As a Plus-Size Woman, Here Are Four Suggestions for the New Victoria's Secret

Hey Vickie—can I call you that? It feels more casual and friendly than saying “Victoria’s Secret.” So, Vickie, I’ve been following your major rebranding efforts, and as a plus-size woman, I’m genuinely thrilled about the changes.

To be honest, your store hasn’t always been welcoming for people like me. When I say “people like me,” I’m not just referring to plus-size individuals. I mean everyone who doesn’t fit the narrow cultural standards of desirability that tend to favor straight men. This includes fat women, trans women, non-binary folks, and individuals with disabilities—essentially, those of us who would never have made it as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, regardless of how beautiful we know we are.

I’ve visited your stores a few times, mostly to grab perfume or lotion. I fondly remember a lip gloss you once offered—I wish it was still available! While I’ve shopped with my thinner friends throughout my teenage years, finding underwear that fits my body has always been a challenge. Thankfully, the options in the plus-size category have improved recently, but there’s still a long way to go.

When I heard about your rebranding, my first thought was, “Finally!” I love that you’re moving away from the Angels and involving a diverse group of women to help shape the future of Victoria’s Secret. However, as much as I adore Paloma Elsesser, I think it’s essential to include models larger than a size 14 in this conversation. So if you’re looking for more input, feel free to reach out!

I’m looking forward to seeing what the new fashion show will look like in 2022. Still, I can’t shake the feeling that this might be a case of “too little, too late.” I sense your team is aware of this, which is why I’m watching closely rather than feeling anxious.

As a fat person, I want to express my frustration over how your Angels and fashion shows contributed to a culture that made my younger years quite difficult. Although I don’t need your brand—there are plenty of companies out there that prioritize inclusive sizing, diverse representation, and challenge patriarchal norms—I still find myself hopeful.

Imagine a world where I, a plus-size nursing mom, can walk into Victoria’s Secret with my non-binary friend, my post-mastectomy friend, and my straight-sized friend, and all of us can find something that fits comfortably. That’s a dream worth pursuing.

Here are my suggestions for your new and improved spaces:

Make “inclusive sizing” genuinely meaningful.
Have you heard of Savage X Fenty? Founded by Rihanna, they offer sizes XS through 3X. I’d love to see Victoria’s Secret expand its range—add more sizes, perhaps even a 4X or 5X available in-store! Online shopping is convenient, but nothing beats trying on clothes in person.
Feature models who reflect our diversity.
Let’s see real people on your runway! Use models of all sizes, including those with disabilities and different gender identities. Everyone deserves to see themselves represented in your catalogs.
Offer styles that aren’t overly feminine.
Not everyone with breasts identifies as a woman, and many people of various genders want bra options that prioritize comfort over style. Keep this in mind and broaden your marketing approach.
Redefine sexy without discarding it.
I hope your rebranding doesn’t mean abandoning the concept of sexy. I want to shop at a place where I can feel glamorous and confident. It’s essential that all body types are represented in this space.

I truly hope your rebranding signifies a welcoming change for those who have felt excluded in the past. I don’t want Victoria’s Secret to become reminiscent of the outdated JCPenney lingerie department. Instead, I envision a store that embraces all bodies and enters the modern era.

For more insights, check out this post on home insemination kits. If you’re looking for authoritative information on self insemination, visit Make a Mom. Additionally, the NICHD offers excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.

Potential Search Queries:

Summary:

In light of Victoria’s Secret’s rebranding, a plus-size woman offers suggestions for more inclusive sizing, diverse representation, and a broader understanding of what sexy means. The goal is to create a shopping experience that embraces all bodies and breaks away from traditional beauty standards.