How To Watch The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

Nick Leason

-Oct 16, 2025

How To Watch The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, a global spectacle known for its supermodels, elaborate wings, and musical performances, captivated audiences for decades. This guide explores its history, cultural impact, where to find past shows, and the brand's evolving approach to fashion presentations, offering insights into one of the most talked-about events in fashion.

Key Takeaways

The traditional Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, last held in 2018, is no longer an annual broadcast event.
Past shows can be watched on various streaming platforms, official brand channels, and online archives.
The show’s hiatus stemmed from declining viewership, changing consumer values, and brand controversies.
Victoria's Secret has pivoted towards more inclusive marketing and a new content-driven format, like "The Tour '23."
Understanding the show requires acknowledging its cultural impact, both positive and negative, on fashion and body image.

Introduction

For nearly 25 years, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was an unparalleled annual event, a dazzling blend of fashion, entertainment, and aspiration. Millions worldwide tuned in to see iconic supermodels, dubbed "Angels," strut down a glitter-filled runway in elaborate lingerie, accompanied by world-renowned musical artists. It was a cultural phenomenon that defined an era of luxury and fantasy, becoming synonymous with the holiday season broadcast schedule.

However, in 2019, the show went on an indefinite hiatus, a move that reflected significant shifts within the fashion industry and broader societal conversations about representation and brand values. This comprehensive guide delves into the legacy of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, shedding light on its incredible run, the reasons behind its transformation, and crucially, how you can still experience the magic of its past iterations or understand the brand's new direction today. — Most [adjective] US City: Find Your Perfect Fit

What & Why: The Phenomenon and Its Evolution

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was more than just a presentation of lingerie; it was a high-production theatrical event that cemented its place in pop culture. Originating in 1995, it quickly evolved from a simple catwalk display into a televised extravaganza, known for its opulent sets, intricate "Fantasy Bras" adorned with millions of dollars in jewels, and the star power of both its models and musical guests.

What Made It So Iconic?

Supermodel Status: The show launched the careers of many models, turning them into household names like Gisele Bündchen, Heidi Klum, Adriana Lima, and Alessandra Ambrosio, who became known as the "Victoria's Secret Angels."
Spectacle and Fantasy: Each year brought new themes, elaborate wings, and dazzling costumes that transcended typical fashion show aesthetics, creating a whimsical, almost dreamlike atmosphere.
Musical Performances: A-list artists such as Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, and Rihanna graced the stage, performing alongside the models, adding another layer of entertainment.
Cultural Conversation: The show sparked discussions about beauty standards, female empowerment, and marketing strategies, becoming a barometer for cultural norms and aspirations.

Why Did It Go Away?

The decision to cancel the traditional broadcast show in 2019 was multifaceted, driven by a confluence of factors:

Declining Viewership: Ratings steadily dropped in the years leading up to its cancellation, indicating a diminishing appeal to a younger, more diverse audience.
Changing Consumer Values: As society progressed, there was a growing demand for body positivity, diversity, and inclusivity in fashion. The show's consistent portrayal of a singular, aspirational body type began to feel outdated and exclusionary.
Brand Controversies: Victoria's Secret faced increasing criticism regarding its marketing practices, leadership, and perceived lack of diversity, culminating in a major reputational crisis.
Digital Shift: The traditional broadcast model became less relevant in an era dominated by streaming and social media, where brands could connect with consumers more directly and authentically.
Strategic Rebranding: Victoria's Secret recognized the need to evolve and announced a new direction focused on celebrating all women, moving away from the "Angels" concept and traditional runway spectacle towards more authentic and inclusive storytelling.

This shift marked a significant moment for the brand, attempting to reinvent itself for a new generation while grappling with its powerful, yet sometimes problematic, legacy. The journey to watch past shows, or understand current brand content, now involves navigating this complex history and transformation.

How-To / Steps / Framework Application: Finding and Watching Past Shows

While the live annual broadcast is a thing of the past, the legacy of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show lives on. Many of its iconic moments, dazzling performances, and stunning model walks are still accessible. Here's a framework for how to watch past Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows and understand the brand's current content strategy.

Step 1: Identify What You Want to Watch

Before diving in, decide if you're looking for:

Specific Years/Iconic Moments: Do you want to relive a particular show, see a favorite Angel, or watch a specific musical performance?
Full Show Experience: Are you aiming to watch an entire broadcast from start to finish?
Brand Evolution: Are you interested in observing how the show changed over its two-decade run?
New Brand Content: Do you want to see what Victoria's Secret is producing now, like "The Tour '23"?

