The Return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show
The Return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show
By Kelly Hoang — October 13, 2025
The world-renowned Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is back in full force this year, following the downsized runway show in 2024. After a five-year runway hiatus and last year’s runway return sparking mixed reactions, fans are eager to see how the brand redefines itself in 2025.
Last year’s show drew controversy when longtime Victoria’s Secret icon Adriana Lima appeared with a slicked-back hairstyle, a look that diverted from the brand’s traditionally glamorous aesthetic. This year, however, the lingerie powerhouse has “solemnly sworn” that slick-backs are out. Instead, viewers can expect big, bouncy blowouts and even bigger wings, signaling a return to the show’s signature fantasy and femininity.
Among the most anticipated appearances is the comeback of Candice Swanepoel, another brand icon. The beloved blonde bombshell first took the stage in 2007 and quickly earned her wings three years later in 2010. In 2013, Swanepoel was awarded the honor of wearing the “Royal Fantasy Bra,” a $10 million jeweled bra adorned with 4,200 precious gems. Her return is sure to bring a dose of nostalgia to the modernized runway.
Equally exciting is the anticipated appearance of Alex Consani, last year’s Model of the Year and, with her participation in the 2024 show, the first transgender woman to walk the Victoria’s Secret runway. Known for her playful humor, magnetic presence, and fearless individuality, Consani embodies the inclusive direction the brand is striving for.
Anok Yai will also grace the runway once again, bringing her commanding presence and high-fashion edge to the mix. Yai is noted as one of the most in-demand models—as well as one of the most expensive—reportedly charging anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 per runway show. She made history as the second Black model, after Naomi Campbell, to open a show for Prada. Her success as a high-fashion model with a deep skin tone from South Sudan has been a major step for representation in fashion. Her participation reinforces the show’s blend of old-school star power and contemporary representation.
This year’s event will also mark the first show under Creative Director Adam Selman, a name well known in the fashion world for his work with Savage x Fenty and his early contributions to Victoria’s Secret under Zaldy Goco—the creator of the original angel wings. Selman’s appointment as director suggests the brand’s desire for a balance between innovation and heritage, aiming to recapture the show’s magic while aligning it with modern sensibilities.
With the return of its iconic faces, as well as new talent and a fresh creative vision, Victoria’s Secret seems ready to prove that the fantasy isn’t gone—it’s simply been reimagined.
For more fashion content, keep reading at umsquaremagazine.com and follow our Instagram @um.squaremagazine and TikTok tiktok.com/@umsquaremagazine.
All images belong to their respective owners.