In a stunning twist of fate, Doutzen Kroes has returned to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway exactly ten years after her presumed final walk. This moment is not just a comeback; it’s a testament to her resilience and transformation over the years. With genuine disbelief, Kroes expressed, “I cannot believe it’s been 10 years—I had to look it up! Where did the time go?” This sentiment resonates deeply in an industry notorious for its fleeting nature, especially for models who often find themselves grappling with changing beauty standards and the relentless passage of time.
At 39, Kroes embodies a refreshing perspective on aging in the fashion world, where the pressure to maintain youthfulness can be overwhelming. “I’m getting wrinkles here and there,” she candidly admits, championing a philosophy of self-acceptance amidst an environment perpetually focused on physical perfection. Her journey involves embracing the inevitable changes that come with age, stating, “I gave up the fight! I want to see beauty in everything.” This empowering ideology underscores a growing movement in the fashion industry that promotes self-care and authenticity, challenging the stereotypical notions of beauty that often dominate the narrative.
Transformation Beyond the Runway
With nearly two decades in the modeling industry, Kroes reveals a profound understanding of her identity that extends far beyond her career. “I’ve learned that work is not who I am. I am not my job,” she asserts, conveying a sense of internal growth stemming from years of self-reflection. For Kroes, her work is merely a complement to her life, something she finds joy in, rather than the sole definition of her being. This shift in perspective resonates with many who navigate the complexities of professional identities, especially within high-pressure environments like fashion.
Kroes is not alone in her return; she joins an illustrious group of veteran Angels, including Adriana Lima, Tyra Banks, and Behati Prinsloo, among others. Their collective presence signifies not only nostalgia but also a commitment to infuse the Victoria’s Secret brand with a sense of evolution and modernization. The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, set to air on October 15, promises to be a spectacular celebration of past and present, reflecting the shifting tides of the fashion industry.
As Victoria’s Secret embarks on a journey toward modernity, it seeks to redefine what it means to be a beauty icon in today’s world. Kroes’s return serves as a symbolic bridge between the brand’s storied past and its future aspirations. The brand’s willingness to welcome back familiar faces speaks volumes about its intention to evolve while honoring its history. By embracing both the new and the nostalgic, Victoria’s Secret aims to resonate with a diverse audience who appreciates beauty in all its forms.
Doutzen Kroes’s return is not merely about the runway; it’s a narrative of growth, acceptance, and the pursuit of beauty in its most genuine form. As she steps back into the spotlight, her story becomes part of a broader dialogue about what it means to age gracefully in an industry that is continually reshaping its standards.