Step 2: Explore Official and Streaming Platforms

Several platforms host archives or clips of past shows:

YouTube (Official Victoria's Secret Channel): The official Victoria's Secret YouTube channel is an excellent starting point. You'll find a treasure trove of content, including:
- Full-length shows from various years.
- Highlights and best-of compilations (e.g., "Best of the VS Fashion Show").
- Behind-the-scenes footage and model interviews.
- Clips of specific musical performances and segments.
- Content related to their newer initiatives, such as "The Tour '23" and campaign videos.
Streaming Services: While a dedicated "Victoria's Secret Fashion Show" channel doesn't exist on major streaming platforms, individual shows or documentaries related to the brand may appear on services like:
- Hulu, Peacock, Amazon Prime Video: Occasionally, these platforms may offer past broadcasts for rent or purchase, or include them as part of a larger fashion content library. Keep an eye on their search functions.
- Docuseries: For a deeper dive into the brand's history and controversies, look for documentaries such as Victoria's Secret: Angels and Demons, which might be available on platforms like Hulu or other documentary services. This provides critical context to the show's eventual hiatus.
Victoria's Secret Official Website: While not a primary hub for past shows, the brand's website sometimes features articles, galleries, or links to their new content initiatives, providing context for their current brand direction.

Step 3: Utilize Search Engines and Fan Sites

If you're struggling to find a specific show, a targeted search can help:

Google/Bing Search: Use specific queries like "Victoria's Secret Fashion Show [Year] full show" or "Watch Victoria's Secret Angels [Model Name] runway." This often leads to YouTube uploads or other fan-curated content.
Fashion Archives and Blogs: Many fashion history sites or fan blogs dedicated to Victoria's Secret have compiled lists and links to past shows, offering a curated experience.

Step 4: Understand the "New" Victoria's Secret Content

After 2018, the traditional format ceased. In 2023, Victoria's Secret launched "The Tour '23" as a reimagined fashion experience. This is not a direct return to the old format but a documentary-style special showcasing 20 global creatives. It blends fashion, art, and storytelling, offering a different kind of visual content. You can find this new content primarily on:

Amazon Prime Video: "The Tour '23" premiered on Prime Video, signifying a move towards direct-to-consumer digital distribution rather than traditional broadcast television.
Victoria's Secret's Official Website and Social Media: These channels will provide updates and snippets of their latest campaigns and fashion presentations.

By following these steps, you can explore the rich history of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show and stay updated on the brand's contemporary efforts.

Examples & Use Cases: Iconic Moments and Brand Shifts

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show provided countless memorable moments that resonated culturally. Examining these, alongside the brand's recent strategic shifts, illustrates its powerful, evolving narrative.

Iconic Show Moments and Their Impact

The Fantasy Bra: Each year, a different Angel was chosen to wear the "Fantasy Bra," a multi-million dollar masterpiece adorned with diamonds and precious gems. This annual reveal was a major marketing coup, generating immense buzz and solidifying the bra's status as a symbol of luxury and exclusivity. Examples include Gisele Bündchen in the Red Hot Fantasy Bra (2000) and Adriana Lima in multiple iterations.
Musical Guest Collaborations: The seamless integration of pop music's biggest stars performing live on the runway elevated the show from a mere fashion event to a full-blown concert experience. Taylor Swift's multiple appearances, Justin Bieber's early career performance, and Lady Gaga's theatrical entrance are prime examples that showcased the show's blend of fashion and entertainment.
The Wings: The elaborate, often fantastical, wings worn by the Angels became a signature element. They were artistic statements, ranging from delicate feathered creations to intricate, architectural designs. These wings weren't just accessories; they were symbols of the Angels' larger-than-life persona and the show's escapist fantasy.
Angel Walk and Posing: Each model developed a distinctive walk and stage presence, mastering the art of engaging with the audience and cameras. The confidence and glamour exuded by Angels like Alessandra Ambrosio, Candice Swanepoel, and Miranda Kerr became aspirational for millions.
Global Expansion: The show moved beyond New York City, holding events in London (2014), Paris (2016), and Shanghai (2017). This demonstrated its international appeal and ambition to capture global markets, bringing the spectacle to new audiences.

The Shift to "The Tour '23" and Beyond

The most significant "use case" in understanding the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show now is observing its transformation. The cancellation wasn't just an end; it was a catalyst for a new beginning for the brand. "The Tour '23" on Amazon Prime Video is a prime example of this: — UM Vs. FSU: Game Day Showdown

Inclusivity at its Core: Instead of a homogenous group of supermodels, "The Tour '23" features 20 global creatives from various disciplines, representing diverse body types, backgrounds, and artistic expressions. This is a direct response to past criticisms and a move towards genuine inclusivity.
Focus on Storytelling: Rather than just a runway show, "The Tour '23" is a documentary-style special. It delves into the creative process, showcasing the artists and their work, using fashion as a medium for self-expression and cultural dialogue. This allows for a deeper narrative than the traditional, fast-paced runway.
Digital-First Distribution: Partnering with Amazon Prime Video for exclusive streaming signifies a clear pivot away from broadcast television. This allows Victoria's Secret to reach a global, digitally-native audience directly and bypass the constraints of traditional networks.
Brand Mission Reinforcement: The new format aligns with Victoria's Secret's updated mission to "champion women." It aims to showcase strength, creativity, and individuality, rather than just a narrow definition of aspirational beauty. This strategic rebranding is crucial for the brand's long-term relevance.

