Victoria’s Secret once stood as the quintessential name in lingerie — a brand that, for decades, defined how millions of women around the world thought about underwear, bras, and sensual apparel. Over time, however, perceptions have shifted dramatically. What was once a dominant cultural force — from ubiquitous mall storefronts to televised fashion spectacles — is now, for many consumers, a brand with a complicated legacy: nostalgic yet problematic, still familiar yet increasingly irrelevant to today’s lingerie-savvy shoppers.
In this article, we’ll explore the modern perception of Victoria’s Secret from multiple angles — including product quality, design and aesthetics, fit and sizing, customer service, cultural relevance, and its place in an evolving lingerie market.
1. From Mall Staple to Mixed Reputation
For many people coming of age in the 1990s and early 2000s, Victoria’s Secret was the go-to destination for underwear and bras. The brand’s bold advertising, glamorous fashion shows, and legendary roster of supermodels (“Angels”) cultivated an aura of accessible luxury that few competitors could match.
But today, that dominance has waned. Critics argue that the brand’s cultural hold — once symbolized by glamorous events and supermodel campaigns — has given way to a brand that simply doesn’t resonate as strongly with modern consumers. Unlike before, Victoria’s Secret no longer occupies the same cultural pedestal, partly because the market has exploded with alternative brands that emphasize body positivity, inclusivity, and diverse expressions of femininity that contrast sharply with Victoria’s Secret’s legacy.
Many customers now view Victoria’s Secret as less relevant, less exciting, and less reflective of modern values — especially among communities who prioritize empowerment, diversity, and individual style over mass-market glamour.
2. Quality and Craftsmanship: Perception vs Reality
One of the most common criticisms — shared by long-time customers and new buyers alike — revolves around product quality.
Quality Decline Over Time
A frequent complaint from shoppers is that the quality of Victoria’s Secret’s lingerie has dropped significantly compared to earlier years. Many customers report that:
Panties and thongs feel flimsy or fall apart after just a few washes. Bras do not last as long as they once did, and sometimes feel cheaply constructed. Materials seem thinner and less durable than competitors at similar price points.
These frustrations are echoed globally — from online reviews to social media discussions — and suggest that for some consumers, the brand’s product quality does not match its price tag.
Still Loved by Some
That said, not all feedback is negative. Some customers report that they still find pieces they like — especially when items are on sale or clearance. There are also fans who feel that certain lines (such as the PINK collection or specific sporty pieces) offer comfort and everyday wearability comparable to other mass-market brands.
So while quality concerns are widespread, the experience can vary significantly based on the product line, material, and expectation.
3. Fit and Sizing: A Source of Frustration
One of the most persistent complaints about Victoria’s Secret — shared by many lingerie enthusiasts and reviewers — is related to fit and sizing practices.
Fit and Sizing Issues
Customers frequently describe issues such as: Inconsistent sizing, where the same size from different collections feels very different. Bras that run small or uncomfortably tight, even when the customer is properly measured. Staff members who, intentionally or not, suggest incorrect sizes, leading to ill-fitting garments.
For many women who prioritize functionality and fit over fashion, this is a deal-breaker. In a lingerie market where brands like Aerie, Lounge, and boutique designers offer varied sizing and more precise fit guidance, Victoria’s Secret risks losing customers who have had better experiences elsewhere.
4. Customer Service and Purchasing Experience
Another theme in recent feedback — independent of product quality — is customer service:Some reviewers report slow or unhelpful responses from customer support. Others note issues with orders — such as missing items, difficulty processing returns, or inconsistent shipping experiences.
These experiences contribute to a perception that the brand’s service infrastructure has not kept pace with consumer expectations, especially in an era where online shopping has become the norm and customer experience is a key differentiator.
5. Aesthetic and Design: Then and Now
In its heyday, Victoria’s Secret’s aesthetic was synonymous with glamour, sex appeal, and aspirational femininity. For many shoppers, those iconic styles are irreplaceable memories — wardrobes filled with silky pieces and fashion show fantasies.
Now: Mixed Reaction
Modern perceptions of the brand’s design are polarized: Some shoppers appreciate that the brand still produces visually attractive pieces, especially within promotional or discounted collections. Others feel that new designs lack distinctiveness, appear generic, or rely on trends that don’t feel meaningful or empowering.
In a crowded marketplace where smaller brands often focus on unique, thoughtful design, Victoria’s Secret’s mainstream offerings can seem uninspired by comparison.
6. Cultural Legacy and Controversy
Victoria’s Secret’s cultural legacy is complex. Over the years, the brand has been criticized — and sometimes fiercely — for its lack of inclusivity and marketing that emphasized narrow beauty standards. Two notable flashpoints include: Public backlash over campaigns perceived as promoting unrealistic body ideals. Controversies tied to its fashion show and leadership decisions that failed to reflect broader diversity.
Although the brand has made some efforts to evolve — including leadership changes and revisiting its sexy roots with a more empowered framing — these controversies have left a lasting impression on some consumers.
7. Alternatives and Market Shifts
Perhaps the clearest indicator of Victoria’s Secret’s shifting place in lingerie culture is the sheer number of alternatives available to shoppers today.
More Choices, More Voices
Consumers now choose from: Body-positive and inclusive brands that celebrate diverse shapes and identities. Boutique designers offering artisanal quality and unique aesthetics.
Everyday comfort brands that prioritize fit and longevity over fashion statements.
These alternatives attract customers who feel underserved by mainstream brands like Victoria’s Secret, or who simply want lingerie that reflects their values and lifestyle more authentically.
Conclusion: The Brand at a Crossroads
Victoria’s Secret remains one of the most recognized names in lingerie. But the modern conversation around the brand reflects evolving expectations — of quality, fit, service, and representation — that Victoria’s Secret is still striving to meet.
For many consumers, the brand’s golden era is a nostalgic memory rather than a living reality. Today, shoppers are more informed, more discerning, and have choices that better align with their needs. Whether Victoria’s Secret can fully reclaim relevance in this landscape — or if its legacy will remain just that — is a question that continues to unfold.
