Gigi Hadid is embracing her status as a Victoria’s Secret “Angel.”
The 30-year-old model expressed her enthusiasm about returning for the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, set for October 15, through an Instagram video posted on the brand’s page on October 10. During behind-the-scenes moments captured at her fitting, Hadid reflected on her first runway experience in 2015 and the criticism she encountered afterward.
“I auditioned multiple times before I finally made it, so you can imagine how I felt when I got my first show. Oh my God, just thinking about it sends my heart racing!” she shared, emotionally reminiscing about her journey and her younger self’s ambitions.
With tears in her eyes, she added, “I was looking back at photos from that time, and I realized how harshly the world treated her — not just me, but it’s tough for so many girls. But seeing those pictures, I affirm that I deserved my place there.”
Following her debut appearance, Hadid responded to the critiques regarding her body type on Instagram.
“I may not share the same physique as other models. I might not consider myself the best at each show, and while I aim to develop a unique runway walk, I acknowledge the need for improvement. I’m not the first or the last model of my kind in this field,” she stated during that time.
“People create all sorts of theories about why I’m where I am, but at the end of the day, I’m just a hardworking individual with confidence, and I entered the industry at a time when change was overdue. I’m simply fulfilling my role. I represent a body type that wasn’t historically embraced in high fashion, and I feel fortunate to have the support of designers, stylists, and editors who understand that fashion is art, and it can evolve continually.”
She emphasized, “Yes, I have curves — I have breasts, abs, a backside, and thighs — but I’m not seeking special treatment. I fit into the sample sizes available to me.”
“Your negative comments don’t compel me to alter my body, they don’t deter me from accepting offers to walk in shows, and they certainly don’t modify designers’ views of me,” Hadid remarked. “If they want me in their show, I’ll be there; if not, then I won’t be involved.”
During her fitting session, Hadid expressed her happiness for the girl who landed that first show and for her younger self who admired the models showcasing lingerie adorned with iconic angel wings.
“The Victoria’s Secret show continues to make my heart race,” she exclaimed. “With every show, I feel like I become a new version of myself. I’ve always found inspiration in VS; it’s not merely about lingerie and looking sultry.”
“Did you really think this year’s show would happen without @gigihadid? This is a full-circle moment for all dreamers of wearing wings,” the brand wrote in their post. Fans quickly shared their excitement about Hadid’s return in the comments.
“Welcome back, Gigi!!! You absolutely deserve this 🥹💖,” one fan commented, while another exclaimed, “You resemble a living Barbie ❤️.” A third follower remarked, “Welcome back, Queen Gigi 🩷🪽.”
In the previous year’s 2024 show, Hadid showcased a stunning bubblegum silk romper with a daring plunging neckline and tailored shorts, complemented by dramatic mechanical wings that added flair to her runway presence.
