Dive deep into the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, a spectacular event that merged veteran supermodel power with bold debuts and emotional, history-making statements, signaling a pivotal evolution for the iconic lingerie brand.
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025 made a triumphant return on October 15th, capturing global attention with its potent blend of old-school glamour and groundbreaking, inclusive moments. Held in New York City, the event was more than just a runway presentation; it was a powerful statement on the brand’s evolving identity, showcasing both familiar faces and an exciting new generation of stars.
A Star-Studded Lineup: Returning Legends and Fresh Faces
This year’s cast was meticulously curated, featuring a dynamic mix of runway veterans who have graced the Victoria’s Secret stage for years, alongside an impressive roster of fresh talent making their highly anticipated debuts.
Among the celebrated returnees were iconic supermodels such as Adriana Lima, who first walked for the brand in 1999, and the influential sisters Gigi and Bella Hadid, who began their VS journey in 2015 and 2016, respectively. Other beloved veterans included Doutzen Kroes, Candice Swanepoel, Alessandra Ambrosio, Imaan Hammam, Lily Aldridge, Behati Prinsloo, Irina Shayk, Emily Ratajkowski, Ashley Graham, and Joan Smalls, each bringing their signature style and confidence to the runway.
The show also introduced a wave of exciting newcomers, reflecting Victoria’s Secret’s commitment to a broader representation of beauty. These fresh faces included:
- Barbie Ferreira
- Yumi Nu
- Iris Law, daughter of actors Jude Law and Sadie Frost, making her memorable debut in a sporty ensemble.
- Precious Lee
- Quen Blackwell
- Alex Consani
- Amelia Gray
- Neelam Gill
- Paloma Elsesser
- Anok Yai
- Ju Xiaowen
- Abby Champion
- Yasmin Wijnaldum
- Yoon Young Bae
- Valentina Castro
- Daniella Halfon
- Angelina Kendall
- Devyn Garcia
This diverse cast underscored the brand’s revitalized vision, aiming to resonate with a wider audience and celebrate beauty in all its forms. For more on the Hadid sisters’ return, you can read this report from Yahoo Entertainment.
History-Making Moments and Powerful Statements
Beyond the stunning lingerie and elaborate wings, the 2025 show was filled with powerful, emotional, and inclusive moments that spoke volumes about the brand’s new direction. These instances highlighted resilience, diversity, and confidence, captivating both the live audience and viewers worldwide.
One of the most talked-about moments came when WNBA star Angel Reese stepped onto the runway, becoming the first professional athlete ever to walk for Victoria’s Secret. Reese showcased two remarkable looks: a white lingerie set adorned with pink roses and a fluffy matching shawl, and a second ensemble featuring silver-and-white wings and a sparkly pink cutout top. Her appearance symbolized a significant stride towards recognizing and celebrating diverse forms of strength and femininity. Learn more about Angel Reese’s historic walk on Yahoo Entertainment.
Olympic gymnast Suni Lee also made her runway debut, appearing in a playful look from the brand’s Pink collection, further expanding the definition of who belongs on the iconic stage. Yahoo Entertainment detailed her exciting first walk.
Other poignant moments included:
- Jasmine Tookes bravely opening the show while nine months pregnant, confidently letting her baby bump take the spotlight in a striking display of confidence. Her nude lingerie, framed by intricate metal work, was a standout.
- Barbara Palvin, despite suffering a broken foot, walked the runway with immense grace and a radiant smile, proving that star power encompasses grit as much as glamour. Her husband, Dylan Sprouse, publicly praised her professionalism.
- Lila Moss, daughter of supermodel Kate Moss, delivered a chic performance in a gray long-sleeve jumpsuit from the Pink collection, accessorized with a beanie and pink heels, representing a youthful and stylish edge.
The Evolution of a Brand: Embracing Inclusivity
The 2025 show marks the second year of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show’s revival after a notable hiatus. The original runway spectacle ran continuously from 1995 to 2018 before L Brands, the parent company, decided to halt it, citing a critical need to “evolve the marketing” of the lingerie retailer. This decision came at a time when the brand was under intense scrutiny for its lack of inclusivity and its narrow portrayal of beauty standards.
After a taped special in 2023 that showcased its new collection in various global locations, the runway-and-wings spectacle officially returned in 2024. The 2025 show continued this renewed commitment, presenting a far more diverse range of faces, body types, and backgrounds. This shift reflects a conscious effort to align with contemporary values and a broader understanding of what it means to be confident and beautiful.
