Has Victoria’s Secret Lost Its Status?

Which company is your go-to for lacey undergarments? For years, Victoria’s Secret has been the fashion fave of women around the world with VS Angels coveted as personified perfection. However, consumers are beginning to point out flaws in Victoria’s Secret’s sizing format as well as its campaign archetypes.

The overtly provocative ads by Victoria’s Secret are meant to be sexy and alluring, but to whom are they directed? Their attempts seem to be targeted at men rather than women. The Odyssey points out that “the advertisements look like they can be put into Playboy Magazine, which specifically caters to men.”

Issues with Victoria’s Secret’s products don’t end with their ads. Consumers find it unfair that their sizing is not inclusive of all body types. Some bras only go up to size D, leaving some women empty-handed when it comes to larger options. Other issues, like the fact that underwear sizes only go up to size XL, which is a size 16, is not inclusive to plus sized women any larger than size 24.

Other brands seem to have taken note of public demand and are catering to their needs. Aerie, a branch of American Eagle, abolished retouched photos and set its models in more casual, relatable settings. The company’s statement was met with enthusiasm. Huffington Post reports that Aerie’s sales increased by 20 percent in 2015 when the ads were launched.

For some, it’s worth ditching Victoria’s Secret and moving on to other, more inclusive brands. With athleisure taking its official place in the fashion world, loungewear is produced by a growing number of companies every year. With so many more cheaper, more inclusive options, PINK, Victoria’s Secret’s collection based on daily and loungewear, may take a hit in the coming months.

However, recent reports show the brand isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Though some fans are putting up a fight for inclusivity, Victoria’s Secret sales continue to soar. Between 2014 and 2015, the company increased sales profits from $5.7 billion to $6.1 billion. In addition, Business Insider points out that Victoria’s Secret still holds 62 percent of the lingerie market.

Though Victoria’s Secret products may dominate the industry, that doesn’t necessarily mean the trend will continue. The world is changing and women are fighting for body positivity. Victoria’s Secret may have to change its stagnant ad campaigns and take a serious look at its message before it’s ready to compete in the modern world.