Imagine strutting down a runway with 50 pounds strapped to your back—Bella Hadid turned that challenge into a stunning spectacle at the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, proving once more that she's not just a supermodel, but a force of grace under pressure. This eye-opening moment has everyone buzzing, but here's where it gets controversial: some folks online claimed she looked like she was struggling, sparking debates about body image and the demands we place on fashion icons. And this is the part most people miss—the real story behind the wings that made her shine.
During the high-profile event on Wednesday, Bella clapped back at her critics in the most elegant way possible, reminding fans via her Instagram Story that those angelic wings weren't just for show. 'Ok we’re not going to pretend these wings weren’t 50 pounds but HOW BEAUTIFUL,' she posted, flipping the narrative from struggle to triumph. For beginners wondering about Victoria’s Secret, it's a legendary lingerie brand known for its glamorous fashion shows that have featured top models for decades, often pushing boundaries with elaborate costumes and performances. In this case, Hadid's final walk wasn't your typical sashay; she gracefully held onto the straps of her massive white angel wings, which were crafted from petal-like fabric, and even slowed her pace slightly to maintain balance. Yet, she kept her expression flawless and beamed with smiles as Tate McRae's upbeat track 'Sports Car' blasted in the background, turning a potential setback into pure runway magic.
To give you a fuller picture, Hadid's look was a masterpiece: she closed the show in a pristine white lingerie ensemble adorned with silver fringe, all topped off by those breathtaking wings. Earlier in the night, as singer Karol G belted out her hit 'Ivonny Bonita,' Bella dazzled in a fiery all-red lingerie set, complete with a flowing sheer train that added an extra layer of drama. It's moments like these that highlight how Victoria’s Secret shows combine fashion, music, and performance art, creating unforgettable spectacles that challenge models physically and artistically.
Bella wasn't alone in stealing the spotlight; the runway was packed with stars and rising talents. Her sister Gigi Hadid joined the lineup, alongside influencers like Alex Consani, Angel Reese, Iris Law, Emily Ratajkowski, Barbie Ferreira, and Quenlin Blackwell. Even seasoned veterans made memorable appearances, including Candice Swanepoel, Adriana Lima, Lily Aldridge, and Alessandra Ambrosio, all adorned with intricate, show-stopping wings of their own. The evening was elevated further by stellar performances from Missy Elliott, Madison Beer, and the group Twice, proving that the 2025 show was a celebration of diversity, talent, and bold creativity in the fashion world.
But let's get real: is it fair to criticize a model for showing the tiniest hint of effort in such a demanding setup? On one hand, supermodels like Bella are trained athletes who train rigorously for these events, turning potential weaknesses into strengths. On the other, it raises questions about unrealistic expectations in the industry—should we celebrate the human side of fashion, or keep idolizing perfection? What do you think: does Bella's response empower women by owning the challenge, or does it downplay the toll of such high-stakes performances? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you agree that fashion shows like this push boundaries, or is it time for more inclusivity? We'd love to hear your take and spark a conversation!
