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How to Become a Victoria’s Secret Model, Who Owns the Brand & More

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Victoria’s Secret is one of the most popular retail brands in the United States. The brand is known for its famed Fashion Show, which was held from 1995-2018. But, it has since become more inclusive and body positive. There are many people who rose to fame after becoming an Angel or taking part in the VS Fashion Show, such as Heidi Klum and Chanel Iman. The company even launched PINK, a clothing division with athletic-casual, or “athleisure” wear. Get more details about Victoria’s Secret below, including how to become a model, who owns the company and see popular models from then to now.


How to become a Victoria’s Secret model

The castings for Victoria’s Secret were intense. To even be considered for an event such as the Fashion Show, you had to go into the mix with up to 500 other hopefuls. According to Cosmopolitan, of those 500, only 300 would go in front of VS executives to walk. Then, of those, only 44 would go on to make the final cut.

One option is to land a spot modeling for VS PINK, like Taylor Hill did. After modeling for PINK, Hill moved to the main brand, and eventually went on to become an Angel. Once you get your foot in the door, you have to keep working and hustling to get where you want to be. Not to mention, you have to abide by some pretty rigorous requirements. A 2016 LinkedIn article revealed that models must be at least 5’7” and be signed with a New York-based agency. The article reported that Elite Model Management and FORD Models have provided the most Angels for VS.

Other popular agencies include: NEXT Management, Wilhelmina, CAA and IMG. Getting proper headshots taken is a key component as well. Professional photographers can take great pictures of you and get you on the path to success. If you have done any print work, runway work, modeling or fashion work, put that into a portfolio to show diversity as a model. This will help you when you do go-sees as well.

Becoming a VS model also means staying in great shape. Exercise classes, cardio and some strength training to build a bit of muscle can be helpful. Keeping track of what food you’re eating can also be a tool to have, since you want to stay in tip-top shape to wear the VS wardrobe. The more non-processed foods, the better. No extremes here, but with daily exercise and eating right, your body will be well on its way to Victoria’s Secret model status.

Here is a great Victoria’s Secret inspired workout created by fitness enthusiast, Mary Braun.


Who Owns Victoria’s Secret?

Victoria’s Secret was founded in 1977 by Roy and Gaye Raymond. In 1982, the Raymonds sold VS to Les Wexner of Limited (now known as L Brands). During that time, he helped launch the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, which became one of its most popular events. The fashion shows featured runway models, VS Angels and musical performers such as Ariana Grande.

Wexner stepped down in 2020, and by 2021, the brand had new owners and new spokeswomen. Martin Waters was named CEO in 2021; Amy Hauk was named chief executive of both the Victoria’s Secret and PINK brands in 2022. They were also rebranded as Victoria’s Secret & Co.


VS Models: Where Are They Now?

As mentioned earlier, a lot of famous models rose up the ranks in Victoria’s Secret. Names such as:

Karlie Kloss (VS: 2013–2015)

Miranda Kerr (VS: 2007–2013)

Adriana Lima (VS: 2000–2018)

Barbara Palvin (VS: 2019–2021)

Candice Swanepoel (VS: 2010–2018)

Tyra Banks (VS: 1997–2005)

Alessandra Ambrosio (VS: 2004–2017)


You can shop Victoria’s Secret in stores or online. You can also follow them on Instagram.


MORE VICTORIA’S SECRET NEWS

How Victoria’s Secret Model Sara Sampaio Gets Ready for the Day – See Morning Routine Inside!

Barbara Palvin Reveals Her Personal Diet and Workout Routine as a Victoria’s Secret Angel

20 Heavenly Beauty Tips From Your Favorite Victoria’s Secret Angels