12 of the most memorable moments in Victoria's Secret Show history


With million-dollar fantasy bras, out-of-control angel wings and Gisele's backstage snacks, check out the most memorable moments of the Victoria's Secret show.

Like clockwork, the Victoria's Secret show punctuates our social media feeds every year with a world-class event full of flesh, lingerie and, of course, angel wings.

The original Victoria's Secret show was held on Valentine's Day to promote the brand on the special date. What's more, the first show took place at the Plaza Hotel in New York in 1995, and now the global event AIRS just before the Christmas holidays with a lot of fanfare. The previously relatively modest lingerie suits, halter dresses and cardigans on the runway have been replaced by the famous angel wings, diamond-encrusted "fantasy bras" and top performers.

From New York to Shanghai, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show witnessed a series of unexpected moments: some funny, some tense, and some thrilling. Below, we've compiled for you some of the most popular clips of all time.

The debut of angel wings

Tyra Banks walks in one of the first wings at the 1998 Victoria's Secret runway show.

First grand meeting

The first big show wasn't flashy, but the fifth annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in 1999 landed flying angels in a magical forest, setting a precedent for future showy shows.

Gisele Bundchen's backstage snacks

In 2002, the original Victoria's Secret Angel, wearing only a robe, stunned photographers by gobbling up pizza backstage. What better way to warm up for the show?

Peta protested

When Bundchen walked the runway in 2002, PETA demonstrators stormed the stage to oppose the use of fur. Victoria's Secret is now a fur-free brand.

The biggest angel wings ever

In 2003, Heidi Klum wore what may be the largest wings in Victoria's Secret history, which were encrusted with gold and made from ostrich feathers.

Spice up the runway

In 2007, the Spice Girls (including Victoria Beckham) stole the show and launched their reunion tour.

Karlie's controversial headwear

A Native American headpiece worn by Karlie Kloss on the runway in 2012 caused a huge controversy, with many accusing the American lingerie brand of cultural appropriation.

A collision between Ariana Grande and an angel

Social media captured the moment and expression of Ariana Grande, who was hit by Elsa Hosk's wing at the 2014 show.

Two sky-high fantasy bras

Another highlight of the 2014 show was two sky-high fantasy bras made it to the Victoria's Secret runway at the same time, performed by Adriana Lima and Alessandra Ambrosio. This is the first time a brand has broken with the tradition of presenting just one fantasy bra. Lima and Ambriosio's bras were worth $4 million at the time.

Lady Gaga's Angel moment

The "Born This Way" singer capped off her 2016 show with a self-created Victoria's Secret angel look, complete with impressive black wings.

Fashion shows come East

In 2017, Victoria's Secret held its first-ever Asian fashion show. While visa restrictions - most notably Gigi Hadid and Katy Perry - prevented some models and performers from traveling to Shanghai, the show featured local stars such as supermodel Xi Mengyao and singer Jane Zhang.

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