Victoria’s Secret’s Size Inclusive Revolution: Celebrating Every Body Type
January 17, 2024
Imagine a world where beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. A world where lingerie is designed to empower and embrace the uniqueness of every body type. Well, that world is not far from reality, thanks to Victoria’s Secret’s groundbreaking size inclusive revolution.
In this informative blog, we’ll delve into the inspiring journey of Victoria’s Secret as they redefine beauty standards and embrace inclusivity on their platforms. From their diverse range of models to their inclusive sizing options, we’ll explore the steps they’ve taken to celebrate and uplift every body type.
But this isn’t just a story about a brand. It’s a story about breaking free from societal norms, embracing self-love, and fostering a sense of empowerment. It’s about shifting the narrative and redefining what it means to be beautiful.
Throughout this blog, we’ll discuss the impact of Victoria’s Secret’s size inclusive revolution, the importance of representation in the fashion industry, and the positive changes it brings for women everywhere. So, grab a cup of tea and join us as we embark on this journey of acceptance, empowerment, and celebration.
1. The History of Victoria’s Secret
1.1 Origins of Victoria’s Secret
Victoria’s Secret, a renowned lingerie brand, traces its roots back to the late 1970s when it was founded by Roy Raymond in San Francisco. At that time, the primary focus of the brand was to create a comfortable and romantic shopping experience for men purchasing lingerie for their partners.
1.2 Evolution and Popularity
Over the years, Victoria’s Secret gained immense popularity and became synonymous with glamorous lingerie and captivating fashion shows. Their strategic marketing campaigns, featuring world-famous supermodels like Adriana Lima, Karlie Kloss, and Gigi Hadid, helped create a brand image that was both aspirational and alluring.
With their push-up bras, lace panties, and innovative designs, Victoria’s Secret dominated the lingerie market and set beauty standards that reflected the culture of previous eras.
1.3 Criticisms and the Need for Change
However, in recent years, Victoria’s Secret has faced significant scrutiny and backlash. The brand has been accused of perpetuating a culture of misogyny and promoting an unrealistic and narrow standard of beauty. This criticism, coupled with a decline in sales and viewership of the once-iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, prompted the need for change.
In 2019, a controversial interview with L Brands’ CEO, Les Wexner, and the association of Victoria’s Secret with Jeffrey Epstein further intensified the calls for reform within the company.
1.4 A Shift Towards Inclusivity and Body Positivity
In response to these challenges, Victoria’s Secret embarked on a journey of transformation, aiming to become more inclusive and embrace body positivity. The brand recognized the growing demand for diversity and representation, particularly from younger generations like Gen Z.
As a result, they hired a transgender model, Valentina Sampaio, for the first time in their history, marking a significant step towards inclusivity. Additionally, Victoria’s Secret decided to retire the traditional format of the fashion show and unveiled plans for a new version that celebrates a wider range of body types.
1.5 Collaborations and Partnerships
To reinforce their commitment to diversity and inclusivity, Victoria’s Secret became a proud partner of the Runway of Dreams Foundation. This partnership allowed the brand to promote adaptive fashion and ensure that people of all abilities feel represented and celebrated.
2. Evolution towards Inclusivity
Victoria’s Secret, a once-iconic lingerie brand, has undergone a significant evolution in recent years, particularly in terms of embracing inclusivity and celebrating diversity. This section explores the strides Victoria’s Secret has taken to become more size-inclusive and body-positive.
1. Embracing a New Vision: The Shift in Perspective
Victoria’s Secret, known for its glamorous, push-up bras and its annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, was criticized for promoting unrealistic beauty standards and perpetuating a culture of misogyny. However, the brand has recognized the need for change and has taken steps to redefine its image.
2. Opening Doors to Diversity: Transgender Models on the Runway
In a move towards inclusivity, Victoria’s Secret cast Valentina Sampaio, a transgender model, for their campaign. This groundbreaking decision marked an important step for transgender visibility and representation within the fashion industry.
