Victoria’s Secret held its first fashion show two days ago after a six-year break, featuring a more diverse range of models from various nationalities, including many Black models with natural hairstyles and plus-size, trans, and older models. In 2019, the brand’s then-parent company, L Brands, announced the end of the fashion shows, which began in 1995, without specifying if or when they would return. According to CNN, the decision followed a decline in sales and viewership.
In 2018, the fashion show drew 3.3 million viewers, a 200% decrease from 2013, when it had 9.7 million.
The decline is tied to the company’s refusal to represent women of different body types, ages, and ethnicities, particularly after comments made by then-chief marketing officer Ed Razek. He used the now-outdated term “transsexual” to describe trans models and said they wouldn’t be included because “the show is a fantasy.” He made similar remarks about plus-size models, who were excluded from the show because, according to him, there was no viewer interest.
This year’s show was more inclusive in terms of age, race, and body types compared to previous years. The company had traditionally promoted a very specific image of female sexuality in the 1990s and 2000s, primarily featuring thin, white women. While some see this shift as a positive step, critics argue the company’s efforts are “insincere.” When Chief Design and Creative Officer Janie Schaffer was asked if the show was an attempt to address the negative headlines from 2019, she replied, “in short, yes.”
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