On October 15, 2024, the fashion world witnessed a significant moment as Ashley Graham, a renowned curve model, made her debut on the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway. This event marked not only Graham’s first appearance for the brand but also a pivotal step in Victoria’s Secret’s journey towards greater inclusivity and diversity.
A New Era for Victoria’s Secret
The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show marked the grand return of the event after a six-year hiatus. The last show was held in 2018, and subsequent years saw the cancellation of the event due to backlash over the lack of model diversity and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, under new management and with a renewed commitment to modernity and inclusivity, the brand announced its comeback earlier this year with an Instagram video promising a new vision that reflects the current times
Ashley Graham’s Journey to the Runway
Ashley Graham, known for her advocacy of body positivity and her role as a curve model, expressed her excitement and pride in being part of this historic event. When asked about her feelings ahead of the show, Graham told PEOPLE,
“I am feeling really excited. I’m not nervous, and everything’s very secure, we’re not going to have anything pop out, which makes me feel good so I can strut it, and I’m honestly more excited just for the full representation that’s going to happen during the show.”
Graham’s involvement was not without initial hesitation, given the brand’s historical lack of size inclusivity. However, after discussions with the head of Victoria’s Secret, who assured her of the brand’s plan to introduce extended sizes, Graham agreed to participate. This decision was driven by her desire to see more women represented on the runway, reflecting the diversity of body types that were previously underrepresented during Fashion Month.
The Show and Graham’s Look
During the show, Graham walked the runway in a sparkly bodysuit, a sheer robe, and gold flower-embellished wings, exuding confidence and glamour. Her look was a result of a deliberate choice; initially, she was given a smaller outfit, which she humorously described as inadequate given her recent motherhood.
“The first thing they gave me was this tiny, tiny little underwear, and I said, ‘Hello, I just had three children,'” Graham joked. “Even though it was like two years ago, but I was like, ‘Is there any more we can put on?’ So then I got a bodysuit and I feel really sexy in it, and then when the wings came out, that’s when I was like, ‘Oh yeah, I feel like an Angel. This is hot.'”
Graham also praised the comfort and design of her custom Rene Caovilla heels, saying she was “born in heels” and thrilled to stomp down the runway in them. Her wings, which she jokingly described as comfortable on her “big arms,” added to her angelic appearance.
Representation and Empowerment
Ashley Graham’s participation in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is more than just a personal milestone; it represents a broader shift towards inclusivity in the fashion industry. As a curve model, Graham has consistently advocated for body positivity and the empowerment of women of all shapes and sizes. In 2022, she emphasized that discussing her body and empowering women is an integral part of her brand and ethos.
Graham’s presence on the runway, alongside other iconic models such as Tyra Banks, Gigi Hadid, Adriana Lima, and Candice Swanepoel, underscores the brand’s commitment to featuring a diverse range of models. This move is seen as a significant step forward in breaking down barriers and challenging traditional beauty standards in the fashion industry.
The Future of Victoria’s Secret
The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is not just a one-time event but a harbinger of the brand’s new direction. With a renewed focus on inclusivity, diversity, and modernity, Victoria’s Secret aims to reconnect with its audience and redefine its place in the fashion world.
The show’s return, marked by Graham’s debut and the presence of other diverse models, signals a promising future for the brand as it strives to reflect the contemporary values of body positivity and inclusivity.
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