The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is back — and it’s more dazzling than ever. From Gigi and Bella Hadid to Emily Ratajkowski and Ashley Graham, the 2025 runway in New York City was a celebration of beauty, boldness, and inclusivity. But as fans watched the glittering wings and sultry lingerie sweep across the stage, many found themselves asking a question they’d never considered before:
Who is Victoria? And what exactly is her secret?
It’s a fair question — and the answer might surprise you.
A Name Inspired by Royalty
Victoria’s Secret isn’t named after a model, designer, or founder. It’s actually a nod to Queen Victoria, the British monarch who reigned from 1837 to 1901. During her time, women’s undergarments were elaborate and hidden — corsets, petticoats, bloomers — all tucked beneath layers of elegant gowns. These garments were considered private, even taboo, and rarely discussed in public.
That “secret” — the mystery of what lay beneath — inspired the brand’s name.
The Man Behind the Brand
Victoria’s Secret was founded in 1977 by American entrepreneur Roy Raymond, who had a frustrating experience shopping for lingerie for his wife. He found department stores awkward and unwelcoming, filled with frumpy robes and floral nightgowns. Worse, the female staff made him feel like he didn’t belong.
“I always had the feeling the department store sales women thought I was an unwelcome intruder,” Raymond told Newsweek.
So he created a store where men could shop confidently and women could feel elegant and empowered. He named it “Victoria’s Secret” to evoke the sophistication of Victorian-era boudoirs — romantic, refined, and just a little bit risqué.
From Hidden Corsets to Runway Glamour
What started as a single store in California has grown into a global brand worth billions. Victoria’s Secret became famous for its catalogues, its supermodel “Angels,” and its annual fashion show — a spectacle of wings, glitter, and high fashion.
From 1995 to 2018, the show featured top models like Heidi Klum, Adriana Lima, and Candice Swanepoel. After a brief hiatus in 2019, the show returned with a more inclusive and modern feel.
The 2025 edition was a perfect example. Jasmine Tookes opened the show in a gold beaded ensemble, proudly cradling her baby bump. Gigi Hadid stunned in pink floral lingerie, while Bella Hadid rocked both white angel wings and a fiery red look. Ashley Graham brought fierce energy in glittery black lingerie, proving that beauty comes in every shape.
Music, Diversity, and Firsts
The night also featured performances by Madison Beer, Karol G, and Missy Elliott, plus a historic appearance by TWICE, the first K-pop girl group to perform at the event. The runway was a celebration of diversity, artistry, and empowerment — a far cry from the brand’s early days.
So What’s the Secret?
Victoria’s Secret isn’t just about lingerie. It’s about the transformation of something once hidden into something celebrated. It’s about confidence, elegance, and the evolution of beauty across generations.
So next time you see those iconic wings or a shimmering runway look, remember: the name isn’t just catchy — it’s a tribute to history, mystery, and the timeless allure of femininity.