Emily Ratajkowski Shocks With First Victoria's Secret Walk at 34
Emily Ratajkowski, 2018. Photo courtesy of Drifta Beatz under CC BY-SA 2.0.
Emily Ratajkowski finally took her long-awaited walk down the runway at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2025 in New York, delivering a moment that felt both triumphant and surreal. At 34 years old, the model and author stepped into the spotlight wearing a breathtaking orchid-winged lingerie set, marking her debut in the iconic show that has long been a symbol of glamour and fantasy. This was no ordinary runway appearance. It was a full-circle moment for Ratajkowski, who had been part of the Victoria's Secret family for years but had never before graced the legendary catwalk.
The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show itself made a much-anticipated return this year after a hiatus, bringing with it a revamped roster of models and celebrities. Ratajkowski's debut was a highlight, placing her alongside supermodel icons like Gigi and Bella Hadid, Adriana Lima, and Candice Swanepoel. The show's revival has been about blending the brand's storied past with a fresh, inclusive vision, and Ratajkowski's presence perfectly embodied that balance.
A Dream Realized on the Runway
For years, Emily Ratajkowski had been a familiar face in Victoria's Secret campaigns, including the brand's 2023 Icon Campaign, but the runway remained elusive. Her first live walk was nothing short of spectacular. She wore a lingerie set described as pale purple with a dramatic three-dimensional orchid blossom that replaced the traditional wings. The crystal-embellished petals sparkled under the lights, complemented by matching opera-length gloves and bedazzled over-the-knee lace-up heels that added to the drama of her entrance.
Despite being a first-timer on the runway, Ratajkowski carried herself with the confidence and poise of a seasoned veteran. Her 5-foot-7 frame commanded attention as she moved gracefully through the blossom-themed segment of the show. The moment was electric, a testament to her evolution from campaign model to full-fledged Victoria's Secret Angel in the eyes of fans and industry insiders alike.
Why Now? The Intrigue Behind the Timing
The question on many lips was why it took until 2025 and age 34 for Ratajkowski to make her runway debut, especially after years of association with the brand. The answer lies partly in the brand's own transformation. Victoria's Secret has been reimagining itself, moving away from the narrow beauty standards of the past and embracing a more diverse and empowered roster of models. Ratajkowski's debut aligns with this new era, where experience, personality, and a broader definition of beauty are celebrated.
Moreover, Ratajkowski herself has grown into a multifaceted public figure. Beyond modeling, she is an author and outspoken advocate for women's rights and body positivity. Her journey reflects a modern woman who balances glamour with intellect and activism. This runway debut was not just a fashion moment but a cultural statement, signaling that Victoria's Secret is evolving alongside the women it represents.
Joining a Star-Studded Lineup
Ratajkowski was in stellar company. The show featured a mix of Victoria's Secret veterans and fresh faces, including basketball star Angel Reese and Olympic gymnast Suni Lee, who made history as the first athletes to walk the runway. The presence of such diverse talent underscored the brand's commitment to inclusivity and breaking new ground.
Walking alongside supermodels like Gigi and Bella Hadid, Adriana Lima, and Candice Swanepoel, Ratajkowski's debut was a symbolic passing of the torch. These women have defined the brand's image for decades, and now Ratajkowski is stepping into that legacy, bringing her own unique flair and voice to the stage.
The Show's Return and What It Means
The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show's return in 2025 was a major event in the fashion world. After years of criticism and declining viewership, the brand took a bold step to reinvent itself. The show's comeback was about more than just lingerie; it was a celebration of empowerment, diversity, and artistry.
Ratajkowski's debut was a highlight of this new chapter. Her orchid-winged ensemble was not only visually stunning but also a metaphor for blossoming into a new era. The show's production, the lineup, and the energy all pointed to a brand ready to reclaim its place in the cultural conversation, but on its own terms.
A Moment to Celebrate
For fans and fashion insiders, Emily Ratajkowski's first Victoria's Secret runway walk was a moment of pure delight. It was a long-awaited milestone that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Watching her take flight with those orchid wings was a reminder of the power of perseverance and reinvention.
This is just the beginning of a new chapter for Emily Ratajkowski and Victoria's Secret. The runway is hers to conquer.
References: Emily Ratajkowski makes her Victoria's Secret Fashion Show runway debut | Emily Ratajkowski at Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2025