The careful curation of models, from seasoned Angels to trailblazing newcomers like Angel Reese and Suni Lee, illustrates Victoria’s Secret’s dedication to forging a more relevant and resonant path forward. The show effectively balanced its iconic legacy of glamour with a fresh narrative of empowerment and modern inclusivity.
Musical Performances That Elevated the Energy
Adding another layer of excitement to the star-studded event were electrifying musical performances that brought extra heat and rhythm to the runway. The lineup featured a mix of genres and global talent, ensuring there was a captivating soundtrack to every strut and pose.
The stage was graced by renowned artists including:
- Legendary rapper Missy Elliott, known for her iconic style and energetic presence.
- Pop sensation Madison Beer, delivering a standout set.
- Latin superstar Karol G, bringing her vibrant energy and powerful vocals.
- Global K-Pop phenomenon TWICE, whose performance added a dynamic, international flair to the show.
These musical acts not only entertained but also reinforced the show’s refreshed image, appealing to a diverse global audience and underscoring the universal language of fashion and music.
The Looks: Dazzling Lingerie and Dramatic Wings
As expected, the fashion itself was a spectacle of glamour and intricate design. Models donned a stunning array of lingerie sets, ranging from delicate and ethereal to bold and avant-garde. Dramatic wings, a hallmark of the Victoria’s Secret show, returned with renewed creativity, accompanying many of the memorable looks.
Highlights from the runway included:
- Gigi Hadid’s two stunning appearances, first in a pink two-piece camisole and underwear set with a dramatic pink floral cape, followed by a white one-piece with a plunging neckline and grand white angel wings.
- Bella Hadid’s silver fringed two-piece paired with large floral angel wings, and a striking red two-piece set.
- Emily Ratajkowski’s head-turning pink two-piece lingerie set, elevated by high-heeled straps and a large pink fabric structure.
- Behati Prinsloo’s elegant nude lingerie with striped designs, stockings, glittery gold heels, and a flowing gold cape.
- Candice Swanepoel’s sophisticated brown lingerie with chunky jewel necklaces and matching brown angel wings.
- Irina Shayk’s versatile displays, including a red bra with a high-slit skirt and a sheer white two-piece with a large pink feathered headpiece.
Every ensemble was designed to celebrate the body, confidence, and artistry, reinforcing the show’s reputation for visual splendor. The thoughtful integration of diverse designs and styles truly made the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show a memorable celebration of fashion and evolution.
A Deeper Look at Key Model Appearances
Adriana Lima’s Enduring Legacy
Adriana Lima, a true icon of the Victoria’s Secret runway, made yet another powerful appearance. Her presence served as a bridge between the brand’s glamorous past and its inclusive future. Known for her captivating walks and long tenure as an Angel, Lima continues to embody the aspirational spirit of Victoria’s Secret while embracing its new narrative.
Angel Reese: A New Kind of Icon
Angel Reese’s debut was arguably the most talked-about moment, signifying a monumental shift. As the first professional athlete to walk the runway, she brought an unparalleled energy and a message of strength that resonated deeply. Her confident stride and engaging presence proved that beauty and athleticism are a formidable combination, further diversifying the Victoria’s Secret narrative.
The Hadid Sisters’ Continued Dominance
Gigi Hadid and Bella Hadid, who have grown into global fashion superstars since their initial Victoria’s Secret debuts, once again commanded the runway. Their dual presence highlighted their continued relevance and status as top-tier supermodels. Each sister brought distinct looks and undeniable star power, contributing significantly to the show’s high-wattage glamour.
Iris Law: A Legacy Continues
As the daughter of renowned actors Jude Law and Sadie Frost, Iris Law arrived on the runway with a built-in pedigree, yet she carved out her own unique presence. Her debut was a testament to the new generation of models making their mark, blending a fresh perspective with the enduring allure of the fashion world.
The Future of Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025 undeniably delivered on its promise of blending old-school glamour with bold new moments. By embracing a more inclusive and diverse cast, celebrating powerful personal stories, and featuring a mix of musical talent, the brand has successfully recalibrated its image for the modern era.
This show was not just a display of lingerie; it was a testament to evolution, resilience, and the power of embracing change. Fans and fashion enthusiasts alike can look forward to future editions that continue to redefine beauty and spectacle on one of the world’s most iconic runways.
