In a stunning revelation that's shaking the fashion world, former Victoria's Secret models are speaking out about the intense pressure to coat themselves in heavy fake tan before hitting the iconic runway. The brand once synonymous with a specific, bronzed ideal of beauty is now facing scrutiny as its former stars reveal the behind-the-scenes reality.
The Orange Transformation
Multiple ex-Angels have described the dramatic transformation they underwent before each show. "We'd be sprayed so dark we barely recognised ourselves," one model confessed. The process involved multiple layers of artificial colouring, creating what some described as an "orange glow" that became the brand's signature look during its peak years.
Changing Tides in Fashion
The fashion industry's relationship with fake tan represents a broader conversation about beauty standards and diversity. For years, the heavily bronzed look was considered the pinnacle of glamour, but times are changing dramatically.
Recent years have seen a significant shift toward celebrating natural skin tones and diverse beauty. The modelling industry is increasingly embracing authenticity over artificial perfection, with many brands now preferring models who look like "themselves" rather than cookie-cutter versions of an outdated ideal.
Why Models Are Speaking Out Now
The timing of these revelations coincides with Victoria's Secret's own public transformation. After facing criticism for lack of diversity and outdated beauty standards, the company has been actively rebranding itself to appeal to modern consumers.
Current and former models feel empowered to share their experiences as the industry undergoes this significant cultural shift. Their stories highlight how far fashion has come - and how much further it still needs to go in embracing true diversity.
The Future of Runway Beauty
Today's fashion runways tell a different story. The heavy, uniform fake tan that once dominated high-fashion shows is being replaced by:
- Natural skin tones in all their variations
- Minimal, skin-like makeup
- Celebration of individual features
- Diverse representation across all skin types
This movement toward authenticity reflects changing consumer preferences and a broader cultural shift toward inclusive beauty standards that celebrate rather than conceal natural appearance.