3. A Shift in Leadership: The Role of L Brands
With the appointment of new leadership, Victoria’s Secret has signaled a commitment to diversity and inclusivity. L Brands, the parent company, aims to reshape the brand to better reflect the changing times and meet the demands of a more diverse consumer base.
4. Celebrating All Body Types: Size-Inclusive Fashion Shows
In an effort to embrace body positivity, Victoria’s Secret introduced a new version of their fashion show that emphasizes inclusivity and features models of various sizes and shapes. This shift aims to break away from the exclusivity associated with the brand in the past.
5. Fostering Representation: Fit Events and Collaborations
To further promote inclusivity, Victoria’s Secret has organized fit events that involve customers and engage their perspectives. Additionally, the brand has collaborated with organizations like the Runway of Dreams Foundation, which promotes accessibility and inclusivity in fashion.
6. Leaving the Past Behind: Addressing Controversies
Victoria’s Secret has been determined to learn from past mistakes and move forward. The brand has acknowledged their association with Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender, and has taken steps to distance themselves from any wrongdoing. They aim to rebuild trust and establish a positive brand image.
3. Addressing Previous Criticisms
One of the main challenges faced by Victoria’s Secret in recent years has been the criticism surrounding its lack of inclusivity and representation. The brand has been called out for perpetuating narrow beauty standards and ignoring the body diversity that exists among women. However, Victoria’s Secret has taken significant steps to address and rectify these previous criticisms. Let’s take a closer look at some of these initiatives:
1. Embracing Body Positivity: In response to the growing demand for more inclusive lingerie options, Victoria’s Secret has embarked on a size-inclusive revolution. The brand has expanded its range of sizes, offering a broader spectrum that caters to a wider variety of body types. This move acknowledges that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and seeks to empower women of different body proportions to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin.
2. Diverse Representation: Victoria’s Secret has also made efforts to feature more diverse models in its advertising and fashion shows. In recent years, we have seen the inclusion of transgender models, showcasing a more inclusive and accepting stance towards gender diversity. By showcasing a wider variety of models, Victoria’s Secret aims to promote a more inclusive and representative view of beauty.
3. Redefining Standards of Beauty: Rather than focusing solely on physical appearance, Victoria’s Secret is moving towards celebrating individuality and championing women’s achievements. The brand recognizes that beauty is not limited to one specific mold, but encompasses a multitude of attributes, talents, and aspirations. Victoria’s Secret is committed to showcasing women’s achievements, highlighting their accomplishments, and embracing their unique perspectives.
4. Collaborations and Partnerships: Victoria’s Secret has also collaborated with various organizations and initiatives to further promote inclusivity. For instance, the brand is a proud partner of the Runway of Dreams Foundation, which advocates for adaptive clothing and promotes inclusivity in the fashion industry. Such partnerships demonstrate Victoria’s Secret’s commitment to supporting diverse voices and creating a more inclusive and accessible fashion landscape.
💡 key Takeaway: Victoria’s Secret has taken significant steps to address previous criticisms by embracing body positivity, featuring diverse models, redefining beauty standards, and partnering with organizations that promote inclusivity. These initiatives demonstrate the brand’s commitment to celebrating every body type and creating a more diverse and representative fashion industry.
4. Embracing Diversity: Transgender Models on the Runway
In recent years, Victoria’s Secret has made strides in embracing diversity and inclusivity on the runway, including the inclusion of transgender models. This shift represents a departure from its previous narrow standards of beauty and a step towards more representation and acceptance of diverse body types and identities.
Breaking Barriers and Challenging Norms:
Victoria’s Secret made headlines when Valentina Sampaio became the brand’s first openly transgender model in 2019. Her inclusion symbolized a significant step towards breaking barriers in the fashion industry and challenging societal norms surrounding beauty and gender.
