Angel Reese made history as the first professional athlete to walk the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. The WNBA star fulfilled her lifelong dream on October 15, 2025, in New York City. Her debut showcased confidence, authenticity, and undeniable star power on the iconic runway.
Victoria’s Secret announced Reese as an Angel last week, sparking important conversations about representation. Some critics questioned whether athletes belonged in the traditionally model-dominated show. However, the brand’s new creative direction embraces diverse definitions of beauty and empowerment.
Victoria’s Secret Redefines Sexy Under New Creative Leadership
Adam Selman, Victoria’s Secret’s new creative director, champions inclusive representation. “I’m trying to show a range,” Selman told Nicole Phelps on The Run-Through With Vogue podcast. He rejects the idea of dictating what sexy should look like.
“It’s less about dictating what sexy is or what sexy needs to be or this sort of ideal,” Selman explained. He wants to recontextualize experiences like bra fittings as fun rather than intimidating. This philosophy marks a significant departure from the brand’s controversial 2010s image.
Breaking Free from Outdated Beauty Standards
Discourse around Reese’s wings revealed how stuck in outdated thinking some viewers remain. Critics exposed their limited understanding of who deserves to be celebrated. These opinions clash directly with Victoria’s Secret’s evolved mission and values.
The lingerie brand now gives wings to Angels representing multiple types of women. This shift acknowledges that beauty, confidence, and sex appeal exist across different body types, professions, and backgrounds. Reese’s selection demonstrates this commitment to meaningful change rather than performative gestures.
From America’s Next Top Model Fan to Victoria’s Secret Angel
Reese grew up watching America’s Next Top Model and dreaming of runway moments. At last year’s Victoria’s Secret show, she admitted publicly how much she wanted to become an Angel. Her childhood aspirations finally materialized on the 2025 runway.
The athlete walked alongside pregnant Jasmine Tookes, who opened the entire show. Newcomer Quenlin Blackwell and bombshell models like Paloma Elsesser and Precious Lee joined the lineup. This diverse cast represented the brand’s new era of inclusive beauty standards.
Sleek Black Blowout Transforms into Bombshell Moment
Reese’s beauty look captured attention with its dramatic transformation. Her sleek black blowout was wrapped in XL hair rollers backstage. The preparation built anticipation for her big bombshell reveal on the catwalk.
Her wings perfectly framed her bouncing, mid-waist bouffant hairstyle as she walked. She took a confident spin in the middle of her walk, showcasing the hair’s movement. The styling emphasized her height, athleticism, and natural grace under the runway lights.
Sculpted Makeup Highlighted Natural Features
Professional makeup artists enhanced Reese’s prominent cheekbones with strategic blush application. The sculpting technique lifted her facial structure while maintaining a natural appearance. A kiss of smokey shadow gathered at her outer eye, reaching toward her chiseled brows.
The makeup balanced glamour with authenticity, allowing Reese’s personality to shine through. Her natural beauty complemented rather than competed with the theatrical elements. The overall effect created a polished yet approachable aesthetic that resonated with viewers.
Authentic Confidence Radiated Throughout Performance
Reese’s strut appeared as natural as her athletic movements on the basketball court. She carried herself with the same confidence that makes her a dominant WNBA player. Her authenticity made the runway moment feel genuine rather than forced or uncomfortable.
She glowed throughout her walk, clearly savoring every second of the experience. The joy on her face told the story of a dream fulfilled. Viewers witnessed an athlete stepping into a new arena with the same commanding presence she brings to sports.
Angel Gets Her Wings at Last
Reese’s name carries prophetic significance given her Victoria’s Secret achievement. “Her name is Angel for good reason, as she finally got her wings,” observers noted. The poetic alignment between her name and accomplishment wasn’t lost on fans celebrating the moment.
Her debut represents more than personal achievement—it symbolizes progress for representation in fashion. Athletes, particularly Black women athletes, rarely receive opportunities in high-fashion spaces. Reese’s success opens doors for others who don’t fit traditional modeling molds but deserve celebration nonetheless.
