I've always loved Victoria's Secret fashion show for the idea behind it. It showcases models in lingerie walking a catwalk in amazing angel wings, diamond-encrusted bras, and beautiful high heels.
The show was canceled after backlash over the brand representing an unrealistic body image that wasn't achievable by most consumers. Since Rihanna came out with the Savage x Fenty lingerie collection which was inclusive of all body types the VS shows support plummeted. I understand this in the way that the thin, toned and tall body type is uncommon within society but isn't that the point in the show? It is unrealistic because its a fantasy and that's what they are selling.
I think a lot of people forget that Victorias Secret is a very inclusive brand in the way that they take models from all backgrounds, all ethnicities, and religions and make them 'angels'. That is what they first started on, including the world in their show by making it available to stream everywhere not just being an exclusive event for A-listers. Many other brands still do not feature other body types on the runways but they are never the target of gunfire as the models will be not be showing as much skin as the lingerie models do.
On the other hand, a feminist opinion would be completely against the show. Former Victoria’s Secret Angel Karlie Kloss stated: “The reason I decided to stop working with Victoria’s Secret was I didn’t feel it was an image that was truly reflective of who I am and the kind of message I want to send to young women around the world about what it means to be beautiful.” She told British Vogue that leaving the brand was “a pivotal moment in me stepping into my power as a feminist”.
In my opinion, the show will be missed, it was always an exciting night being curled up in bed with my two elder sisters watching the show, picking out our favorite looks, but I do believe that it creates the wrong image for younger girls of what is perfect. I always wanted to look like the models (and obviously still do) but as I've grown up I know that it's unachievable without having a celebrity bank balance. You don't need an iron board stomach, the perfect boobs, and a Brazillian bum lift to be beautiful.
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