Victoria's Secret controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2026
Victoria's Secret faces backlash over Romee Strijd's casting
Public backlash
Victoria's Secret faced fan criticism after Romee Strijd said she was left off the 2026 fashion show lineup and described dissatisfaction with how she was treated. The controversy centered on Strijd's statement that she was not included in the lineup and her expression of dissatisfaction with her treatment. Fans responded with criticism directed at the brand following her remarks.
Victoria’s Secret faced fan criticism after Romee Strijd said she was left off the 2026 fashion show lineup and described dissatisfaction with how she was treated.
Source excerpt
Fans have been quick to defend the runway veteran, criticising the brand for seemingly prioritising social media influencers over established talent.
The iconic lingerie brand is facing a wave of intense backlash after the former Angel revealed she was unceremoniously dropped from this year’s lineup.
"Kylie Jenner's whole face was created under anesthesia... Victoria's Secret turned down supermodels to let plastic-surgery Jenner get the most prized spot in their show," someone wrote.
2021
Shareholder complaint concerning leadership oversight
A shareholder complaint alleged that former leaders allowed an entrenched culture of misconduct and failed to respond adequately to alleged abuses, causing harm to the company and its value.
2020
Allegations concerning harassment and corporate culture
Media investigations and legal complaints alleged misogyny, bullying, harassment, discrimination and retaliation involving senior personnel and the company's leadership culture. The allegations contributed to reputational damage and leadership scrutiny.
2020
Sexual misconduct allegations reported at Victoria's Secret
Issue disclosure
A New York Times investigation reported allegations that female models and executives were bullied and harassed for decades at Victoria's Secret, describing an entrenched culture of misogyny. L Brands independent directors said the company had adopted stronger anti-harassment policies, hotline reporting and training, and expressed regret for instances in which it did not meet its objective.
Company response
Remediation — L Brands
In a statement, independent directors on the L Brands board said the company is making strides in ensuring a safe workplace, and it has in recent years adopted “more robust anti-harassment policies, hotline’ reporting, and training.”
Apology — L Brands
“We regret any instance where we did not achieve this objective and are fully committed to continuous improvement and complete accountability,” the directors said.
Source excerpt
In a statement, independent directors on the L Brands board said the company is making strides in ensuring a safe workplace, and it has in recent years adopted “more robust anti-harassment policies, hotline’ reporting, and training.”
“We regret any instance where we did not achieve this objective and are fully committed to continuous improvement and complete accountability,” the directors said.
New allegations of sexual misconduct have surfaced at Victoria’s Secret as the brand tries to remake its image after years of scandal and slumping sales.
2018
Controversy over casting comments
Chief marketing officer Ed Razek said the fashion show did not cast transgender or plus-size models because it was a fantasy. The remarks prompted widespread criticism and intensified debate about the company's representation standards.