A Shift towards Authentic Representation:
By featuring transgender models like Valentina Sampaio on the runway, Victoria’s Secret sends a powerful message to the industry and society as a whole. It promotes body positivity and self-acceptance, encouraging individuals to celebrate their unique identities.
(List) Key Moments and Impact:
Valentina Sampaio’s inclusion marked a turning point for Victoria’s Secret, as it reflected the brand’s commitment to embracing diversity.
This momentous occasion created conversations worldwide and initiated a broader dialogue on inclusivity and representation in the fashion industry.
By featuring transgender models, Victoria’s Secret reflects the growing demand for authenticity, where individuals of all identities can see themselves represented in mainstream media.
Impact beyond the Runway:
Victoria’s Secret’s commitment to diverse representation runs deeper than the runway. The brand has collaborated with organizations like the Runway of Dreams Foundation to create adaptive clothing for individuals with disabilities, further amplifying the message of inclusivity and acceptance.
💡 key Takeaway: Victoria’s Secret’s inclusion of transgender models on the runway signifies a shift towards greater acceptance and representation of diverse identities in the fashion industry. This move breaks barriers, challenges norms, and sends a powerful message of body positivity and self-acceptance.
5. Catering to Gen Z: Adapting to Changing Preferences
Gen Z, also known as the post-millennial generation, is an influential demographic with unique perspectives and preferences. With their increasing purchasing power and growing presence in the fashion industry, it is essential for lingerie brands like Victoria’s Secret to adapt and cater to their needs. This section will explore how Victoria’s Secret is embracing change and striving to resonate with Gen Z consumers.
1. Embracing Diversity and Body Positivity
In recent years, Gen Z has shown a strong commitment to diversity and body positivity. They celebrate beauty in all shapes, sizes, and identities. Victoria’s Secret, after facing criticism for its lack of inclusivity, has recognized the importance of representing a diverse range of body types. The brand has taken significant steps towards inclusivity by featuring transgender models in their campaigns and fashion shows. This move has not only been applauded by the Gen Z audience but has also been a crucial step towards fostering a more inclusive and accepting lingerie industry.
2. Shifting Cultural Values
Gen Z is known for their conscious consumerism and emphasis on sustainability. They value brands that align with their environmental and ethical beliefs. Victoria’s Secret has responded to this cultural shift by embracing more sustainable practices, such as using eco-friendly materials and promoting transparency in their supply chain. By making these changes, they are appealing to the conscience of Gen Z consumers, who are keen on supporting brands that prioritize sustainability.
3. Reimagining Fashion Shows
The once-iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, known for its extravagant productions and the display of the coveted “Angel” wings, has undergone a significant transformation. Recognizing that the traditional format was no longer resonating with the Gen Z audience, Victoria’s Secret made the bold decision to reinvent the fashion show. The new version of the fashion show focused on inclusivity, body positivity, and celebrating all forms of beauty. This revamped approach was met with enthusiasm from Gen Z, who appreciated the brand’s efforts to break away from outdated beauty standards.
4. Engaging with Gen Z Influencers
Gen Z is heavily influenced by social media, and Victoria’s Secret has recognized the power of collaborating with relevant influencers. Working with popular Gen Z influencers like Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Karlie Kloss has helped the brand reach a younger demographic and establish a connection with their target audience.
6. Body Positive Campaigns: Celebrating All Shapes and Sizes
In recent years, Victoria’s Secret has taken significant steps towards promoting body positivity and inclusivity within the lingerie industry. Recognizing the need to embrace and celebrate all body types, the once-iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show has transformed into a platform that showcases diversity and empowers individuals of every shape and size.
1. Embracing Diversity on the Runway
Victoria’s Secret has made a conscious effort to feature a wide range of models representing different body types in their fashion shows. This change is evident in the inclusion of plus-size models, transgender models, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. By doing so, Victoria’s Secret is breaking away from its traditional image and making a statement that beauty comes in various forms.
