Supermodel Gigi Hadid recently shared an emotional reflection on her early career, admitting the “world was so hard on girls” during her 2015 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show debut. As she prepares for her return to the iconic runway a decade later, Hadid expressed immense pride in her personal growth and the significant strides the fashion industry has made towards inclusivity.
In a candid video shared by Victoria’s Secret, supermodel Gigi Hadid, 30, tearfully looked back at the intense scrutiny and pressure she faced at the start of her illustrious career. Her reflection came as she announced her highly anticipated return to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, a decade after her groundbreaking debut in 2015.
Hadid’s declaration that “the world is so hard on girls” resonated deeply, highlighting the persistent challenges women, particularly those in the public eye, navigate. Her emotional honesty offered a powerful moment of vulnerability, contrasting with the often polished facade of the fashion industry.
The Journey to the Victoria’s Secret Runway
Before her celebrated 2015 debut, Gigi Hadid faced multiple rejections from the prestigious Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. “I tried out two or three times before I got it, so you can imagine what I felt when I got my first show,” she recounted in the video. This perseverance underscores the dedication required to break into the elite world of modeling, even for someone who would become a household name.
Looking back at her younger self, Hadid became visibly emotional. “I’m just so happy for her. She just wanted it so bad,” she shared, adding, “I look back at pictures of that time and the world was so hard on her — and not just me, it’s hard on girls.” This sentiment reflects a broader commentary on societal expectations and the unforgiving nature of public judgment that many young women encounter.
Her first appearance with the lingerie brand in 2015 was a pivotal moment, not just for her career but also for the evolving conversation around body image in fashion. At the time, Hadid had publicly addressed the intense scrutiny she received over her body during fashion week, bravely challenging prevailing norms.
Standing Strong Against Body Shaming
Following her 2015 Victoria’s Secret debut, Gigi Hadid took to Instagram to directly confront the critics. Her powerful post became a rallying cry for body positivity and authenticity in an industry often criticized for its narrow beauty standards. She asserted her individuality and commitment to her work, refusing to conform to external pressures.
Her message was clear: she was a hard worker confident in herself, arriving at a time when the fashion industry was ready for change. She acknowledged her unique body type, which she stated “wasn’t accepted in high fashion before,” but emphasized that the industry “could never stay the same.” As reported by Us Weekly, Hadid elaborated in her post:
- “No, I don’t have the same body type as other models in shows.”
- “No, I don’t think I’m the best at any given shows.”
- “Yes, I want to have a unique walk but I also know I have to improve.”
- “No, I’m not the first or the last model of my type in this industry.”
She also boldly addressed her physical attributes: “Yes, I have boobs, I have abs, I have a butt, I have thighs, but I’m not asking for special treatment. Your mean comments don’t make me want to change my body.” This defiant stance showcased her unwavering self-assurance and refusal to let negativity dictate her career choices or self-perception.
Hadid’s powerful statement in her 2015 Instagram post highlighted a pivotal shift in the fashion world, advocating for critics to embrace, rather than resist, the undeniable change happening within the industry.
A Full-Circle Moment: Return to the Runway
A decade later, Gigi Hadid’s emotional reflection comes as she prepares to rejoin the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, scheduled for October 15, 2025. Her excitement is palpable, with the runway still making her “heart beat really fast.” She feels a deep responsibility to deliver her best for the extensive team behind the show, acknowledging its monumental effort.
Hadid has been a consistent presence in the Victoria’s Secret universe since her debut, walking in shows in 2016 and 2018, the latter alongside her sister Bella Hadid. She also made a notable appearance in the brand’s revived 2024 show, where she opened the event in a striking pink belted silk one-piece, complete with matching wings and diamond hoop earrings.
Fans have eagerly welcomed the news of her return, expressing their excitement across social media platforms. Her journey, from facing criticism to confidently returning to the global stage, symbolizes resilience and the evolving inclusivity of the fashion world. As one fan commented on the announcement, “Welcome back, Gigi!!! You deserve this 🥹💖,” echoing a widespread sentiment of admiration and support.
Her story serves as an inspiring testament to personal growth and the power of self-acceptance, illustrating how an individual can navigate intense public scrutiny while remaining true to themselves and influencing positive change within their industry.
