As a Plus-Size Woman, Here Are Four Ideas for the ‘New’ Victoria’s Secret

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Hey Vickie—mind if I call you that? “Victoria’s Secret” feels a bit formal for a casual chat between friends. So, Vickie it is! I’ve been following your recent rebranding efforts, and as a plus-size woman, I’m genuinely excited about the direction you’re headed.

Let’s be real: your stores have historically been a letdown for folks like me. And by “folks like me,” I mean not just plus-size women, but anyone who doesn’t fit the narrow cultural definition of desirability. This includes trans women, non-binary individuals, and those with diverse abilities—basically anyone who wouldn’t have made the cut as a VS Angel, no matter how stunning we believe we are.

I’ve stepped into your stores a few times, primarily to grab perfumes and lotions. I remember being obsessed with a lip gloss you once made, and I wish it were still around. While I’ve visited your stores with my slender friends countless times, when it came to finding underwear for my curvy figure or supportive bras, I often had to look elsewhere. Thankfully, the plus-size options have improved, but there’s still a long way to go.

When I heard you were rebranding, my initial thought was, “Finally!” I love that you’re moving away from the Angels to feature a collective of women who can provide genuine insight into what real people want from a revamped Victoria’s Secret. However, I believe it’s essential to include someone larger than a size 14 in your consultations—if you need more input, feel free to reach out!

While I’m hopeful, I can’t shake the feeling that this might be a case of “too little, too late.” I sense your organization is aware of this, which is why I’m watching your rebranding unfold with curiosity instead of skepticism.

As a plus-size person, I could easily feel frustrated with how your past marketing contributed to the anti-fat culture that plagued my youth. But despite that, I can’t help but feel a spark of excitement. Imagine a world where I, a plus-size nursing mom, can walk into a Victoria’s Secret with my non-binary friend, my post-surgery friend, and my straight-sized friend, all leaving with something that fits comfortably? That’s a dream scenario.

Seventeen-year-old me longed to carry a Victoria’s Secret bag instead of a plain old JC Penney one. Now, at thirty-six, that desire still lingers.

If you’re open to suggestions from everyday folks like me, here are a few things I’d love to see in your revamped stores:

1. Truly Inclusive Sizing: Have you heard of Savage X Fenty? Founded by Rihanna, they offer sizes XS to 3X. I’d love to see Victoria’s Secret expand its range to include 4X and even 5X—available in-store! Online shopping is fine, but nothing beats trying on clothes in person.
2. Real Representation: Let’s showcase models who reflect the diversity of your customer base. Include models of all sizes, from petite to plus-size, as well as trans women, non-binary individuals, and those with disabilities. Real bodies need bras and underwear too!
3. Beyond “Girly” Options: Not everyone with breasts identifies as a woman, and not every woman has breasts. It’s crucial to offer styles that cater to a variety of needs and preferences. Consult with those who can provide insight into what works best for them.
4. Redefining Sexy: I hope your rebranding doesn’t mean abandoning the concept of sexy. I still want a place to find alluring items that make me feel confident and empowered. I just hope to share that space with a broader range of women who look like me.

Ultimately, I want to see your rebranding open doors for shoppers who have historically been excluded. I don’t want Victoria’s Secret to become a throwback to the uninspired lingerie department of the past. I hope you’re headed in the direction I envision!

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In summary, I’m looking forward to seeing how Victoria’s Secret evolves, especially in terms of inclusivity and representation. I hope your efforts lead to a brand that welcomes everyone and reflects a true diversity of bodies.