2. Collaborating with Influential Personalities
To further amplify the message of body positivity, Victoria’s Secret has collaborated with influential personalities who promote self-acceptance and inclusivity. These collaborations help dismantle societal beauty standards and foster a culture of acceptance. By partnering with organizations like the Runway of Dreams Foundation, which advocates for adaptive fashion, Victoria’s Secret actively supports individuals with disabilities and encourages the inclusion of all in the fashion industry.
3. Shifting the Narrative: From Body Image to Self-Confidence
Victoria’s Secret has recognized the importance of shifting the narrative surrounding body image. The brand has moved towards focusing on self-confidence rather than conforming to unrealistic beauty standards. With a newfound emphasis on empowering women and fostering a positive self-image, Victoria’s Secret is transcending the boundaries of traditional lingerie advertising.
4. Designing for Everyone’s Comfort
Victoria’s Secret has also expanded its product offerings to cater to a broader range of body sizes and shapes. With a focus on comfort, their innovative designs ensure that customers of all sizes can feel confident and beautiful in their lingerie. From inclusive bra sizes to a diverse range of styles, Victoria’s Secret is committed to providing options that fit and flatter a variety of body types.
💡 key Takeaway: Through their body positive campaigns, Victoria’s Secret is celebrating all shapes and sizes, embracing diversity, and empowering individuals to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. This shift in focus not only challenges societal beauty standards but also promotes a more inclusive and accepting lingerie industry.
7. Collaborating with Influencers and Celebrities
In recent years, Victoria’s Secret has recognized the importance of collaborating with influencers and celebrities to reach a wider audience and promote body positivity. By partnering with well-known figures who embrace diversity and inclusivity, Victoria’s Secret aims to reshape its brand image and cater to a more diverse range of body types.
1. Influencer Collaborations
Victoria’s Secret has embraced the power of influencer marketing, teaming up with popular social media personalities, bloggers, and content creators who promote body positivity and inclusivity.
These influencers help amplify the brand’s message of celebrating every body type, showcasing the diversity of lingerie models and emphasizing that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
2. Celebrity Ambassadors
Victoria’s Secret has also enlisted the support of influential celebrities who align with their values of inclusivity and empowerment.
Collaborations with celebrities help increase brand visibility and attract a wider audience, allowing Victoria’s Secret to connect with people who may have felt excluded in the past.
3. Promoting Diversity and Inclusivity
By featuring models from various backgrounds, ethnicities, and body types, Victoria’s Secret aims to create a more inclusive and relatable image.
These initiatives not only resonate with consumers but also send a powerful message about embracing diversity in the fashion industry.
4. Social Media Campaigns
Victoria’s Secret leverages the power of social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to share its message of body positivity and showcase diverse models.
These campaigns encourage users to share their own stories and promote a sense of inclusivity, empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty.
5. Collaborating with Charitable Organizations
Victoria’s Secret has partnered with organizations focused on promoting inclusivity and uplifting individuals with disabilities.
Through collaborations with charitable organizations like the Runway of Dreams Foundation, Victoria’s Secret is actively working towards making fashion more accessible to everyone.
💡 key Takeaway: Collaborating with influencers and celebrities allows Victoria’s Secret to promote body positivity, reach a wider audience, and celebrate the diversity of beauty.
8. The Runway of Dreams Foundation Partnership
At Victoria’s Secret, inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a commitment. The brand has made significant strides in challenging traditional beauty standards and embracing diversity. One way they are achieving this is through their proud partnership with the Runway of Dreams Foundation.
The Runway of Dreams Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating inclusive fashion experiences for people with disabilities. By collaborating with this organization, Victoria’s Secret is actively working to ensure that their brand is accessible to everyone. This partnership is a testament to the brand’s dedication to celebrating every body type and providing opportunities for individuals who have typically been underrepresented in the fashion industry.
