The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show used to be one of the biggest fashion events of the year. Sandwiched somewhere between the Met Gala and the resort season. In fact, much like the Met Gala, in its later years, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show became more about crazy getups. That's especially true when it comes to the wings. The lingerie giant actually outfitted models with wings even back in the early aughts (the show started in 1995). But as the years went on, the wings became more elaborate and frequently gaudy. Frankly, we don't know how participants were able to walk down the runway with those things strapped to their backs.
As much of a spectacle as the show came to be, it was its lack of body and gender diversity that caused its cancellation. The brand's former marketing chief Ed Rezak actually told Vogue that transgender and plus-size models didn't belong on the label's runway. The brand's sales also struggled due to increased competition with lingerie brands built around an inclusive model. In a slightly surprising move, Victoria's Secret just announced that the fashion show will make a comeback. Complete with "the glamour, runway, wings, musical entertainment and more." The question remains, however, will viewers actually tune in? There's no word yet on when, where and exactly how, but it's making us reminisce about all of the over-the-top looks from years past.
The Most Epic Moments From the Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows
Fiercely Understated
These feathered wings seemed revolutionary in 2001. Although they're actually pretty tame compared to the later iterations.
Snow Queen
Heidi Klum is one of the original Victoria's Secret Angels. Here she was transformed into a human snowflake.
Put a Bow on It
This embellished bow from the 2008 show actually outshone Klum's pearl-accented lingerie. Which is not an easy thing to do.
Blowing Bubbles
Chanel Iman's bubble wings somewhat coordinated with her polka dot dress. With its layered tulle skirt, it didn't really seem to fit in at a lingerie presentation.
Proud as a Peacock
Karolina Kurkova strutted her stuff in peacock-inspired wings. The leopard printed top and bottom seem a tad out of place, however.
Rhythm and Ribbons
Izabel Goulart looks like she just finished a rhythm gymnastics routine. At least her plunging bodysuit and bra were color-coordinated.
Serving Shade
Three parasols are obviously better than one. Especially when two are used as wings.
Under the Sea
Miranda Kerr looks like she just emerged from the ocean thanks to her pearl-encrusted half shell. Even her sandals tied into the underwater theme.
As Coquette as You Can Get
The coquette aesthetic was alive and well in 2012. See these turquoise wings with pink bows as proof.
Marquee Moment
The lights decorating these wings makes us think of a marquee sign. The lacy lingerie is actually upstaged by the sign.
Graffiti Backdrop
Elsa Hosk stood out in the PINK section of the show. It's all thanks to spray painted and pink, fur-trimmed wings.
Fireworks
Behati Prinsloo looked ready to celebrate the Fourth of July with these sparklers. They even came in different colors.
Bold Butterfly
The multicolored sparkling top is just as amazing as the butterfly wings. We're also fans of the butterfly footwear.
Night-Light
These light-up wings will come in handy when we're trying to put together our Romeo + Juliet Halloween costume. We might even keep the embellished bodice.
Wonder Wheels
Between the flashy colors, the feather trim and the embellished lingerie, we don't know where to look. Especially since said embellishments extend all the way down to the shoes.
Slaying the Dragon
The teal-colored bra and bikini complement the dragon perfectly. The patterned over-the-knee boots also work well with the overall outfit.
Sky High
It was hard to miss Kendall Jenner decked out with this feathered headdress. The red in the wings was a subtle nod to her rust-colored top, bottoms and boots.
Bounty of Bows
These cheeky wings were covered in bows that coordinated with the PINK outfit. While their tails simulated feathers.
Prepare for Landing
The colorful floral crop top and matching briefs would actually make a great no pants outfit. Just leave the multicolored parachute behind.
