Written by The Strategy
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show that we know today is a behemoth of fashion shows. The runways, the wings and the performers are all larger-than-life, and the millions of viewers it draws in each year, has it winning the night when it comes to TV ratings. But, the VS fashion show wasn’t always such a massive production. In fact, it actually had quite humble beginnings.
In August 1995, the first ever Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show took place in a small town called, New York City, in The Plaza Hotel. The debut show featured 16 or so models, which included the likes of Veronica Webb and Stephanie Seymour. The ladies were dressed in simple slips, matching bra and panty sets, and accessorized with cardigans, silk robes and handbags. While last year’s show drew in 6.65 million television viewers, the 1995 show was only for the eyes of select businessmen, and journalists. We were being serious when we said the beginnings were humble.
It was only in 2001 that the show moved from no broadcast, to a live broadcast, to finally an ABC televised broadcast. It was also the year the world was first introduced to the Fantasy Bra, worn by Heidi Klum. And going back even further, it was only in 1998 that Wings were even introduced. It’s almost impossible to imagine a VS runway show without the gigantic, ornate angel wings.
Today, in it’s 23rd year, the show is taking place in Shanghai. Another exotic local to add to it’s roster of glamorous cities the show has since travelled to. Cities like Paris, London, Miami, and Cannes. There are 55 models walking the runway including, Adriana Lima, Bella Hadid and Karlie Kloss. Veteran angel Alessandra Ambrosio is walking the bejewelled runway for the last time. 2017 also marks the first time in the brands history that it will be collaborating with a high-end designer. Balmain x Victoria’s Secret will be part of the 88 looks coming down the runway.
Things have changed quite drastically since 1995, and in this case, we think change is good. Tune into the 2017 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show on CBS this Tuesday Nov. 28th at 10PM EST.
