Model Anthi Fakidari made history by becoming the first Greek beauty to grace Victoria’s Secret runway in New York on Tuesday.
For the first time since 2018, the famed fashion show made its return with familiar faces like Tyra Banks, Gigi Hadid, Adriana Lima and Kate Moss.
In addition to the dazzling angel wings and the company’s signature lingerie, the event featured its first all-women lineup of performers, including Cher, Tyla and Lisa of Blackpink fame.
Greek model shares Victoria’s Secret runway with Moss
21-year-old Anthi Fakidari was born in Athens with roots in Crete and Trikala. She became a model by chance when her father took her one day to the set of Alpha TV where he worked as a cameraman. There she was approached for the first time and told that she could have a future in fashion.
Since then, she has split her time between Athens, Paris, Milan and most recently in New York where she walked the runway for Ralph Lauren, and has also attended shows for other top designers such as Giorgio Armani and Elie Saab. Ferrari recently chose her as the face of its global campaign.
Anthi Fakidari did not hide her excitement and made sure to share many moments from the backstage as well as from her catwalk on social media.
She made her debut along supermodel Kate Moss who was joined by her daughter Lila on the runway. Supporters praised the supermodel and said it felt like the show was back to its ’90s heyday with Kate’s stunning appearance – and many were excited about her daughter making her way down the catwalk as well.
The former editor-in-chief of Vogue Paris, Emmanuelle Alt was brought on board to style the 2024 show and it was her involvement in the show which persuaded Kate to take part for the first time.
The star told Vogue: “She’s one of my favorite stylists. Whatever she does, it’s gonna be cool. She’s got such a great eye, so I felt safe.”
Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show a trendsetter
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show has long held a significant place in the fashion industry. It has been known for setting lingerie and fashion trends, often introducing new designs, styles, and colors that influence the broader market.
The use of supermodels, often referred to as “Angels,” played a big role in transforming the models into celebrities and brand ambassadors. Their iconic wings became symbols of status and recognition in the fashion world.
As of May 2020, with over 1,070 stores, Victoria’s Secret remained the largest lingerie retailer in the United States.