine that she had manifested this very moment, having sat in the audience of the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, completely inspired. “It’s such a surreal and full-circle moment — just last year I was in the audience manifesting being on that runway,” she shared. Her excitement was palpable when she received the news, stating, “I literally could not stop smiling!”
Her preparation for the catwalk was a testament to her athletic discipline. Reese noted that it was “not that different from training and practicing for a game,” emphasizing that “it’s all about confidence!” To perfect her stride, she even hired a modeling coach, ensuring her “signature walk” would convey both confidence and excitement, a trait she showcased effortlessly on the pink runway.
The Immaculate Pink Ensembles That Stole the Show
Angel Reese graced the catwalk in two distinct, breathtaking pink looks, each radiating her unique blend of power and femininity. Her first ensemble was an immaculate pink set, literally dripping with romantic flowers. This included a matching white bra, garter, and panties, all embellished with delicate blossoms and lace. A voluminous, fluffy pink shawl, adorned with more oversized roses, was draped elegantly over her arms, complementing her softly styled hair, nails, and makeup.
For her second appearance, Reese switched to an equally striking look, complete with bombshell silver-and-white wings. She wore a bedazzled pink tee featuring a strategic cut-out around her chest, revealing a sexy lace bra that perfectly matched her underwear. A slit above her waist added to the allure, and the ensemble was completed with elegant strappy silver sandals.
Prior to the show, Reese offered a glimpse of her journey, posting a picture in a black bra and underwear set, paired with white angel wings, declaring: “Stepping into a dream: From Angel to a Victoria Secret ANGEL. I’m finally getting my wings… it feels like destiny. ✨ Wings on, heels ready…Catch me on the runway💗.”
A New Era for Victoria’s Secret: Diversity and Empowerment
The 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show marked a triumphant return for the brand, following a six-year hiatus and a reimagining of its iconic identity. The show, streamed across YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Prime Video, embraced a more inclusive vision, featuring a diverse lineup of models and performers. Beyond Reese and Lee, other notable runway debuts included Precious Lee, Barbie Ferreira, Daiane Sodre, Iris Law, Quenlin Blackwell, and Yumi Nuis, signifying a shift towards celebrating various body types and backgrounds.
Returning angels like Candice Swanepoel, Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio (walking her 19th show), Gigi Hadid, and Ashley Graham, among others, joined the new faces, creating a powerful blend of legacy and progress. Musical performances by pop sensation Madison Beer, K-pop powerhouse Twice, and global superstar Karol G further elevated the spectacle, blending high fashion with dynamic entertainment.
Inspiring Beyond the Court and Catwalk
For Angel Reese, this historic moment extends far beyond personal achievement. As an LSU national champion and the 2023 NCAA Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, she is a powerful role model, consistently demonstrating her ability to excel both in sports and in new ventures. “I hope I can inspire women and girls everywhere and remind them that we can dominate in our field but also chase our goals outside of it,” she stated to Harper’s Bazaar.
Her impact off the court is undeniable. In just two years in the WNBA, Reese has quickly built an impressive resume, becoming the face of the brand’s Viva La Juicy perfume and the fastest women’s basketball player to release her own signature shoe, the Reebok Angel 1 sneaker. Her journey embodies the modern athlete’s ability to transcend traditional roles and inspire a broader audience, paving the way for future generations to embrace their multifaceted talents and ambitions.
