Wings, Glamour, and Global Beats: The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025 Takes Flight

October 17, 2025

After a triumphant return in 2024, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show soared back to the spotlight on October 15, 2025, at the iconic Brooklyn Navy Yard in New York City. What began as a lingerie showcase in the 1990s has evolved into a cultural phenomenon blending high fashion, star power, and unapologetic sensuality. This year’s edition—streamed live on Amazon Prime Video, Victoria’s Secret’s social channels, and broadcast across platforms—drew over 10 million viewers worldwide, proving the show’s enduring allure amid a more inclusive era.  With a runway that glittered under massive crystal chandeliers and performances that pulsed with energy, the 2025 show celebrated diversity, body positivity, and fantasy without losing its signature sparkle.

A Star-Studded Lineup: Angels Old and New

The runway was a who’s-who of supermodels, blending legacy “Angels” with fresh faces and boundary-breakers. Opening the show was a jaw-dropping moment from Jasmine Tookes, who strutted confidently at nine months pregnant, her baby bump proudly on display in a shimmering emerald-green set adorned with delicate lace wings.  “It felt empowering to celebrate every stage of womanhood,” Tookes later shared on Instagram, echoing the brand’s shift toward inclusivity.

Veteran Angels like Adriana Lima (in her 19th show), Alessandra Ambrosio, Candice Swanepoel, Behati Prinsloo, and Doutzen Kroes commanded the catwalk in opulent ensembles—think gold-embellished bras, flowing feather trains, and diamond-encrusted corsets that evoked old Hollywood glamour.  The Hadid sisters stole the spotlight: Gigi Hadid opened the second segment in a bold floral-printed robe over lingerie, while Bella Hadid closed the finale in a dramatic 50-pound winged gown that unfurled like a phoenix, symbolizing her triumphant return after health challenges.  “This show reminds me why I fell in love with modeling—it’s about strength and fantasy,” Bella posted post-show, garnering over 2 million likes.

In a historic twist, the lineup embraced athletic icons and rising stars. WNBA sensation Angel Reese made waves as the first professional athlete to walk, channeling fierce energy in a pink athletic-inspired set with metallic accents.  Olympic gymnast Suni Lee dazzled in a PINK collection look during a performance segment, flipping the script on traditional “Angel” archetypes.  Newcomers like Emily Ratajkowski (debuting at 34 in a sleek black lace bodysuit), Precious Lee (the first curve model in a decade for the brand), and British-Indian model Neelam Gill added layers of representation, from age diversity to cultural inclusivity.  

Other highlights included Barbara Palvin’s ethereal return (supported by husband Dylan Sprouse in the front row), Ashley Graham’s second-year strut promoting body positivity, and Tyra Banks’ surprise cameo nearly 20 years after her retirement.  The full cast—featuring over 50 models like Anok Yai, Paloma Elsesser, and Iris Law—walked in themed vignettes: “Celestial Dreams,” “Urban Fantasy,” and “Eternal Bloom,” each with custom wings crafted from Swarovski crystals and ostrich feathers.

Performances That Lit Up the Night

Music was the heartbeat of the evening, with a lineup that spanned genres and generations. K-pop powerhouse TWICE brought high-energy choreography to hits like “Feel Special,” though member Tzuyu faced minor online backlash for an “off-key” moment—quickly defended by bandmates Nayeon and Jihyo, who revealed she performed while under the weather.  Colombian superstar Karol G ignited the crowd with “Amargura,” strutting in a custom VS bodysuit that matched her fiery reggaeton vibes.  “This has been a dream since I was a little girl,” she told Billboard pre-show. 

Madison Beer delivered a sultry set of “Reckless” and “Make You Say,” her pop-R&B fusion syncing perfectly with the runway’s pulse. Hip-hop legend Missy Elliott closed the musical acts with a medley of classics like “Get Ur Freak On,” her bold energy matching the models’ strut—complete with surprise guests from her catalog.  The performances weren’t just interludes; they wove into the show’s narrative, with models joining dancers on stage for seamless transitions.

Front Row Fever and Red Carpet Magic

The pink carpet was a celebrity extravaganza. Sarah Jessica Parker arrived in a vintage VS slip dress, channeling her “Sex and the City” roots, while Patrick Schwarzenegger and Abby Champion posed as the event’s golden couple.  BLACKPINK’s Lisa dominated social buzz as the most-mentioned star (despite not attending), thanks to fan edits and throwback VS dreams.  Other A-listers like Amelia Hamlin, Rafa Kalimann (showing off her baby bump), and Josie Canseco (who shaded the show’s “woke” pivot on TikTok) added edge to the glamour. 

Front-row fixtures included Rihanna (whispering with VS execs), Timothée Chalamet, and a beaming Priyanka Chopra Jonas. The energy was electric—confetti rained during the finale group walk, and post-show parties at Steiner Studios spilled into the dawn with DJ sets and champagne toasts.

Beyond the Runway: Impact and What’s Next

Critics hailed the 2025 show as a “redemption arc” for Victoria’s Secret, balancing sex appeal with empowerment after backlash over past exclusivity.  Sales of runway pieces spiked 40% within hours, with limited-edition wings and merch flying off virtual shelves.  Social media exploded: #VSFashionShow trended globally with 5 million posts, from TWICE’s performance clips to Reese’s historic walk. 

As the confetti settles, whispers of a 2026 international tour hint at expansion. For now, the 2025 show reaffirms Victoria’s Secret’s throne: a fantasy factory where every woman can spread her wings. Missed it? Stream the replay on Prime Video and shop the looks—because who says glamour can’t be inclusive?