Venom Queen / Sonia Barbie Tucker

 

Sonia Barbie Tucker

Venom Queen / The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show

 

THE VICTORIA’S SECRET FASHION SHOW

The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, a hallmark of global runway spectacles, returned in 2025 with breathtaking energy, showcasing the evolution of fashion, glamour, and brand legacy. Since its inception in 1995, the show has become a symbol of high-profile modeling, combining cutting-edge design with theatrical presentation. This year’s event, held in New York City circa late September, featured top models from around the world, seamlessly blending iconic Victoria’s Secret Angels with emerging talent, capturing the attention of fashion enthusiasts and media outlets alike. Designers, stylists, and creative directors collaborated to create visually stunning segments that highlighted couture lingerie, elaborate wings, and intricate accessories, demonstrating the meticulous artistry behind the show.

Venom Queen / Barbara Palvin

 

BARBARA PALVIN

Barbara Palvin, born in Budapest, Hungary, in 1993, rose from the streets of her hometown to the luminous stages of international fashion. Discovered at the age of thirteen while walking with her mother, her natural beauty and captivating blue eyes quickly drew attention across Europe. By 2008, she had already signed with IMG Models, making her Paris Fashion Week debut for Prada at just sixteen. This marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey through the elite corridors of high fashion, where she modeled for global powerhouses including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, and Miu Miu. Her combination of youthful innocence and timeless allure redefined the standard of modern beauty in the fashion world.

Venom Queen / Candice Swanepoel ll

 

CANDICE SWANEPOEL II

Candice Swanepoel, born on October 20, 1988, in Mooi River, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, emerged as one of the most recognizable faces in modern fashion history. Her journey began when she was discovered at a local flea market at the age of fifteen, leading to an extraordinary career that bridged continents and cultures. By the late 2000s, she had captivated the international fashion scene, gracing the runways of Milan, Paris, and New York for brands such as Fendi, Dolce & Gabbana, and Givenchy. Her ethereal beauty, defined by piercing blue eyes and golden hair, quickly established her as the embodiment of elegance and allure in the modeling world.

Venom Queen / Candice Swanepoel l

 

CANDICE SWANEPOEL

Candice Swanepoel, born in Mooi River, South Africa, on October 20, 1988, rose from rural beginnings to become one of the most recognizable supermodels of her generation. Discovered at a Durban flea market circa 2003, her journey from a small farming town to the world’s top fashion capitals reflected not just beauty but resilience and ambition. By the late 2000s, she had become a central figure in New York’s high-fashion scene, walking for global houses such as Fendi, Dolce & Gabbana, and Givenchy. Her collaboration with Victoria’s Secret began in 2007, marking the start of an illustrious chapter that would define her legacy as one of the most iconic Angels in the brand’s history.

Candice Swanepoel and Behati Prinsloo

 Candice Swanepoel and Behati Prinsloo

Venom Queen / Candice Swanepoel

 

CANDICE SWANEPOEL

Candice Swanepoel, born circa 1988 in Mooi River, South Africa, rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most iconic figures in the world of high fashion and modeling. Discovered as a teenager, her career took off circa 2003 when she moved to Europe to pursue modeling full-time. By 2007, Swanepoel was walking major runways and gracing international magazine covers, quickly gaining recognition for her ethereal beauty, striking features, and signature blonde hair. Her South African roots brought a unique global appeal, bridging diverse fashion capitals such as Paris, Milan, and New York City, where she made a lasting impact in the competitive world of luxury fashion.

Venom Queen / Alessandra Ambrosio

ALESSANDRA AMBROSIO

Alessandra Ambrosio’s legacy as one of Victoria’s Secret’s most iconic Angels began in the early 2000s, firmly establishing her as a defining figure in the world of fashion and modeling. Born in 1981 in Erechim, Brazil, Alessandra’s journey to supermodel status began when she was just a teenager, entering local modeling contests circa 1996 before catching the eye of international scouts. By 2000, she was walking the runway for Victoria’s Secret, quickly ascending to the coveted title of Angel in 2004. Her signature runway walk, poised elegance, and charismatic presence made her a favorite not only among designers but also millions of fans worldwide. Her role in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show became a yearly highlight, symbolizing the blend of high fashion glamour with accessible sensuality.

Venom Queen / Barbara Palvin

 

BARBARA PALVIN

Barbara Palvin, born October 8, 1993, in Budapest, Hungary, quickly ascended from a promising newcomer to an established Victoria’s Secret Angel, captivating the fashion world with her striking beauty and relatable charm. Circa 2012, Palvin began gaining international attention through her work with renowned designers and brands across Europe, before her breakthrough came with the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. By 2018, she had secured her status as a key figure within the VS family, appearing alongside legendary Angels such as Adriana Lima and Candice Swanepoel. Her presence at VSFS castings became highly anticipated, reflecting her growing influence and the brand’s commitment to embracing fresh, diverse talent.

