Angel Reese, embodying the spirit of many Gen Z women, fondly recalls shopping at Victoria’s Secret, admiring the stunning images of the brand’s angels looming over displays of their celebrated Bombshell bras. “I regularly watched the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and dreamed of possibly becoming a model someday,” shares the Chicago Sky forward with Vogue. Just last year, she graced the show as an attendee and later asserted on her Instagram story, “I’m destined to be a Victoria’s Secret model one day.” Today, her dream takes flight as she makes her runway debut, becoming part of an iconic group of athletes to walk the prestigious show.
“I have a video from my childhood, where I’m dancing in Victoria’s Secret sweatpants and a hoodie,” Reese reflects the day before the show. “This is truly a full-circle moment for me.”
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
Reese grew up captivated by America’s Next Top Model, particularly inspired by Tyra Banks, a former Angel. “I admire Tyra Banks. She reflects my essence—her poise and the way she commands the spotlight,” Reese comments. Thus, it’s no surprise that Banks, along with other renowned supermodels, influenced Reese’s own runway approach.
“I’ve studied a lot from Tyra, as well as from Naomi and Adriana Lima,” she shares regarding her preparations for the runway. While she recognizes that each of these icons possesses a distinct walk, she’s attentive to the minute details that differentiate them. “Tyra has a delightful bounce; Naomi carries a more fierce presence. I’m not copying their exact styles but focusing on nuances—like gestures and mannerisms, such as a signature smize.”
Armed with confidence, Reese has also enlisted the assistance of a runway coach to gear up for this significant occasion. “He’s actually retired but came back just for me,” she says. His key piece of advice? “Be confident, be authentic, enjoy the moment. Always remember, you’re that girl. Embrace it.”
