Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is set to make a grand return in 2024, inviting fans to relive the glamour and excitement of this iconic event. The announcement came in May via the brand's official Instagram page, exciting followers with promises of a fresh yet familiar spectacle complete with the mesmerizing runway walks, extravagant angel wings, and captivating musical performances. The grand comeback aims to celebrate the brand's evolution, aligning with contemporary values while retaining its traditional allure.
Historically, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which ran from 1995 to 2018, was more than just a showcase of lingerie; it was a cultural phenomenon. Supermodels like Gisele Bündchen, Karlie Kloss, and Naomi Campbell graced the runway, often accompanied by musical giants such as Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber, drawing millions of viewers annually. The pinnacle of its success came in the early 2000s, with 2001 marking a viewership peak at over 12 million. However, interest began to wane, and by 2018, viewership had fallen to historical lows.
In November 2019, CFO Stuart Burgdoerfer announced the show's cancellation, a decision due to dwindling ratings and heightened controversies. Criticisms were levied against former chief marketing officer Ed Razek, whose controversial remarks in 2018 sparked widespread backlash. Razek's comments about transgender and plus-size inclusion were seen as reflective of outdated brand values. These issues were magnified by scandals surrounding L Brands' CEO Les Wexner, linked through associations with Jeffery Epstein.
Bouncing back from these challenges, Victoria's Secret has made strides towards a more inclusive future, as seen in recent campaigns. The return of the fashion show in 2024 signifies not just a revival, but a reimagining. This year, iconic names such as Tyra Banks will host the event, bringing her expertise and charisma back to the runway. Beloved models like Gigi Hadid and Ashley Graham, alongside fresh faces, will also feature, showcasing the brand's new commitment to diversity.
Adding to the event's excitement is an all-female musical lineup, featuring legends like Cher. This empowering move aligns with the show's overarching celebration of womanhood and fashion. The spectacle will debut at Victoria's Secret's flagship New York City store on October 15th, with Pink Carpet coverage hosted by Olivia Culpo and Tefi Pessoa kicking off the evening at 6:30 p.m. ET. The show promises to be accessible to a wide audience, available for live viewing on Amazon Prime Video and Amazon Live, with additional streaming on the brand's social media platforms, offering fans multiple ways to engage with this revitalized fashion extravaganza.