Daniel Jackson / Natasha Poly

Natasha Poly

by Daniel Jackson

Harper’s Bazaar US September 2014
Photographer: Daniel Jackson
Stylist: Clare Richardson
Model: Natasha Poly

Venom Queen / The Victoria’s Secret Fantasy Bra

 

THE VICTORIA’S SECRET FANTASY BRA

The Victoria’s Secret Fantasy Bra has long been the pinnacle of luxury and glamour within the fashion world, captivating audiences with its breathtaking craftsmanship and celebrity allure. Circa 1996, the first Fantasy Bra was introduced, worn by model Stephanie Seymour and valued at $1 million. This groundbreaking moment set the stage for what would become an annual tradition, showcasing extravagantly designed bras adorned with precious gems like diamonds, rubies, and sapphires. Over the decades, the Fantasy Bra has become a symbol of opulence, worn by legendary Angels such as Gisele Bündchen, Heidi Klum, and Adriana Lima during the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows held in iconic locations including New York City, London, and Shanghai.

Each Fantasy Bra carries a unique story, reflecting the creativity and vision of master jewelers and designers. Circa 2005, Heidi Klum stunned audiences with the $12.5 million “Heavenly Star” bra, encrusted with diamonds, sapphires, and rubies, showcasing an extraordinary level of artistry and detail. These pieces are not just lingerie but wearable art, blending fashion and fine jewelry in a way that epitomizes Victoria’s Secret’s lavish aesthetic. The selection of the model to wear the Fantasy Bra is a coveted honor, symbolizing her status as a leading figure within the brand and the fashion industry at large. This tradition continues to generate excitement and anticipation each year, as fans debate which bra they would choose to wear.

As the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show evolves, the Fantasy Bra remains a timeless highlight, representing both innovation and heritage. Whether opting for a classic diamond-studded design or a bold, colorful gemstone creation, the Fantasy Bra symbolizes the fusion of glamour, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to inspire dreams of luxury and elegance, captivating generations of fashion enthusiasts around the world. This iconic piece continues to define the mystique and allure of Victoria’s Secret’s runway legacy.

Venom Queen / Hailey Bieber

 

HAILEY BIEBER

Hailey Bieber, born Hailey Rhode Baldwin on November 22, 1996, in Tucson, Arizona, is a prominent figure in contemporary fashion and entertainment. Emerging from a family deeply rooted in the arts and modeling—her father, Stephen Baldwin, being part of the famed Baldwin acting dynasty—Hailey’s path into modeling began circa 2014 when she signed with IMG Models. Her early career was marked by campaigns for major brands like Ralph Lauren and Guess, establishing her as a fresh face with a distinct blend of elegance and youthful energy. By 2016, Hailey was walking the runway at New York Fashion Week and gaining international attention, showcasing collections for designers such as Tommy Hilfiger and Dolce & Gabbana.

Venom Queen / The icon pinup model style

 

PINUP

The iconic pinup model style, synonymous with glamour and allure, emerged prominently during the 1940s, captivating America and the world amidst the backdrop of World War II. Circa 1940, artists like Alberto Vargas and Gil Elvgren popularized the pinup girl through magazines, calendars, and posters, creating timeless images of women in playful, often suggestive poses, typically wearing minidresses, high heels, and showcasing toned, long legs. These images became symbols of hope and morale for soldiers overseas, reflecting an idealized femininity blending strength and sensuality. The pinup aesthetic was not merely about beauty but celebrated fitness and confidence, which resonated deeply in an era of uncertainty and change.

Venom Queen / Miranda Kerr

 

MIRANDA KERR

Miranda Kerr, born in 1983 in Sydney, Australia, emerged as one of the most influential supermodels of the early 21st century, carving a distinct path in the global fashion industry. Circa 2007, she gained international acclaim when she became the first Australian Victoria’s Secret Angel, marking a significant milestone for both her career and the brand’s expanding global reach. Her youthful charm, radiant smile, and graceful runway presence quickly made her a fan favorite. By the time of the 2016 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show held in Paris, France—only the second time the show was hosted outside the United States—Miranda Kerr was affectionately dubbed “Baby Miranda” backstage, a term reflecting both her enduring youthful spirit and her cherished place among the Angels. This Parisian event was emblematic of Victoria’s Secret’s efforts to globalize its brand while showcasing its roster of diverse and talented models.