These examples highlight not just the grandeur of the past but also the strategic evolution of a brand striving to adapt to contemporary values and redefine its place in the modern fashion landscape.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes in Engaging with VSFS Content

Engaging with content related to the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, whether past shows or new brand initiatives, can be a rich experience. However, there are best practices to ensure you get the most out of it and common mistakes to avoid. — King George, VA: Your Ultimate Guide

Best Practices

Seek Context for Past Shows: When watching older shows, remember they reflect a specific cultural moment. Understand the historical context regarding body image, marketing, and diversity. This allows for a more nuanced appreciation of both its brilliance and its flaws.
Utilize Official Channels: For the highest quality and most reliable content, prioritize the official Victoria's Secret YouTube channel, Amazon Prime Video (for "The Tour '23"), and the brand's official website. This ensures you're getting legitimate and often higher-resolution content.
Explore Documentaries and Critical Analysis: To gain a fuller understanding of the brand and the show's impact, seek out critical perspectives, documentaries (like Victoria's Secret: Angels and Demons), and articles discussing its controversies and evolution. This provides a balanced view beyond the spectacle.
Engage with New Content Open-Mindedly: Approach "The Tour '23" and other new Victoria's Secret content with an open mind. It's not designed to be a direct replacement for the old show but a different, more contemporary expression of the brand's values. Appreciate it for what it is, not what it isn't.
Focus on Specific Interests: If you're a fashion enthusiast, pay attention to the designers, themes, and craftsmanship. If you're into music, focus on the performances. If you're interested in cultural impact, analyze the messaging. Tailor your viewing to your primary interest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Expecting an Annual Broadcast: The most common mistake is assuming the traditional Victoria's Secret Fashion Show will return as an annual broadcast event. This format has been retired, and while future events may occur, they are unlikely to replicate the original televised spectacle.
Ignoring the Brand's Evolution: Dismissing the brand's new content (like "The Tour '23") without watching it can lead to a limited understanding of Victoria's Secret's efforts to adapt and redefine itself. It's important to acknowledge their pivot towards inclusivity.
Viewing Past Shows Without Critical Lens: Watching old shows solely for nostalgic enjoyment without acknowledging the criticisms they faced (e.g., lack of diversity, promotion of unrealistic body standards) can perpetuate outdated perspectives. A critical lens enhances the viewing experience.
Relying Solely on Unofficial Uploads: While useful for finding obscure clips, relying exclusively on unofficial YouTube uploads or third-party sites might expose you to lower quality video, incomplete segments, or even copyright-infringing content.
Confusing "Fashion Show" with "Campaign": New Victoria's Secret content may be presented as short films or digital campaigns rather than a single, long-form runway show. Understanding this distinction is key to setting appropriate expectations.

By following these best practices and avoiding common pitfalls, you can navigate the world of Victoria's Secret Fashion Show content more effectively, appreciating both its historical significance and its contemporary transformations.

FAQs

Q1: Is the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show still happening?

No, the traditional Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, as an annual televised broadcast with Angels, has been on an indefinite hiatus since 2019. In 2023, the brand launched "The Tour '23," a reimagined, documentary-style fashion event available on Amazon Prime Video, which features diverse creatives rather than a traditional runway show.

Q2: Where can I watch old Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows?

Many past Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows can be found on the official Victoria's Secret YouTube channel. You can often find full shows, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content there. Specific shows might also be available on certain streaming platforms or through targeted search engine queries.

Q3: Who were the most famous Victoria's Secret Angels?

Some of the most famous Victoria's Secret Angels include Gisele Bündchen, Heidi Klum, Tyra Banks, Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Miranda Kerr, Candice Swanepoel, and Karlie Kloss. These models became synonymous with the brand and gained international celebrity status.

Q4: Why did Victoria's Secret stop its fashion show?

The show was canceled due to declining television ratings, growing criticism regarding its lack of diversity and inclusivity, changing consumer preferences for more body-positive messaging, and various brand controversies. Victoria's Secret decided to pivot its marketing strategy to be more aligned with contemporary values.

Q5: What is "The Tour '23" and how is it different?

"The Tour '23" is Victoria's Secret's reimagined fashion event, released in 2023. It differs significantly from the old show by featuring 20 global creatives from diverse backgrounds, presenting their artistic visions through fashion in a documentary-style format, rather than a traditional runway spectacle with Angels. It focuses on storytelling, inclusivity, and celebration of individuality.

Q6: Can I stream "The Tour '23" for free?

"The Tour '23" premiered exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. Access typically requires an Amazon Prime subscription. While some promotional clips might be available on the brand's social media, the full feature is behind Prime's paywall.

Conclusion with CTA

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show remains a fascinating chapter in fashion history, a testament to both the power of spectacle and the necessity of evolution. While the iconic runway show featuring Angels is no longer broadcast, its legacy lives on through archives and its influence on pop culture. The brand's pivot towards inclusive, creative-driven content like "The Tour '23" marks a significant new direction, aiming to resonate with a more diverse and aware global audience.

Whether you're looking to revisit the glamour of yesteryear or explore the brand's contemporary vision, the resources are available. Dive into the archives to relive the iconic moments, or tune into the new content to witness Victoria's Secret's bold new chapter. Explore the past, understand the present, and engage with the future of this iconic brand.

Last updated: July 22, 2024, 12:00 UTC