Imagine the dazzling spectacle of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show making a triumphant comeback, with supermodels strutting under those iconic lights—it's the kind of event that captures imaginations worldwide. But here's the twist: one of its most legendary figures was conspicuously absent from the 2025 runway, leaving fans buzzing with questions. Why would Kendall Jenner, a staple of Victoria's Secret's glamorous history, skip out on this star-studded revival? Let's dive into the details and uncover what really went down at Steiner Studios in Brooklyn last Wednesday.
For those just tuning in, Victoria's Secret is a global lingerie brand famous for its annual fashion extravaganzas, where 'Angels'—elite models—showcase breathtaking outfits. This year's show marked its second year back after a hiatus, drawing massive attention. The lineup was packed with seasoned pros and exciting newcomers, but Kendall's absence stood out like a missing puzzle piece.
Among the radiant roster were veteran Angels like Candice Swanepoel, the stunning Hadid sisters Gigi and Bella, and the poised Jasmine Tookes, all bringing that signature Victoria's Secret allure. Fresh talent, such as Adut Akech, the athletic Angel Reese, and the bold Emily Ratajkowski, made their wings debut, adding a burst of new energy. Yet, Kendall Jenner—known for her close bond with the brand, having graced campaigns and walked alongside Gigi in past shows—was nowhere to be seen.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not the first time Kendall has chosen to sit out. Her last appearance on a Victoria's Secret runway was back in 2019, and she also skipped the 2024 comeback event. At 29 years old, she's clearly evolving beyond the high-stakes world of modeling. In a candid chat with Elle, she opened up about the intense anxiety that used to plague her before shows. Picture this: you're poised on the edge of the runway, heart racing, thinking, 'Just walk straight! Stay poised!' She explained how nerves would spike, especially if she spotted familiar faces in the crowd, forcing her to block everything out to stay focused. It's a relatable struggle for anyone who's ever faced performance pressure, like public speaking or a big presentation—those butterflies can feel overwhelming, right?
But here's where it gets controversial: has Kendall simply outgrown the runway, or is there more to her story? Recently, she's shifted gears, participating in just one show during Paris Fashion Week last month—for L'Oréal's empowering celebration of women's achievements. This suggests a deliberate pivot toward new horizons. In an interview with Vogue, she dropped a bombshell: 'I swear to God, I’m going to stop everything and just design homes. I’m not kidding.' Imagine trading the glare of spotlights for the creative calm of interior design—sketching dream spaces instead of posing for photos. It's a bold career U-turn that challenges our expectations of supermodels. Should icons like Kendall be confined to runways forever, or is it refreshing to see them chase personal passions? Some fans might argue she's abandoning her roots, while others cheer her for prioritizing happiness over fame.
So, what's next for Kendall? Will she bid farewell to the fashion world and embrace a life of home décor innovation? Only time will tell, but her choices raise intriguing questions about legacy and reinvention in the spotlight. What do you think—should Kendall return to the Victoria's Secret stage, or is her design dream a smart move? Do you agree with her about shifting careers, or do you believe supermodels owe it to their fans to keep strutting? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we'd love to hear your take!
