When Victoria's Secret introduced its now-legendary fashion show in 1995, it was a relatively low-key event showcasing lingerie in a simple, yet luxurious setting. But over the years, the runway transformed into a global spectacle, mixing high fashion with over-the-top performances.
By the early 2000s, the show featured powerhouse names like Gisele Bündchen, Tyra Banks, and Heidi Klum, who became synonymous with the brand’s “Angel” status. The event also became a platform for emerging supermodels and A-list performers, from Beyoncé to Taylor Swift, amplifying its allure.
Photo: Jason Nevader/Getty Images
The show took a break in 2019 after public backlash over a lack of inclusivity, but it’s returning with a modern edge. Victoria's Secret promises the 2024 comeback will reflect contemporary values, but it's also leaning heavily on nostalgia by bringing back fan favorites like Tyra Banks, Candice Swanepoel, and Gigi Hadid.
After its return on October 15 after a hiatus, let’s dive into some of the most unforgettable moments that defined this fashion legacy.
1. Angelika Kallio, 1995
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At its debut at The Plaza Hotel, models kept it chic and modest in dresses, slips, corsets, and robes—far from the dramatic, skin-baring styles that would soon take over. Splashes of pink silk hinted at the signature Victoria’s Secret vibe to come.
2. Karen Mulder, 1997
Photo: Ron Galella, Ltd/Getty Images
For the third show, Karen Mulder stunned in a feather-trimmed jacket paired with classic black high-waisted underwear. The sleek, sophisticated look was still reigning supreme.
3. Naomi Campbell, 1997
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Campbell wowed in a sheer black corset ensemble, adorned with puff sleeves and a dramatic neckpiece, pushing the boundaries of lingerie chic.
4. Karen Mulder, 1998
Photo: Ron Galella, Ltd/Getty Images
1998 marked the introduction of wings to the show, and Mulder wore one of the first sets with a stunning white bra and panty set. Wings quickly became the brand’s signature.
5. Tyra Banks, 1999
Photo: Stan Honda/Getty Images
Tyra Banks brought drama in a satin bra, underwear, and matching organza cape, showcasing her enduring status as a runway queen.
6. Gisele Bündchen, 2000
Photo: Getty Images
In 2000, Bündchen led a new era of low-rise underwear, wearing a shimmering teal top with a cape and string bikini bottoms.
7. Heidi Klum, 2001
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Heidi Klum modeled the Heavenly Star Fantasy Bra—encrusted with pink sapphires and diamonds worth $12.5 million, making her a walking jewel.
8. Adriana Lima, 2001
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A vision in pink, Adriana Lima’s satin corset and bikini combo had everyone talking about her Barbie-like appeal.
9. Naomi Campbell, 2002
Photo: KMAZUR/Getty Images
Naomi owned the stage again in a fiery red set embellished with florals and dramatic red and black wings.
10. Naomi Campbell, 2003
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In 2003, Campbell showcased her signature Y2K glamour, complete with a shimmering fringe top and high ponytail, channeling sheer elegance.
11. Gisele Bündchen, 2005
Photo: M.Von Holden/Getty Images
Bündchen brought holiday cheer in a Christmas-themed Fantasy Bra, adorned with a 101-carat diamond centerpiece.
12. Adriana Lima, 2005
Photo: Tom Gisondi/Getty Images
Dressed like a gift, Lima walked the runway with a teal bow, ushering in the show’s full embrace of theatrical, campy costumes.
13. Karolina Kurkova, 2006
Photo: Arun Nevader/Getty Images
In 2006, Kurkova's Hearts on Fire Diamond Fantasy Bra dazzled with over 2,000 diamonds, perfectly paired with icy queen-like wings.
14. Selita Ebanks, 2007
Photo: Steve Granitz/Getty Images
Selita Ebanks turned heads with her sequined taxi-yellow bra and underwear, taking campy runway looks to new heights.
15. Heidi Klum, 2007
Photo: Gabriel Bouys/Getty Images
For her 10th show, Klum wore enormous snowflake wings and a corset, performing alongside then-husband Seal.
16. Heidi Klum, 2008
Photo: John Parra/Getty Images
Klum one-upped herself in a bedazzled body chain look, with sequin bow wings in bold, hot pink.
17. Karolina Kurkova, 2010
Photo: Timothy A. Clary/Getty Images
Kurkova’s larger-than-life peacock wings and leopard print set defined the 2010 Wild Things segment.
18. Miranda Kerr, 2011
Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
Kerr embodied oceanic glamour in the $2 million Fantasy Bra adorned with diamonds and pearls, a nod to the Aquatic Angels theme.
19. Candice Swanepoel, 2013
Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
Swanepoel’s $10 million Fantasy Bra, encrusted with sapphires and rubies, made her shine as the show’s reigning queen.
20. Alessandra Ambrosio and Adriana Lima, 2014
Photo: Antonio de Moraes Barros Filho/Getty Images
Ambrosio and Lima took the runway in twin Fantasy Bras for a historic first and last dual appearance, cementing their legacies.
21. Karlie Kloss and Taylor Swift, 2014
Photo: Rune Hellestad-Corbis/Getty Images
Taylor Swift serenaded her runway bestie Karlie Kloss, with the duo walking hand-in-hand in matching lace outfits.
22. Lais Ribeiro, 2017
Photo: Taylor Hill
Ribeiro’s Champagne Nights Fantasy Bra, with 6,000 diamonds and sapphires, brought a celestial dream to life.
23. Gigi Hadid, 2018
Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
Hadid floated down the runway in a parachute-inspired wings ensemble, part of the Celestial Angel theme.
24. Elsa Hosk, 2018
Photo: Stephane Cardinale-Corbis /Getty Images
Hosk dazzled in a diamond-encrusted bralette, featuring 2,100 Swarovski crystals, marking a radiant end to the show’s iconic run.
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