The world of fashion is ever-evolving, frequently influenced by social trends and public sentiment. One of the most iconic events—the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show—has been a staple of the industry since its inception. After a five-year hiatus filled with controversy and changes in societal attitudes, the show is making a much-anticipated return. With a fresh approach and renewed dedication to representation, here’s a closer look at what the 2023 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show has in store.
The return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show after a half-decade absence marks not only a revival of its cultural significance but also a significant shift in how fashion shows are conceptualized and executed. The previous attempts to adapt to modern sensibilities, like the 2023 “Victoria’s Secret: The Tour,” didn’t quite capture the allure of the original event. The decision to revert to its classic format will appeal to long-time fans who have missed the spectacle and excitement that comes with models strutting in innovative designs and extravagant costumes.
The 2023 show promises to blend traditional elements with modern ethos, offering a runway experience that resonates with both nostalgia and current trends. Set to stream live on platforms like Amazon Live and Prime Video, this year’s show signifies a strategy to engage a broader audience—beyond just TV viewers—by leveraging social media platforms for maximum exposure.
The roster of models participating in this year’s show is like a ‘who’s who’ of the fashion world. Legendary figures such as Tyra Banks, who last walked the runway nearly two decades ago, will be gracing the stage along with contemporary icons like Gigi Hadid and Adriana Lima. The inclusion of supermodels from various backgrounds signifies an effort to portray a more diverse representation of beauty, which has long been a criticism leveled at the brand.
Newcomers, including Carla Bruni, are also bringing a fresh perspective to the runway, promising to invigorate the fashion show with their unique experiences and styles. The anticipation surrounding this diverse lineup indicates a developing narrative around inclusivity, which has become increasingly vital in the fashion industry.
Furthermore, having an all-female musical lineup is groundbreaking for the event. Cher’s involvement, alongside rising stars like Tyla and K-pop sensation Lisa, marks a conscious progression towards female empowerment within the industry. This shift not only enriches the performance aspect but also encourages the audience to celebrate femininity and collaboration amongst women.
Despite the excitement surrounding the show’s revival, it’s crucial to acknowledge the reasons behind its previous setbacks. Under scrutiny in 2019 due to declining viewership and criticism over a lack of diversity, Victoria’s Secret faced a significant re-evaluation. The connection of the company to controversial figures and the broader cultural shift towards body positivity and acceptance of diverse beauty standards forced a reconsideration of its brand image.
With new leadership and a more inclusive perspective, the company is clearly aiming to rectify past missteps. The company’s commitment to “celebrating and supporting all women” is articulated through their marketing and strategic decisions leading up to this event. It will be interesting to see how these intentions manifest in the show itself and whether they can effectively resonate with a more conscientious audience.
The 2023 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show represents a fascinating case study in how brands can evolve in response to societal demands. From adjusting their selection of models to focusing on inclusive representation and female empowerment, all signs indicate a transformative experience for both their consumers and participants.
As fans prepare for the much-anticipated event on October 15, the excitement extends beyond the runway to a broader conversation about representation, inclusivity, and the role of traditional fashion shows in a modern context. The world will be watching closely to see if Victoria’s Secret can indeed reclaim its place as a beloved fashion powerhouse while championing diversity and modern values simultaneously.