Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025: A New Era of Female Empowerment and Global Music Influence
The return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is more than just a runway spectacle; it’s a bellwether for cultural shifts in entertainment and brand messaging. Wednesday night’s event in New York City, headlined by Missy Elliott and featuring electrifying performances from Karol G, Madison Beer, and TWICE, signaled a decisive move towards celebrating female artistry – boasting an entirely female performance lineup for the second time in its history. But beyond the groundbreaking representation, the show offered a glimpse into the future of live event curation, where global music dominance and diverse cultural representation aren’t just add-ons, but core components of the experience.
The All-Female Lineup: A Paradigm Shift
For years, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show faced criticism for its narrow beauty standards and lack of inclusivity. The 2024 revival, featuring Cher, Tyla, and BLACKPINK’s Lisa, began to address these concerns. The 2025 show doubled down on this progress, making a powerful statement by showcasing only female performers. This isn’t simply about checking boxes; it’s a strategic response to evolving consumer values. A recent study by McKinsey demonstrates that companies with greater gender diversity are 25% more likely to achieve above-average profitability. Victoria’s Secret is clearly aligning its brand with this data-backed trend.
Missy Elliott’s Reign and the Power of Nostalgia
Missy Elliott’s headline performance was a masterclass in captivating a multi-generational audience. Her medley – “Minute Man,” “Get Ur Freak On,” “Work It,” and “Lose Control” – wasn’t just a trip down memory lane; it was a reminder of her enduring influence on music and fashion. Elliott’s innovative music videos and boundary-pushing style continue to inspire artists today. This strategic booking taps into the growing trend of nostalgia marketing, where brands leverage familiar cultural touchstones to connect with consumers on an emotional level. Expect to see more legacy artists taking center stage at major events in the coming years.
Karol G and the Rise of Latin Music on the Global Stage
Karol G’s performance was arguably the most culturally significant of the night. Performing “Ivonny Bonita” and “Latina Forever,” the Coachella 2026 headliner delivered a powerful shout-out to her Latin heritage, walking the runway to a standing ovation. This isn’t an isolated incident. Latin music is experiencing unprecedented global growth, driven by artists like Bad Bunny, Shakira, and J Balvin. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), Latin music revenue grew by 23% in 2022, outpacing all other genres. Victoria’s Secret’s embrace of Karol G signals a recognition of this market power and a commitment to representing diverse audiences.
Madison Beer and the Blurring Lines of Pop Stardom
Madison Beer’s set, featuring the live debut of “Bittersweet” alongside hits like “Make You Mine” and “Yes Baby,” highlighted the evolving landscape of pop stardom. Beer, who rose to prominence through social media, represents a new generation of artists who bypass traditional gatekeepers and connect directly with fans. This direct-to-consumer model is reshaping the music industry, giving artists greater control over their careers and fostering deeper engagement with their audiences. The inclusion of TWICE, a massively popular K-pop group, further underscores this trend towards globalized pop culture.
K-Pop’s Continued Influence
TWICE’s performance, following in the footsteps of BLACKPINK’s Lisa last year, demonstrates the growing influence of K-pop on the global stage. K-pop’s highly choreographed performances, visually stunning music videos, and dedicated fan bases make it a natural fit for a visually-driven event like the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. The genre’s ability to generate massive social media engagement also aligns with the brand’s marketing objectives.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Fashion Show Entertainment
The 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show wasn’t just about lingerie; it was about cultural relevance. The all-female lineup, coupled with the diverse musical acts, suggests a future where live events prioritize representation, authenticity, and global appeal. Brands will increasingly need to curate experiences that resonate with a wider range of audiences and reflect the values of a more inclusive world. Expect to see more collaborations between fashion houses and artists from diverse backgrounds, and a greater emphasis on using live events to tell compelling stories. What are your predictions for the future of fashion show entertainment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
