Hey everyone, and welcome back to the channel! Today, we’re demystifying a brand that’s been a household name for decades: Victoria’s Secret. But what exactly is it, and why has it been so prominent in the world of fashion and beauty?
Victoria’s Secret started in 1977, founded by Roy Raymond. His initial idea was to create a comfortable space for men to buy lingerie for their partners, feeling unwelcome in traditional department stores. He even named it after Queen Victoria to suggest refinement, with the “secret” being the hidden allure of lingerie. However, the company was bought by Les Wexner in 1982, who saw a different vision. He quickly pivoted the brand’s focus directly to women, aiming to make them feel glamorous and confident in their purchases.
So, what do they sell? Primarily, Victoria’s Secret is known for its wide range of lingerie, like bras and panties. But their offerings extend far beyond that! You’ll find sleepwear, cozy loungewear, and even athleisure. They also have a popular line of beauty products, including fragrances and body care. And for younger customers, there’s PINK, a sub-brand catering to teens and young adults with more casual and comfortable styles.
For years, Victoria’s Secret was synonymous with its dazzling annual fashion shows, featuring supermodel “Angels” in elaborate, often winged, outfits. This created a very aspirational, glamorous, and sometimes controversial, image. However, in recent years, the brand faced criticism for its narrow definition of beauty and lack of diversity, leading to declining sales and the cancellation of its iconic fashion shows in 2019.
In response, Victoria’s Secret has undergone a major rebranding. They’re now focusing on inclusivity, diversity, and empowering women of all backgrounds. They’ve introduced new brand ambassadors, the “VS Collective,” who represent a wider range of women, and are shifting their marketing to celebrate confidence and comfort for every body.
So, in a nutshell, Victoria’s Secret is a global retailer that, while historically known for glamorous lingerie and supermodel shows, is now actively working to redefine itself as a brand that champions inclusivity, comfort, and empowerment for all women. It’s a brand continually evolving with the times, aiming to make every woman feel confident and beautiful in her own skin.