As the glitz and glamour of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion ended, the backlash seems to still persist. Victoria’s Secret chief marketing officer, Ed Razek in an interview with Vogue discussed the company’s casting of transgender and plus size models in their fashion show:
Please read this important message from Ed Razek, Chief Marketing Officer, L Brands (parent company of Victoria’s Secret). pic.twitter.com/CW8BztmOaM
— Victoria's Secret (@VictoriasSecret) November 10, 2018
In his interview, Razek incorrectly identified transgenders as “transexuals” and explains that the models did not fit the Victoria’s Secret “Fantasy”. After publicly apologizing on Twitter, many fans were quick to judge Razel while others sided with his decision.
In their tweets, Jo, Nay, and Rachel observe that Victoria’s Secret does include real women and fails to display the true version of beauty. Nay sees Victoria’s Secret as failing to accommodate to all body sizes.
Why are there no #VictoriasSecret models with Tattoos, scars, Afros, no hair, prosthetic limbs, not a size 00, piercings??? Like why do you only show played out “bombshell” fair skin BASIC beauty standards….. why not display all women, and show they are sexy too??
— Jo (@jourdinelexis) November 9, 2018
Thankfully I no longer have #VictoriasSecret bras anymore. Also, Bath & Body Works is an L Brand. VS is an L Brand.
So who are you supporting and who aren’t you supporting?
— 👑 (@i_amNay) November 11, 2018
How is this show is still running?! It goes against everything we are fighting to change. The transgender ‘comment’ is not just a comment it’s clearly their belief. Their idea of ‘Fantasy’ seriously needs a review…#victoriasecret https://t.co/6d49zWXo0e
— Rachel Kerr-Oliveira (@ChangingFields) November 10, 2018
Unlike both contrasting tweets, models like Winnie Harlow see Victoria’s Secret as adapting to diverse women. Born with vitiligo, she sees herself as a breakthrough for women with skin conditions. Others like ViccyQ and Natalie feel if Victoria’s Secret isn’t accommodating for you, then you can shop at other stores. Natalie feels it is their brand and their decision.
Models say the fashion industry is working hard on diversity. @CityNatalie reports https://t.co/OCf4v0NbFt #VictoriasSecret
— CBS New York (@CBSNewYork) November 9, 2018
Like you are the only person who belongs to a group who has been discriminated against. Seriously, stop the tears. I don't let clothing companies dictate how I feel or wear. You're begging #victoriassecret to make clothes for you when there are other companies. Weak.
— ViccyQ (@ViccyQ) November 11, 2018
Everyone getting offended at Victoria’s Secret…ok so we shall start letting size 6 models work for plus sized firms shall we? Thought not. It’s their brand and they have the look they want for their brand! Get over it! @VictoriasSecret #victoriassecret
— NatalieD (@NDD12470003) November 20, 2018
Both the supporting and contrasting views represent the pull for change versus no change in the fashion world following the trending #victoriassecret.
Interesting angle on a very relevant topic. This should get more media attention