The 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show made an exhilarating and highly anticipated return on October 15, captivating audiences around the globe and showcasing a remarkable array of diverse models. This year's event featured renowned personalities like Gigi Hadid, Ashley Graham, and many others, marking the lingerie giant's comeback after a five-year hiatus. Held at the iconic Brooklyn Navy Yard in New York City, the show was notable for its strong emphasis on diversity and inclusivity, representing a significant and much-needed shift from previous shows that had faced widespread criticism for promoting narrow beauty standards.
Gigi Hadid, an iconic figure in the modeling world and a long-time collaborator with Victoria's Secret, opened the show in a breathtaking ensemble that featured vibrant pink lingerie adorned with oversized pink feathers and matching high-heeled straps. As she gracefully made her way down the runway, the crowd erupted in loud applause, celebrating her commanding presence. Gigi's look was not only visually stunning but also carried an emotional tribute to her close friend Taylor Swift. By replicating Swift's signature style, Gigi created a moment that resonated deeply with fans, inviting cheers and excitement from the enthusiastic audience gathered to witness the spectacle.
Earlier in the day, Gigi had hinted at her plans to channel her best friend Taylor during the show, sharing with Entertainment Tonight, “There’s something on the runway tonight that I learned from Taylor during her tour. In one of her rehearsals, she said, ‘I’m going to show you how we do this.’ I did it then, and now I'm using it tonight." This touching reference underscored the bonds of friendship and support that exist within the fashion community, making Gigi's appearance all the more special.
In a delightful surprise for fans, Bella Hadid, another stalwart of the Victoria’s Secret runway, made a thrilling late entry during the show. Bella, known for her captivating looks and poise, entered the stage towards the end of the show, dazzling the audience in a bold red bra set complemented by oversized, dramatic red wings. Her return added a layer of nostalgia to the event, reminding viewers of the iconic moments that have defined the brand's storied legacy in the fashion world.
Adriana Lima, a beloved figure and a long-time staple of the Victoria's Secret family, made a spectacular return to the runway at the age of 43. Having first walked for the brand back in 1999 at just 18 years old, her presence was both emotional and significant. During an interview with People Magazine, Lima shared her heartfelt sentiments, stating, "I'm really happy to be in the Victoria's Secret show because this is where everything started for me. My first show was in 1999 in New York City. My last show in 2018 was also in New York City, and I'm back again in New York. It’s incredible. I seriously did not think that I would be back, and it feels awesome." Her words captured the emotions of many models as they returned to a cherished platform, reminding everyone of the show’s historical significance in their careers.
The lineup also featured the triumphant return of supermodel Candice Swanepoel, who brought her signature flair to the runway, effortlessly commanding attention as she walked. The excitement reached its peak when the iconic Tyra Banks, who has long been associated with the brand, closed the show following an electrifying performance by music legend Cher. Cher's appearance not only added an extra layer of glamour to the event but also brought a nostalgic touch, as her music has been a defining part of pop culture for decades.
In a remarkable evolution from previous iterations of the show, the 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show placed a strong focus on celebrating a broader spectrum of beauty, showcasing models of various shapes, sizes, gender identities, and abilities. This commitment to inclusivity was highlighted by the debut of 36-year-old Ashley Graham, who walked the runway in an elegant all-black ensemble featuring a sophisticated lace bodysuit and a matching robe. As Ashley confidently strutted her stuff down the runway, she expressed her excitement about the representation at the show, stating, "I am feeling really excited. I’m not nervous, and everything's very secure; we're not going to have anything pop out, which makes me feel good so I can strut it, and I’m honestly more excited just for the full representation that's going to happen during the show." Her enthusiasm reflected the shift towards a more accepting and inclusive fashion landscape.
The show also marked the debut of modeling sensations Kate Moss and her daughter Lila Moss on the Victoria's Secret runway. Lila, embodying youthful exuberance, wore a stunning pink outfit with playful tassels and sparkling lingerie. Her mother, the legendary Kate Moss, 50, made a memorable entrance to the classic anthem "I Love Rock 'N Roll," receiving enthusiastic cheers from the crowd as she appeared in an elegant black outfit. Their joint appearance not only highlighted the enduring legacy of the brand but also celebrated the evolution of beauty across generations, bridging the gap between past and present.
Ahead of the event, Victoria's Secret had made a clear commitment to creating an "inclusive" environment. Their website prominently featured messaging that emphasized their focus on celebrating and supporting all women, a significant response to the criticisms the brand faced in the past regarding unrealistic body image standards set by their models. This newfound direction signaled a desire to redefine the brand's image for a contemporary audience, prioritizing representation and diversity.
The annual televised runway show was canceled in 2019 due to declining ratings and increasing backlash over its previous portrayal of women, but the 2024 return marks a fresh chapter for Victoria's Secret. The show embraced a modern ethos, reflecting the changing attitudes towards beauty and body positivity, and celebrating femininity in all its forms. With a star-studded lineup and a commitment to inclusivity, the event not only captivated audiences but also left them eagerly awaiting what the future holds for this iconic brand in the ever-evolving landscape of fashion. As the lights dimmed and the final model graced the runway, viewers were reminded that the celebration of beauty, in all its diversity, is a journey that is just beginning.
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