Sometimes I wonder if there’s any other profession that stirs up as much emotion as being a Victoria’s Secret model. It’s probably one of those phenomena that’s hard to fully understand from the outside.
The road to the runway: dreaming of Victoria’s Secret
Just mention this brand’s “angels” and a flood of associations instantly comes to mind. Luxury, the spotlight’s glow, international fame. People see it as the pinnacle of a modeling career—but why this brand in particular?
It’s probably connected to the whole spectacle they create around their shows. Those wings, those million-dollar costumes, those music stars. All of this makes the Victoria’s Secret runway more than just a fashion show. It’s an event watched by millions of people around the world.
A career with this brand means not only a high salary, but also a ticket to the world of haute couture and collaborations with the most renowned photographers.
Models who make it there often become the faces of other luxury brands. Gisele Bundchen, Adriana Lima, Candice Swanepoel—these names are recognized even by people who aren’t particularly interested in fashion. This shows the scale of this brand’s influence on the industry.
In this article, you’ll find information about what it takes to become a Victoria’s Secret model. What are the requirements, how does the casting process work, and how long does it all take? I’ll also talk about what happens after signing the contract and what challenges models face in this job.
I won’t lie – this isn’t an easy path. But for some people, it’s worth trying, even if the chances seem minimal.
Requirements and expectations for Victoria’s Secret models
Have you ever wondered what really lies behind the glittering Victoria’s Secret shows? Those famous Angels are anything but random choices.
Height is fundamental—at least 175 cm, though most are around 180 cm. This is non-negotiable. Body proportions must meet very specific standards that… well, aren’t always officially stated. Bra size is usually between 32A and 36C. Waist should be slim, hips proportionate.
The age of the candidates is another issue. Officially, the range is 18-30, but most start their careers before turning twenty. After thirty? It’s very rare for someone to become a new Angel.
Appearance goes far beyond just body measurements. The skin must be practically flawless, hair strong and shiny, teeth perfect. It may sound harsh, but that’s the reality of this industry.
Skills are not just about walking the runway. You need to know how to pose for photos, handle different clothing styles, and… yes, be photogenic. It may sound strange, but not every beautiful person looks good in pictures.
Personality matters too. Confidence is essential, but not arrogance. Professionalism, punctuality, and the ability to work as part of a team are key. Media training is becoming increasingly important—after all, these models are brand ambassadors.
Lifestyle? Highly disciplined. Diet often means working with a nutritionist, eating regular meals, and avoiding alcohol before shoots. Physical activity is part of everyday life—gym, yoga, pilates, sometimes boxing. Some even train twice a day.
Unwritten industry rules also say to avoid controversy and maintain a positive image on social media. It’s no longer just about being a model—it’s about being an influencer at the same time.
Recruitment process: castings and modeling agencies
What does the path to becoming a Victoria’s Secret Angel really look like? This question crosses the mind of anyone considering a modeling career. Although the brand has undergone significant changes recently, the recruitment process remains a source of fascination.
The first step is choosing a modeling agency. Without this, there’s virtually no chance of reaching bigger brands. Agencies like IMG Models or Elite Model Management have direct contacts with Victoria’s Secret. Keep in mind that these top agencies are extremely selective—they might accept only one person out of a thousand applications.
Portfolio is essential. Professional photos are expensive, but it’s a necessary investment. You need a variety of shots—portrait, full body, and lingerie. Some people think phone photos are enough. That’s a mistake that immediately disqualifies you.
Castings take place mainly in New York and Los Angeles. The agency submits its models, but the final decision rests with the brand’s team. The process takes months—first a pre-casting, then callbacks, and finally a lingerie fitting. The stress is immense, and the competition is ruthless.
Working with an agency means giving up 20% of your earnings, but without them, it’s simply impossible.
A contract with Victoria’s Secret has different levels. Not everyone becomes an “Angel” right away. It often starts with smaller campaigns or catalog shoots. A full Angel contract is the big league—only a handful of people in the world achieve that.
For beginners, one piece of advice – focus on the basics. Good fitness, healthy skin, a professional attitude. The rest is a matter of luck and genetics, unfortunately.
Tips for aspiring angels
Someone might think that the path to the Victoria’s Secret runway is just luck and good genes. But the truth is more complex.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that the fashion industry requires constant self-improvement. It’s not just about your appearance. Of course, physical fitness does matter—regular workouts, a balanced diet, and enough sleep. These are the basics that every model needs to master.
But what about your mindset? That’s where the real work begins. Confidence isn’t something you either have or don’t have. It’s a skill you can develop. Some people learn it in front of the mirror, others work with psychologists. Everyone has to find their own way.
Social media have become a second home for aspiring models. Instagram, TikTok—they’re not just for fun. They’re essential work tools. But beware of the pitfalls. It’s easy to get lost chasing likes and followers. Building an authentic image matters more than artificial perfection.
I sometimes see young people thinking that having a good online profile is enough. They’re wrong. The fashion industry is, above all, about networking, professionalism, and punctuality. You need to know how to work with photographers, stylists, and other models. This is not a job for introverts—unless someone is really willing to work on it.
Challenges? Oh, there are plenty. Constantly comparing yourself to others can take a real toll on your mind. Rejection at castings is an everyday reality. Some people just can’t handle the pressure. And that’s perfectly normal—not everyone is cut out for this life.
However, those who persevere often say the same thing. The key is to treat every “no” as a lesson, not a failure. Developing other skills—perhaps acting, dancing, or foreign languages. All of this can come in handy.
One final observation. The best models are those who remember that it’s just a job. Important, beautiful, but still a job. It doesn’t define the whole person.
From Dream to Reality: A Summary of the Journey to Becoming a Victoria’s Secret Model
The path to becoming a Victoria’s Secret model is one of the most demanding journeys in the fashion world. Sounds like a fairytale, right? But behind it all lies a tremendous amount of hard work.
Candidates must meet specific requirements—appropriate height, proportions, but also confidence and charisma. It’s not just about looks. In fact, after years of observing this industry, one could say that personality often makes the difference.
The recruitment process consists of several stages. First, there are castings, then test shoots, and finally, the final decisions. Each step eliminates more candidates. Sometimes I think it’s a bit like a race—only a few make it to the finish line.
Practical tips are fairly obvious, though not always easy to put into practice. Regular workouts, taking care of your skin, working with photographers. But the most important thing is probably building your portfolio and network. Without that, it’s hard to break through.
The benefits of achieving this goal are obvious – prestige, money, recognition. Victoria’s Secret remains one of the most recognizable brands. Although they have been changing recently, they are trying to keep up with the times.
Key takeaway? Determination and patience. Most aspiring models give up too soon. Those who persevere have a chance at success—becoming a Victoria’s Secret model. Not everyone, of course, but the opportunity is there.
Every great goal begins with the first step. Maybe it’s worth a try?