The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show reached a dazzling crescendo with none other than Tyra Banks taking the spotlight. After nearly two decades away from the iconic runway, Banks, now 50, made a triumphant return that not only celebrated her legacy but also marked a significant moment in the evolution of the brand itself.
When Banks emerged from below the stage, her outfit was both breathtaking and representative of her illustrious career as a supermodel. Clad in a black bedazzled bra and corset paired with glimmering black leggings, her look was striking. The midsection of her ensemble was adorned with radiant silver jewels, which gleamed under the stage lights, accentuating her commanding presence. Completing the ensemble was a flowing metallic jacket, which she elegantly waved, inviting the audience to share in the celebration. The tied-in theme of the evening was palpable; the models, including titans of the runway like Adriana Lima, Gigi Hadid, and Kate Moss, followed her cue, walking in unity and poise, while vibrant pink confetti rained down, culminating in a joyous atmosphere.
Banks’ return signifies a powerful reconnection with the fashion world, which has evolved considerably since her last appearance in 2005. Her choice of attire not only embodied glamour and nostalgia but also aligned perfectly with the modern sensibilities of inclusivity and empowerment that the Victoria’s Secret brand is striving to embrace.
In a moment captured offstage, Tyra offered her insights to TikTok star Tefi Pessoa, reminiscing about the impact of her previous farewell. “The moment I retired — not because it was over; it was the outfit… It just felt so good,” she shared. Her reflections speak to the emotional ties models develop with their craft; for Banks, the runway has always symbolized not just fashion but aspirations and dreams, a theme she conveyed to her social media followers leading up to the show.
On the eve of her significant return, she urged her followers to dream big and dispel doubts, stating, “Never too young to SMiZE, never too old to DREAM.” This uplifting message resonates in today’s climate, where self-confidence and body positivity are increasingly valued. Banks’ words extend beyond mere encouragement; they foster a profound connection to her audience, reminding them of their own potential and ambitions.
Tyra Banks stands as a groundbreaking figure in the fashion industry, noted for being the first African American woman to grace the cover of the Victoria’s Secret catalog. With a career that includes her initial runway debut in 1996 and eight more shows to follow, her legacy is deeply entrenched in the narrative of diversity within fashion. Her reappearance in the 2024 show is symbolic of the brand’s journey toward inclusivity.
After years of criticism, particularly regarding the lack of diverse representation in its modeling selections, the Victoria’s Secret brand has sought to redefine itself. The return of the runway show signifies a conscious effort to align with the evolving dynamics of the fashion industry, which now celebrates a broader spectrum of beauty. While the show was absent for five years due to its controversial past, the renewed format now aims to showcase a more diverse array of models, allowing for a mosaic of voices to be heard in the fashion discourse.
As the show transitioned from its long-standing format on network television to a more modern streaming presence on Prime Video, it reflects the ongoing evolution of media consumption and audience engagement. Tyra Banks’ presence is not merely an homage to the past; it is an integral part of the brand’s future narrative. In revamping the show, Victoria’s Secret is not only attempting to reclaim its former glory but is also illustrating its commitment to progress.
Tyra Banks’ show-stopping return at the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is emblematic of a pivotal moment in both her career and the brand’s journey. As fashion continues to evolve, the intersection of legacy, inclusivity, and empowerment remains vital for future endeavors, and Banks stands at the forefront of this significant shift. Her return not only energizes the legacy of Victoria’s Secret but also serves as a clarion call for hope and ambition in the fashion industry and beyond.