See 16 Vintage Photos from the First Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, 31 Years After Its Debut in New York
Frederique van der Wal, Beverly Peele, Angelika KallioCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty (3)
Before the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show became the spectacle it is now known to be, the lingerie showcase was a small event that first took place at The Plaza Hotel in New York City on Aug. 1, 1995. There were no million-dollar bras, glittery runways or over-the-top angel wings, but the show was buoyed by big-name models of their day, including Beverly Peele, Frederique van der Wal, Natane Adcock and Veronica Webb, who set the tone for the likes of Gisele Bündchen, Tyra Banks, Adriana Lima, Heidi Klum and more, who became synonymous with the brand.
As the famed lingerie maker prepares for another epic show today — starting at 4:30 p.m. PT and available to stream on YouTube, as well as across Victoria’s Secret’s social media channels — check out these vintage photos from the very first Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show below.
Related: Victoria’s Secret Announces Lineup of All-Women Musical Performers for 2026 Fashion Show
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Heaven SentVeronica WebbCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
Though there were no Angels yet, Victoria Webb looked heavenly in a champagne spaghetti strap dress while backstage at the Plaza.
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Model WalkVeronica WebbCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
A known face for brands such as Revlon, Versace, Chanel and more, Webb hit the catwalk with ease.
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She’s SuperBeverly PeeleCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
Like a real pro, Beverly Peele made this chaotic dressing room candid look like a high-paid campaign photo as she prepared for the show.
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Fashion KillerBeverly PeeleCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
A casual weekend look? Peele tied a sweatshirt around her waist to accent her bustier ensemble.
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In Living ColorBeverly PeeleCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
In probably the closest look to what would eventually hit the Victoria’s Secret runway, she struck a pose in a one-piece teddy and kimono-inspired coverup.
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Color BlockNatane AdcockCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
Natane Adcock modeled a more covered-up look with the same Japanese-inspired motif.
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Tapped OutNatane AdcockCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
She also walked in a navy silk bralette and shorts combo, with lace accents.
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Setting the ToneFrederique van der WalCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
With her hair in rollers, Frederique van der Wal fueled up with a cuppa before making her way down the runway.
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Lady in RedFrederique van der WalCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
She later strutted the catwalk in a bright red nightgown with gold embellishments.
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Golden GirlFrederique van der WalCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
Van der Wal also wore a gleaming gold bra with high-waisted bottoms and a long bathrobe to complete the look.
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Pretty in PinkMagdalena WrobelCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
Magdalena Wrobel put her best foot forward while posing in this silky magenta gown during the show.
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Just GirlsCatherine McCord and model Ingrid SeynhaeveCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
Catherine McCord and Ingrid Seynhaeve made “model off duty” look like a million bucks backstage.
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Purple ReignCatherine McCordCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
And McCord’s shiny strands were an early prototype for what would eventually be that signature Angel bombshell blowout.
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Cute and CozyCatherine McCordCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
She modeled this classic bra and panty set with a coordinating bathrobe.
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She BangsAngelika KallioCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
Angelika Kallio brought some attitude to her walk, as she modeled a pink and black bralette and slip.
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Sporty SpiceAngelika KallioCredit: Ron Galella Collection/Getty
And she gave off major Lara Croft vibes while rocking a sporty gray set, paired with black boots, as well as matching gloves and dark sunglasses.
Source: Entertainment
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