Once considered the sexiest and most daring night in fashion, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was accused of going "woke" as it returned after a six-year hiatus.
Fans criticized the new version of the event, calling it "boring" and underwhelming following its long absence.
The show featured Brazilian model Valentina Sampaio, who in 2019 became the first transgender model to represent the brand, walking the Victoria’s Secret runway for the first time.
Transgender model Alex Consani also graced the catwalk, as the lingerie brand continued its push for greater inclusivity.
Some felt the event was a far cry from its glory days when extravagant walks and outfits dominated the fashion world for weeks after airing, before the company faced scandals related to allegations of a "toxic" workplace culture.
Victoria's Secret has also experienced declining sales, with critics attributing this to its recent shift towards inclusivity, including the use of plus-sized models, which they say has not resonated with consumers.
The show featured an all-woman musical lineup for the first time ever, headlined by Cher, along with Blackpink alum Lisa and rising star Tyla.
However, backlash emerged on X (formerly Twitter), with viewers criticizing the toned-down production and "woke" approach.
The brand was once renowned for its sultry catwalks featuring supermodels like Cara Delevingne and Miranda Kerr, known as "Angels."
In the past, models would strut down the runway in 10-foot white feathered wings, thongs, and basques, but the new version left many fans disappointed.
"Victoria’s Secret came back with the most boring show ever," said one commenter, while another remarked, "The Victoria’s Secret show looks so modern and boring now, I’m disappointed."
Another viewer commented, "Victoria Secret has yet to listen to our public demands. This is not the show we wanted. Everyone’s hair is flat, no extremely tall models, the entire production is different."
One poster added, "Victoria Secret really said go woke, go broke."
Other comments included, "The new Victoria's secret fashion show feels so SOULLESS omg... and like why are they playing fake crowd cheering sounds? where's the iconic runway???"
One more viewer noted, "This was cute but it wasn’t enough… we need to bring back the glitter runway, more lively performances!"
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