Supermodel Gigi Hadid has emotionally opened up about the body shaming she endured after her 2015 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show debut, as she announces her return for the 2025 edition. In a poignant social media post, Hadid, now 30, reflected on the harsh criticism she faced for being “too curvy,” despite her athletic build, saying, “The world was so hard on her.” This comes amid Victoria’s Secret’s ongoing efforts to revamp its image following a hiatus and controversies.
“The world was so hard on her,” Gigi Hadid emotionally shares, as she reveals her return to the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and reacts to negative criticism for her 2015 debuthttps://t.co/shrOmBeVN7
— TooFab (@TooFab) October 10, 2025
Hadid’s debut in 2015 sparked backlash, with critics claiming she didn’t embody the brand’s traditional ultra-slim “Angel” aesthetic. Drawing from her volleyball background, Hadid defended her figure at the time, stating she represented a body type previously underrepresented in high fashion. A decade later, revisiting those moments brought her to tears, underscoring the lasting impact of public scrutiny on mental health.
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was canceled in 2019 due to declining viewership and criticisms over promoting unrealistic body standards, lack of diversity, transphobia allegations, and connections to Jeffrey Epstein. Its 2024 revival aimed for inclusivity, featuring diverse models like Tyra Banks, Devyn Garcia, and Hadid herself, but faced mixed reviews. Some praised the progress, while others criticized “fake” crowd noise, sloppy production, and the inclusion of figures like Banks, accused of body shaming on America’s Next Top Model.
These issues highlight deeper problems in the fashion industry. Studies show that exposure to idealized images, such as those in the Victoria’s Secret show, increases body dissatisfaction among viewers. A 2013 analysis of Twitter reactions during the show revealed pervasive body shaming comments, often targeting models’ appearances and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Hadid’s return symbolizes a shift toward empowerment, but skeptics question whether the brand can fully escape its problematic legacy. Her story serves as a reminder of the personal costs behind the glamour, encouraging broader discussions on body positivity and mental health in fashion.
As the 2025 show approaches on October 15, Hadid’s candid reflection may inspire change, proving that even supermodels are vulnerable to societal pressures. Her resilience continues to resonate with fans worldwide, fostering hope for a more inclusive industry.
