Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024: Gigi Hadid, Ashley Graham, and Eco-Friendly Wings
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024 marked the return of the iconic lingerie brand after a few years away from the spotlight. Fans and critics alike had high expectations, hoping for a blend of old-school glamour and modern updates. The show, featuring supermodels like Gigi Hadid, Ashley Graham, and Tyra Banks, aimed to introduce a more inclusive and eco-conscious direction. But did it live up to the hype?
The Opening: Gigi Hadid Leads, But Was the Energy Missing?
The show opened with Gigi Hadid, a star in the fashion world, but her presence on the Victoria’s Secret runway sparked debate. While Gigi looked stunning, some viewers felt the energy that defined past shows was missing. One critic remarked, “When I think of Victoria’s Secret, I think of names like Tyra Banks and Candice Swanepoel—icons who built the brand from the ground up.”
While Gigi Hadid is undoubtedly a supermodel, the expectation for the show’s big comeback was to see a veteran Victoria’s Secret Angel take the lead. This decision highlighted the shift in focus, but it left some long-time fans feeling nostalgic for the supermodels who once dominated the brand’s identity.
A Female-Led Production for a New Era
One of the significant changes in this year’s show was the fact that it was produced entirely by women. This decision was part of Victoria’s Secret’s effort to modernize its image and address past criticisms about how women were portrayed in the show. The production team promised that the 2024 edition would retain its signature glamour, wings, and musical performances, while also reflecting more inclusive and sustainable values.
A key example of this shift is the use of handmade faux feathers for the famous angel wings. In previous years, the brand used real feathers from chickens, pheasants, and ostriches. This eco-friendly change is in line with the broader industry trend toward sustainable fashion.
Plus-Size Models and Inclusivity: Ashley Graham’s Impact
One of the most talked-about aspects of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024 was the inclusion of plus-size models, particularly Ashley Graham. In the past, the brand was heavily criticized for promoting narrow beauty standards by exclusively featuring thin models. This year, Graham confidently walked the runway, making a statement about body diversity.
Ashley Graham, a mother of three, embraced her post-pregnancy curves and said, “I feel curvy, I feel sexy, and my outfit is killer.” Her presence is a reflection of Victoria’s Secret’s attempt to embrace a more body-positive image and cater to a wider audience.
The Return of Victoria’s Secret Legends: Tyra Banks and More
Long-time fans were thrilled to see the return of legendary Victoria’s Secret models like Tyra Banks and Adriana Lima. Tyra’s appearance was her first on the Victoria’s Secret runway in over 20 years. She shared her excitement on Instagram, stating, “It feels crazy to be back on the runway.” Other familiar faces included Candice Swanepoel, Barbara Palvin, and Behati Prinsloo, blending nostalgia with the brand’s new direction.
One fan commented that the show could have benefited from opening with these iconic names rather than newer models like Gigi Hadid. “These are the women who made us fall in love with the brand from the start,” they said, suggesting that a Victoria’s Secret comeback should honor the models who helped build its legacy.
A Fresh Take: New Models and Musical Performances
In addition to the legendary Angels, the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show also featured newer faces like Alex Gasani, whose debut on the runway was described as a dream come true. Gasani expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “Working with Victoria’s Secret is a dream for any model.”
The musical performances were another highlight of the show. This year, the stage featured exclusively female artists, including K-pop star Lisa, South African singer Tyla, and global icon Cher. These performances brought an exciting energy to the runway, adding a modern twist to the traditional show format.
Eco-Friendly Wings and Fashion You Can Buy
Victoria’s Secret made another major shift by ensuring that the looks from the show were available for purchaseimmediately after the event. This “see-now, buy-now” model aligns with current fashion trends, allowing fans to shop the runway in real-time.
Additionally, the use of recycled wings from past shows and faux feathers for new designs reflects the brand’s commitment to environmental responsibility. This marks a clear departure from its past practices, where extravagant costumes were often made using unsustainable materials.
Is Victoria’s Secret Ready for the Future?
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024 was a clear attempt to marry the brand’s iconic past with a more modern and inclusive future. While some viewers missed the explosive energy of previous shows, the updates—such as the inclusion of plus-size models, eco-conscious designs, and a female-led production—signal a shift toward a more thoughtful and progressive vision.
However, balancing nostalgia with innovation will be key to the brand’s success going forward. The 2024 edition brought back some of the classic elements that made Victoria’s Secret famous, while also introducing changes that reflect the evolving expectations of today’s audience.
