The Grand Return: 7 Shocking Secrets And Iconic Moments From The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024
The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show (VSFS) made its highly anticipated, dramatic return on October 15, 2024, after a six-year hiatus, marking one of the most significant events in the fashion world this year. The show, held in New York City, was not just a revival of an iconic cultural moment but a calculated rebranding effort, dubbed the "Wings of Change." This comeback was loaded with nostalgia, featuring the return of legendary Angels, while simultaneously attempting to usher in a new era of inclusivity and body positivity that the brand desperately needed to adopt.
The 2024 event successfully captured global attention, blending the spectacle of the past—elaborate wings, A-list performers, and supermodel star power—with a new, more diverse cast. However, the question remains: Did this grand return truly deliver on its promise of a revolutionary "rebirth," or was it simply a nostalgic echo of the past? We dive deep into the most iconic moments, the shocking secrets, and the biggest names that defined the 2024 runway.
The Star-Studded Lineup: Models and Musical Guests of the 2024 Show
The success of the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show hinged on its cast, which was a powerful mix of nostalgic legends and a new generation of diverse talent. The lineup was one of the most star-studded in the show's history, featuring a staggering number of high-profile names.
The Legendary Angel Comebacks
The biggest headline was the return of the original Angels, many of whom had not walked the VS runway in years. Their presence injected a massive dose of nostalgia and excitement into the event.
- Tyra Banks: The ultimate icon of the VS runway, Banks made a triumphant return after nearly two decades, proving she still owns the catwalk.
- Adriana Lima & Alessandra Ambrosio: The two Brazilian legends, often considered the heart of the "Angel" era, walked the runway again, much to the delight of longtime fans.
- Candice Swanepoel & Behati Prinsloo: Returning to their Angel roots, their appearances were a nod to the show's mid-2010s peak.
- Doutzen Kroes & Karlie Kloss: Their unexpected return further cemented the show's emphasis on celebrating its legacy.
The New Guard of Inclusivity
In a clear effort to showcase the "Wings of Change" theme, the 2024 show featured a more diverse group of models, including those who represent different body types and backgrounds.
- Ashley Graham & Paloma Elsesser: Their inclusion represented a significant step toward body positivity, featuring models who do not fit the traditional "Angel" mold.
- Gigi Hadid & Bella Hadid: The powerhouse sisters were key figures, with Bella opening and Gigi closing the show, symbolizing the bridge between the old and new VS eras.
- Imaan Hammam, Liu Wen, & Joan Smalls: These top models of diverse ethnic backgrounds reinforced the brand’s push for global representation.
- Lila Moss: The daughter of supermodel Kate Moss, her presence highlighted the next generation of fashion royalty.
The A-List Musical Performances
The show maintained its tradition of featuring global music superstars, ensuring the energy in the Duggal Greenhouse in New York City was electric.
- Cher: The legendary pop icon delivered a show-stopping performance, bringing a timeless star power to the event.
- Lisa (BLACKPINK): The K-Pop sensation's performance was a major coup, instantly trending worldwide and appealing directly to a massive, younger, and global audience.
- Tyla: The rising star brought a fresh, vibrant, and upbeat energy to the runway.
The Shocking Secrets: What Was Missing and What Changed
While the return was spectacular, the 2024 show was defined as much by what it omitted as by what it included. These changes signal a permanent shift in the brand’s strategy, moving away from past controversies and outdated concepts.
1. The Surprising Absence of the Fantasy Bra
For decades, the diamond-encrusted Fantasy Bra was the centerpiece of the show and a massive press moment. However, in a stark departure from tradition, the 2024 show featured no Fantasy Bra. This decision was a clear move to de-emphasize the hyper-luxury, unattainable image of the past and focus on more accessible, shoppable lingerie and clothing.
2. A Focus on Shoppable Fashion, Not Just Lingerie
The outfits on the runway were notably diverse, extending beyond traditional lingerie. The collection included a range of bodycon dresses, high-waisted skirts, bralettes, and even elaborate ready-to-wear pieces. This signaled a pivot towards being a broader lifestyle brand, making the show a direct marketing vehicle for current, purchasable collections.
3. The 'Wings of Change' vs. Nostalgia Debate
The entire show was marketed on the concept of "Legacy and Rebirth," but critics noted a deep contrast between the inclusive messaging and the heavy reliance on the original, thin Angels. While the presence of Ashley Graham and Paloma Elsesser was progressive, the show's most prominent slots—like the opening and closing walks—were given to models who fit the classic VS aesthetic. This sparked debate over whether the change was genuine or merely a superficial marketing strategy.
The Legacy and Impact: Why the 2024 Show Matters
The 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was more than just a runway event; it was a cultural moment that attempted to redefine a problematic brand for a modern audience. The event demonstrated the enduring power of the Victoria's Secret name, drawing in an enormous audience, especially through its livestream on social media.
A Shift in the Angel Concept
While the classic feathered Angel wings were present and impressive, the term "Angel" itself has been recontextualized. The brand has moved away from the exclusive, unattainable "Angel" status to embrace a more inclusive definition of beauty and empowerment. The 2024 runway saw a variety of body shapes, ages, and backgrounds, suggesting that the new "Angel" is defined by confidence and individuality, not a singular, narrow ideal.
The Global Reach of K-Pop and Fashion
The inclusion of BLACKPINK's Lisa was a strategic masterstroke, instantly connecting the brand with the enormous global fandom of K-Pop. This move highlighted the show's commitment to global relevance, ensuring that the spectacle resonated far beyond the traditional Western fashion capitals.
In conclusion, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2024 successfully made its highly anticipated return, proving that the appetite for the iconic spectacle is still immense. By bringing back the biggest legends and introducing a more diverse cast, the brand attempted to reconcile its controversial past with the demands of the modern consumer. The absence of the Fantasy Bra and the focus on shoppable collections cemented a new, pragmatic direction. While the show faced scrutiny over the true depth of its "Wings of Change," it undeniably delivered a star-studded, high-energy event that has set the stage for the brand's future in the competitive world of fashion and lingerie. The question for 2025 is whether the brand will fully commit to the change or continue to lean on the nostalgia that brought it back to life.
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