Doutzen Kroes Embraces Aging at Victoria’s Secret Show Return
Doutzen Kroes, a familiar face to fans of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, has returned to the iconic runway after a decade. The Dutch supermodel, who first walked for the brand in 2005, expressed her amazement at how quickly time has passed since her last appearance in 2014. “It’s incredible. I cannot believe it’s been 10 years — I had to look it up! Where did the time go?” she said in an interview prior to the show.
As she prepares to strut down the runway, Kroes reflects not only on her personal journey but also on society’s evolving perception of beauty.
The Significance of Returning
Kroes made headlines with her appearance alongside other top models like Adriana Lima, Tyra Banks, and Alessandra Ambrosio during the much-anticipated return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. The show aired live on October 15, 2024, marking the brand’s comeback after nearly six years away from the spotlight.
“I’m 39 now, and getting wrinkles here and there,” Kroes candidly admitted, highlighting her acceptance of aging in an industry often fixated on youth. “I want to see beauty in everything. Self-development, self-care, and self-love … I really believe that’s what shows beauty.”
This return isn’t just about glamour. It symbolizes a shift in the fashion industry, as many models embrace aging and diversity. The models participating this year come from varied backgrounds, each bringing their unique essence to the show.
Modernizing Beauty Standards
The Victoria’s Secret brand has promised to modernize its image and adapt to contemporary standards of beauty. Kroes reflected on her personal growth since her last appearance, emphasizing the importance of self-worth beyond her career.
- “I’ve learned that work is not who I am. I am not my job,” she stated.
- “Everything that I get to do for my job is a bonus — and I really, really enjoy it.”
This sentiment aligns with broader conversations in fashion about redefining what beauty means today. As Kroes and her peers prepare to showcase their talents, their presence serves as a powerful reminder that confidence and self-acceptance are key components of true beauty.
A New Era for Victoria’s Secret
The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show featured not only celebrated models but also notable performers. For the first time, it had an all-female lineup of musical acts, with Cher, Tyla, and Lisa from Blackpink. This marks a significant change in the brand’s approach, as it embraces a more inclusive atmosphere.
Model Mayowa Nicholas shared her excitement about the investment in female talent, noting, “The energy of the room is all about celebrating women. I feel like this is the year for women, and it feels good.”
The return of familiar faces and the support for a diverse range of artists reflects a commitment to inclusivity that seems to resonate with audiences.
What to Expect from the Show
Fans eager to see the legacy of Victoria’s Secret come to life can expect extravagant sets, creative performances, and striking visuals that have defined the brand for decades.
Key highlights from the show include:
- Iconic angel wings and signature lingerie designs.
- Emotional and empowering performances by female artists.
- A focus on celebrating the strengths and uniqueness of each participating model.
The live format of the event marked a departure from the pre-taped shows of the past, inviting viewers to experience the excitement of the runway in real time.
The Impact of Time
As Kroes prepares to take to the runway one last time, she is not just reminiscing. She is looking forward to contributing to a new definition of beauty and empowerment in fashion. “I’m a different person since I last walked the runway,” she stated.
The show’s return is not only a celebration of the models’ careers but also an acknowledgment of the growth they have experienced in their personal lives. The industry that once defined them is now witnessing their evolution, as they embrace authenticity and strength.
A Bright Future
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is back, but it’s not the same it once was. With a new focus on diversity, age acceptance, and empowerment, the runway is a platform for women to celebrate their beauty in all forms.
As Filipina-American designer Chynna Malson puts it, “This show is a beautiful representation of the modern woman — resilient, diverse, and unapologetic.”
This reinvention is set to inspire future generations of models and change how beauty is perceived in the years to come.
As the world watched the stunning models shine on that bright runway, it became clear: beauty is timeless, and so are the powerful messages they embody