Ashley Graham's Victoria's Secret debut sparks mixed reactions over body diversity

The 36-year-old model took the runway in New York City on Tuesday, marking Victoria’s Secret's return to the catwalk after a six-year break. Known for promoting body positivity, Graham showcased her curves in a black bodysuit, sheer robe, and gold-embellished wings, as reported by People.

American model Ashley Graham at the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Photo courtesy of Graham's Instagram

Social media reactions were split. Some fans praised her, with one Instagram user commenting that she’s "paving the way" for body diversity. However, others expressed disappointment, with one fan stating a preference for the brand's past focus on thinner models.

One user commented: "Sorry, but I prefer the old VS show with thin models," while another criticized the brand's inconsistency, pointing out: "It's hypocritical for a company that once let go of Barbara Palvin for being 'too curvy' to now promote plus-size models."

One supporter on X defended Graham, commenting: "People are upset that Ashley Graham walked, but if she were thin, it would be a different story."

Graham herself shared her excitement with People about representing curvy women on the runway, despite initially hesitating due to Victoria’s Secret’s history of not supporting plus-size women. She decided to participate after learning of their commitment to size inclusivity.

"When I talked to the head of Victoria's Secret, they assured me their plan is to have extended sizes. I said yes so that more women could see themselves represented on the runway, something we didn’t see during Fashion Month," she said.

Victoria's Secret, which debuted its runway show in 1995, faced backlash in 2018 when its former chief marketing officer, Ed Razek, excluded transgender and plus-size models, calling the show a "fantasy." His comments led to his resignation in 2019 and the show's cancelation, according to Daily Mail.

Since then, the brand has made efforts to embrace diversity, featuring models like Valentina Sampaio, their first transgender model, and larger models in its campaigns.