Through this collaboration, Victoria’s Secret and the Runway of Dreams Foundation have opened up exciting new avenues for inclusivity on the runway. Together, they are breaking barriers and challenging the notion that beauty is limited to a specific size, shape, or ability. By featuring models of various abilities and disabilities, they are showcasing the beauty of diversity and empowering individuals to embrace their uniqueness.
This partnership also serves as a platform for increasing awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities in the fashion industry. By shining a spotlight on these issues, Victoria’s Secret is contributing to a more inclusive and accepting society.
The Runway of Dreams Foundation partnership represents an important step forward for Victoria’s Secret in their size-inclusive revolution. It demonstrates their commitment to E-A-T principles by actively working to provide opportunities for models of all body types, abilities, and backgrounds. By showcasing these diverse and inclusive representations on their runway, Victoria’s Secret is signaling a shift towards a more inclusive future for the fashion industry as a whole.
💡 key Takeaway: Through their partnership with the Runway of Dreams Foundation, Victoria’s Secret is actively working towards inclusivity on their runway by featuring models of various abilities and disabilities. This partnership is a testament to their commitment to celebrating every body type and challenging traditional beauty standards.
9. The Future of Victoria’s Secret
In recent years, Victoria’s Secret has faced criticism and controversy surrounding its lack of inclusivity and representation in its fashion shows and marketing campaigns. However, the brand is now making significant efforts to redefine its image and cater to a broader range of body types and identities. This section will delve into the future of Victoria’s Secret, exploring the changes the brand is implementing and the impact these changes may have on the fashion industry.
1. Embracing Size Inclusivity
One of the most notable shifts in Victoria’s Secret’s approach is its embrace of size inclusivity. The brand has recognized the demand for lingerie that caters to diverse body types and has introduced expanded size ranges. This move is in response to the growing body positivity movement and consumers’ desire to see themselves represented in the fashion industry.
Victoria’s Secret is working on expanding its range of sizes to accommodate a wider customer base. With options for plus sizes, petites, and everything in between, the brand aims to celebrate and empower every body type. By offering a diverse range of sizes, Victoria’s Secret aims to make their products accessible to women of all shapes and sizes, fostering a more inclusive and body-positive shopping experience.
2. Celebrating Diversity in Representation
In addition to size inclusivity, Victoria’s Secret is also focused on showcasing diversity in its marketing campaigns and fashion shows. The brand is actively seeking to feature models of various ethnicities, backgrounds, and gender identities. By doing so, Victoria’s Secret aims to create a more accurate representation of the diverse world we live in.
The recent announcement of the brand casting its first transgender model in its fashion show signifies a major step forward in terms of inclusivity. This move has been widely praised as a positive shift towards embracing all individuals, regardless of gender identity.
3. Incorporating Sustainable Practices
Another aspect of the future of Victoria’s Secret is its commitment to sustainability. The brand recognizes the importance of environmental responsibility and is taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint and promote ethical practices. By using eco-friendly materials and implementing sustainable production processes, Victoria’s Secret is working towards creating a more environmentally conscious fashion industry.
4. Evolving the Fashion Show Experience
One of the most significant changes in Victoria’s Secret’s future is the transformation of its iconic fashion show. After several years of hiatus, the brand is reimagining it’s fashion show to align with the changing values and preferences of consumers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Victoria’s Secret’s size inclusive revolution marks a significant milestone in the fashion industry, one that showcases the brand’s commitment to celebrating every body type. By expanding their size range and introducing diverse models, Victoria’s Secret is redefining beauty standards and encouraging inclusivity. With this new direction, women of all shapes and sizes can feel empowered and confident when shopping for lingerie. No longer limited to outdated notions of beauty, every woman can find lingerie that makes her feel beautiful and comfortable in her own skin. Victoria’s Secret’s size inclusive revolution is not just a trend; it’s a movement that promotes body positivity and self-acceptance.