Ohh Victoria, is it still a Secret?

 So we all tuned in to the Victoria Secret fashion show awhile back, and personally I was pleasantly entertained. We saw some nostalgic faces and some new models bringing on the angel image for the brand, and while the star studded show wowed many of us all, there is only one question that rang through my head while watching. Is it even ethical? Sure, the glitz, glamour, and perfectly curated images might distract us momentarily, but behind the scenes of the fashion industry—especially for a brand like Victoria’s Secret—there are some serious concerns worth addressing.

First and foremost, the brand has long been criticized for its lack of diversity and inclusivity. For years, the Victoria's Secret runway was dominated by a very narrow beauty standard: tall, thin, and mostly white. While the recent show has made strides to include a broader range of models, it still begs the question: how can a brand known for promoting such unrealistic body ideals pivot towards body positivity in a way that feels authentic?

Then there’s the issue of labor. The fast-paced production cycle of mass-market brands like Victoria’s Secret often leads to exploitative labor practices. Factories in developing countries, where much of the brand’s lingerie is made, are notorious for poor working conditions, low wages, and environmental harm. So while we’re watching these beautifully crafted garments float down the runway, the workers behind them are often facing harsh realities.

And let’s not forget about sustainability. Lingerie might seem like a small item, but the environmental impact of producing those delicate pieces is anything but. From synthetic fabrics that don't biodegrade to harmful dyes and chemicals used in production, the fashion industry at large—Victoria’s Secret included—has a long way to go in terms of sustainable practices.

So, while the show may have dazzled us on the surface, it’s important to look deeper. Fashion should be fun, creative, and expressive, but it also needs to evolve into something more responsible. The real question is, can brands like Victoria’s Secret make the shift, or will they remain stuck in their old ways?