Venom Queen / Candice Swanepoel

 

CANDICE SWANEPOEL

In 2012, Candice Swanepoel solidified her status as one of the premier Victoria’s Secret Angels during the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show held at the Lexington Avenue Armory in New York City. Born in South Africa in 1988, Swanepoel’s rise to international fame was marked by her graceful runway presence and striking beauty, emblematic of the brand’s signature blend of glamour and sensuality. Circa 2012, she became renowned for her ability to embody both ethereal elegance and bold confidence, captivating audiences worldwide with her exquisite outfits, including the iconic Fantasy Bra segment, which has historically symbolized the pinnacle of Victoria’s Secret artistry and luxury.

Venom Queen / Adriana Lima

 

ADRIANA LIMA

Adriana Lima, one of Victoria’s Secret’s most celebrated angels, made a stunning statement during the 2010 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, held in New York City. Circa 2010, Lima was chosen to wear the coveted Fantasy Bra, an honor reserved for the brand’s top models, symbolizing glamour and exclusivity. Crafted by London-based jeweler Damiani, the Fantasy Bra that year was valued at an astounding $2.5 million and featured over 3,000 precious gemstones, including diamonds, yellow sapphires, and canary diamonds. Adriana’s flawless runway presence and timeless beauty perfectly complemented this breathtaking creation, making her segment one of the most memorable moments of the evening and solidifying her status as a Victoria’s Secret icon.

Venom Queen / Kate Upton

 

KATE UPTON

Kate Upton, born in St. Joseph, Michigan in 1992 and raised in Melbourne, Florida, entered the modeling world with unmistakable charisma and all-American appeal. After signing with Elite Model Management in Miami around 2008, she swiftly caught the attention of IMG Models in New York, marking the beginning of a career defined by crossover fame. Her breakthrough moment came in 2011 when she graced the pages of Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue, filmed in the Philippines. That same year, a viral video of her dancing to the "Dougie" at a Los Angeles Clippers game launched her into mainstream pop culture. With her natural curves and radiant confidence, Upton redefined beauty standards for a new generation.

By 2012, Kate had become a household name, earning the coveted cover of Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue and appearing in campaigns for Guess, Beach Bunny Swimwear, and Dooney & Bourke. Her follow-up cover in 2013, shot in Antarctica under subzero conditions, displayed her resilience and elevated her from model to global sensation. That same period saw her starring in high-profile editorials for Vogue, GQ, and Vanity Fair, with Anna Wintour noting her ability to bridge commercial and high fashion with poise. Upton’s transition to acting followed naturally, landing roles in films like The Other Woman (2014) alongside Cameron Diaz and Leslie Mann, where her comedic timing and screen presence proved she was more than a magazine cover.

Kate’s rise was also rooted in substance and savvy. She spoke out against over-retouching and championed body positivity during an era obsessed with hyper-perfection. Around 2017, she married Houston Astros pitcher Justin Verlander, solidifying a sports-entertainment power couple based in Beverly Hills and Palm Beach. From iconic swimsuit covers to red-carpet elegance, Kate Upton remains a symbol of empowerment and enduring beauty in fashion and film, influencing both industries with her authenticity and modern glamour.

 

Betty Brosmer, “the Most Gorgeous Body of 50s”

Beauty queen of 1950s Betty Brosmer started her model career at the age of 13. The result was more than impressive – she has won over 50 beauty contests, has appeared on magazine covers more than 300 times, her image decorated more than a hundred calendars, billboards across the country, and she was the highest paid model. She was a forerunner of such stars as Marilyn Monroe and Jayne Mansfield. Her phenomenal measurements: 38-18-36 (in inches) and 96-45-91 in centimeters gave her the title “The most gorgeous body of 50s”.

Veruschka, Richard Avedon & Polly Mellen
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Veruschka in perhaps the Most Epic Fashion Story

In 1966 Vogue did something extraordinary: a team was to Japan in the middle of winter to shoot perhaps the most epic fashion story of all time. The editorial was pre- PETA and it was dedicated to the beauty of furs. 

The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin

 

 

The Swans of Fifth Avenue

January 25, 2016

The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin
Published by Delacorte Press
Publication date: January 26th 2016

Once upon a time there was a group of very special women who lived in New York City. They were icons of fashion and social arbiters of everything that was right about high society. It was the 1950s and they were Babe Paley, Slim Keith, Gloria Guinness, Pamela Churchill, and Marella Agnelli and they were The Swans of Fifth Avenue. So named by the small, witty, flamboyantly gay author who entered their midst and proceeded to enchant and amuse them. He was Truman Capote and they were his flock. In this deliciously dishy novel author Melanie Benjamin follows the outrageous Capote from the time he makes the acquaintance of this privileged group of socialites until he pulls back the curtain on the fantasy of their lives with the publication of a short story that detailed their not-so-pristine secrets.