On October 15, 2024, in New York City, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show returned after a six-year hiatus, and it did so in grand style. Known for blending high fashion, musical performances, and star-studded appearances, the show delivered on its promise of glamour, but this time with a fresh, modern twist. Headlined by the legendary Cher, alongside artists like Tyla and rapper Lisa, the event featured a diverse, all-female lineup of models, including Gigi Hadid, Ashley Graham, Candice Swanepoel, and Barbara Palvin.
A Reimagined Format: Embracing Inclusivity and Diversity
Victoria’s Secret made significant changes to its signature event in response to public feedback and the controversies that tarnished its reputation in previous years. This time around, the focus was on celebrating a broader definition of beauty. Models of varying sizes, ethnic backgrounds, and body types took center stage, reflecting a more inclusive, authentic vision of modern fashion. Victoria’s Secret’s traditional glamour was still there, but it was layered with a new ethos—empowerment.
The brand has been working to repair its image after years of criticism for promoting narrow and unrealistic beauty ideals. Their rebranding journey wasn’t just about swapping out models; it involved a more thoughtful reflection on inclusivity. “We listened to our customers,” said a spokesperson for the brand, “and we knew we had to change.” Gone are the days of unattainable beauty standards—this year’s show aimed to make all women feel represented, celebrated, and, most importantly, empowered.
Performances and Highlights: Cher’s Show-Stealing Performance
The night kicked off with a dynamic performance by Cher, who, at 78, proved once again that she remains a force to be reckoned with in both the music and fashion worlds. Draped in a glittering silver ensemble, Cher captivated the audience with a medley of her greatest hits, including a powerful rendition of "Believe." Victoria’s Secret described her as the “mother of fashion” in their social media posts, acknowledging her decades-long influence on both pop culture and style. Her appearance was more than just a performance—it was a statement about ageless beauty and empowerment.
Tyla and Lisa brought their own flair to the event, energizing the crowd with upbeat, genre-blending performances. Tyla’s Afro-pop rhythms provided an exhilarating contrast to Lisa’s bold hip-hop set, showcasing the diversity not just in fashion but in the music lineup as well. Their performances underscored the event’s commitment to celebrating a wide spectrum of talent and cultural influences.
Supermodel Stars and Memorable Runway Moments
The star-studded lineup featured both industry legends and rising stars. Gigi Hadid opened the show, strutting the runway in a stunning floral corset with metallic wings that drew gasps from the audience. Ashley Graham followed in a bold, body-positive statement piece—a sequined red gown paired with sculpted gold lingerie. Candice Swanepoel brought elegance with her signature fluid walk, wearing an intricate, crystal-encrusted bodysuit that sparkled under the runway lights.
One of the most memorable moments came when Barbara Palvin appeared, embodying old-Hollywood glamour in a sheer, emerald green robe that flowed behind her like a dream. Tyra Banks and Paloma Elsesser also turned heads, demonstrating that beauty comes in many forms. Tyra’s return to the runway was a particularly poignant moment, as she was one of the first supermodels to publicly challenge the industry’s narrow standards.
Each look was more than just lingerie—it was art. Designers crafted outfits that ranged from the avant-garde to the whimsical, all while keeping true to the signature high-fashion aesthetic that Victoria’s Secret is known for.
A New Era for the Brand: Inclusivity Meets Iconic Glamour
Victoria’s Secret didn’t just bring back a fashion show—it introduced a new chapter in its history, one that attempts to balance the iconic glamour the brand is known for with a modern, inclusive vision. The criticisms of the past, from lack of body diversity to outdated marketing, were met head-on in this reimagined format. This year’s show was a public commitment to celebrating women of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds.
“This is more than just a fashion show; it’s a movement,” commented Paloma Elsesser, one of the models representing plus-size women. The brand’s dedication to change was also evident in the diversity of the behind-the-scenes team, including women of color and LGBTQ+ voices in leadership roles. This wasn’t just a superficial makeover—it was a deeper transformation of the brand’s ethos.
Viewing and Streaming: Fashion for the Global Audience
For the first time, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was accessible globally in real-time. Live-streamed across platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and also available on Amazon Prime Video, the event drew millions of viewers. Fans could tune in from around the world, bringing the glamour of the runway into living rooms and phones everywhere. In New York City, a public watch party hosted at The Penn District offered live music, food trucks, and the chance to witness fashion history in a communal setting.
This multi-platform approach signals Victoria’s Secret’s understanding of the digital age and its desire to engage with a broader, more diverse audience.
Moving Beyond Controversies: Victoria’s Secret’s New Chapter
The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is not just a return to form but a reimagining of what the brand stands for. In past years, the company faced significant backlash for its lack of inclusivity and reliance on a narrow, outdated definition of beauty. This year’s event marked a clear shift—one that aims to reconcile the brand’s glamorous past with a more inclusive and progressive future.
Through its rebranding, Victoria’s Secret has started to rebuild its place in popular culture, striving to create a brand that empowers all women, not just a select few. By focusing on diverse beauty standards and making inclusivity a priority, they are making strides toward a more positive, future-facing image.
Conclusion: The Start of a New Era
In summary, the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show marks a bold new chapter for the brand. By blending its iconic fashion and musical entertainment with modern inclusivity, the event showcased a more authentic and empowering vision of beauty. Performances by legends like Cher, alongside diverse talents like Tyla and Lisa, added depth to the show’s cultural significance. The diverse lineup of models—ranging from Gigi Hadid to Ashley Graham—brought the message home: beauty comes in all forms. The event’s return symbolizes not just a fashion show, but the dawn of a new era for Victoria’s Secret—one where glamour and inclusivity go hand in hand.
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