
In this episode of Books in Dialogue, we explore Selling Sexy: Victoria’s Secret and the Unraveling of an American Icon by Lauren Sherman and Chantal Fernandez. This compelling narrative traces the journey of Victoria's Secret from a modest lingerie boutique to a cultural powerhouse that redefined beauty standards, amassing over $8 billion in annual sales at its peak.
We delve into the brand's influential marketing strategies, the creation of the iconic Angels, and the eventual decline amid shifting societal norms and controversies, including the complex ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
Join us as we discuss how a brand that once epitomized 'sexy' grappled with evolving definitions of femininity and inclusivity, offering insights into the broader implications for fashion and consumer culture.