Victoria’s Secret

In 2018, the once-revered Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was canceled. Speculation suggested this was due to sluggish sales, allegations of sexism, and a lack of diversity within the show. But were these the real reasons?

Investigations revealed that Victoria's Secret had a wealth of hidden secrets, concealed from the press. At the time, rumors swirled about grooming, lewd behavior, and sexual misconduct within the company. However, no concrete evidence was ever produced to confirm these claims. The damage to the brand seemed irreversible. Or was it?

Les Wexner, the former CEO of Victoria's Secret, was reported to have close ties with Jeffrey Epstein, who acted as his personal money manager. Allegedly, Epstein used Victoria's Secret as a front for his sex trafficking network. Victims such as Alicia Arden came forward, speaking about how Epstein lured her into his hotel room under the false pretense of being a "Victoria's Secret talent scout," intending to take advantage of her. Meanwhile, the friendship between Epstein and Wexner began to develop, further tarnishing the brand's name. Questions arose about why Wexner maintained both a friendship and a business relationship with Epstein despite these allegations. Was there a chance that Wexner knew what was happening? Was he involved?

After much speculation, Wexner finally cut ties with Epstein in 2007, following Epstein's 2006 arrest for soliciting a minor for prostitution. By then, up to 80 cases of sexual assault or rape had been reported against Epstein. Wexner ended their friendship only after these allegations became public.

A year after Epstein's death, Wexner stepped down from his position at Victoria's Secret. The brand was then taken over by Jan Singer, who recognized the crisis it faced. In an effort to shift public perception, she initiated a rebrand, aiming to phase out outdated ideals and promote inclusivity. Today, Victoria's Secret strives to represent diversity, different body types, and a more positive body image.

But questions remain: How can women feel empowered wearing a brand once used to exploit them? Will Victoria's Secret ever regain its former popularity? And does the brand need to distance itself entirely from the secrets of its past?

© Scientific American