Kylie Jenner Sparks Outrage with $50 Million Victoria's Secret Fantasy Bra Debut
Fans criticize the brand's choice to feature the reality star in the iconic diamond-encrusted bra, calling the decision 'unacceptable' and a 'slap in the face' to veteran models.
The 2026 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in Culver City, California, ignited significant fan backlash following Kylie Jenner's surprise runway debut, during which she wore the brand's $50 million Fantasy Bra. This marked the first time the bra, valued at $22 million for its centerpiece yellow diamond and adorned with 4,410 other natural diamonds, was featured on the runway since 2018. Jenner became the first non-Angel to model the famed piece of lingerie.
Critics took to social media to express their disappointment, with many calling for the show to be 'canceled.' One widely shared sentiment stated, 'Victoria Secret truly out of creativity. Most expensive and yet the most basic. And a kardashian/jenner to cheapen it more.' Another user questioned the selection, asking, 'Out of literally anyone ever why the F**K did they put the fantasy bra on Kylie Jenner.'
The backlash extended to accusations that the brand lacked originality and that Jenner's involvement cheapened the iconic item. Fans noted that previous wearers of the Fantasy Bra included supermodels such as Gisele Bundchen, Heidi Klum, Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Candice Swanepoel. Comparisons were made to Jenner's sister, Kendall Jenner, who did not walk in the show, with one user joking, 'kendall didn't answer so they had to call kylie jenner instead.'
Victoria's Secret chief creative officer Adam Selman defended the decision in an interview with Vogue, explaining that Jenner was chosen for her broad cultural impact. 'Kylie really extends beyond fashion, beyond culture, beyond TV, beyond one singular thing,' Selman stated. 'That's the exact same thing that we do. Like, the show is so big, it's true entertainment, and I think that she is a great catalyst for that.' He added that the show's theme was 'fandomonium,' and pairing the Fantasy Bra with an 'unexpected talent who has a massive following and massive cultural impact' was intended to be joyful and surprising.
The bra itself, designed by Jacob Arabo, is reportedly made entirely of gold and diamonds with no fabric, presenting unique challenges for fit and movement.
The show also featured runway appearances by Gigi Hadid, Bella Hadid, Adriana Lima, Elsa Hosk, Barbara Palvin, Candice Swanepoel, Alessandra Ambrosio, Vittoria Ceretti, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Irina Shayk, and Ashley Graham. Musical performances included sets by Megan Thee Stallion, Katseye, Megan Moroney, and Tate McRae. A notable moment was the debut of Victoria's Secret's newest Angel, Solange Omon, discovered through the brand's streaming series.
Amidst the controversy surrounding Jenner's appearance, television presenter Maura Higgins also attended the event, opting for a white latex corset, matching leggings, and stilettos. Higgins, 35, who is currently appearing on Dancing With The Stars, wore her brunette hair in a voluminous style and posed for pictures at the event, drawing attention for her fashion choice.
Sources
- www.dailymail.com - Maura Higgins gives Victoria's Secret Angels a run for their money as she arrives at the 2026 fashion show in racy white latex look
- www.dailymail.com - Maura Higgins gives Victoria's Secret Angels a run for their money as she arrives at the 2026 fashion show in racy white latex look