As flashing camera lights and echoing fans filled the room at Steiner Studios in Brooklyn, Victoria’s Secret held its annual fashion show, exceeding limitations and redefining modern fashion.
Victoria’s Secret took a new approach this year to create a never-before experience for fans. Common beauty standards and expectations of being slim and lanky were eliminated to promote inclusivity and celebrate femininity in all women, not just traditional models, according to fastcompany. In a recent interview with the fashion magazine, CEO Hillary Super explained her intent behind the new approach, saying she didn’t want anyone “defined by a single look or mood, but by something deeper: the feeling of being truly comfortable and confident in your own skin.”
The show’s new message was important to student audiences. “It’s inspiring to see a brand as big as Victoria’s Secret finally show real diversity,” said Madison Santos, junior.
Opening the show with a shiny gold-netted piece gown with ivory beads, Jasmine Tookes, who was nine months pregnant, quickly set the tone for the night. Tookes’s appearance wasn’t just appealing; it was symbolic, celebrating all stages of womanhood. “Pregnancy is such a beautiful part of womanhood, and I didn’t want to hide it,” Tookes said in an interview with Parents. Her confidence and powerful message symbolize Victoria’s Secret’s commitment to redefining its identity and embracing women’s empowerment.
Courtesy of Getty Images for Victoria’s Secret
As the runway continued, athletes, music stars, and public figures walked alongside traditional models; this marked the most diverse lineup in all of the show’s history. Angel Reese became the first athlete on the runway: “You can look beautiful in many shades, sizes, lengths, and heights, tall and short, you can be here,” Reese said, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in an interview with CNN.
Thunderbird students agreed with Reese: “It’s empowering to see women of all sizes celebrated equally,” said Alexa Rosas Santiago, junior. Fans were also enthusiastic when Missy Elliott, Karol G, Madison Beer, and the K-pop group TWICE performed hit songs, adding energy and entertainment to the show’s new approach.
Victoria’s Secret’s 2025 fashion show wasn’t just about fashion or entertainment; it was a statement that redefined fashion. The brand is sending a new message and marking a fresh beginning. Victoria’s Secret is starting to celebrate women of all backgrounds, not just those who fit traditional standards. The 2025 show not only redefined fashion but also shifted beauty standards.
